Alexandrite

When it comes to this rare stone, the Russians do it better

Alexandrite, a rare form of chrysoberyl, is a seductive stone with a marvelous color change phenomenon. It shifts from green in daylight to red or mauve in incandescent light. Named after Czar Alexander II, upon whose birthday it was reportedly discovered in 1834, the most coveted material is found in the Urals of Russia. Sri Lanka is another traditional source, though it was upstaged in 1987, when the Hematita deposit in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais began producing material to rival Russia’s. As with emeralds, the quality discrepancy is a reflection of iron content; less iron translates to a finer color change, the most important factor in judging “alex.”

The changeling Alexandrite changes from green in daylight to red or mauve in incandescent light. Stones with a paucity of iron boast the most distinct color change, and subsequently the highest price.

Loose stone images provided by ICA; ring image provided by AGTA