One of the most valued and sought after gemstones is the Alexandrite. Born in metamorphic conditions that bring together specific chemical elements to produce the mineral chrysoberyl, the gemstone has been valued by jewelers throughout the ages for its unique ability to change color from green to shades of red or very soft purple when exposed to daylight and incandescent light sources.
Chemical Name
Chrsoberyl
Chemical Formula
BeAl2O4
Specific Gravity
3.5 - 3.84
Moh's Hardness
8.5
Color
Varies from green, yellow, red, brown and slight purple
Alexandrite is valued for its scarcity and by the stones ability to change coloration. Russia is the source for most gem quality alexandrite and was named after the Russian Tsar Alexander II. With a rich folklore history, alexandrite was thought to impart wisdom, creativity and to strengthen a person's insight.
Listed on the Mohs scale of hardness as an 8.5, it is a perfect gemstone to design into high quality jewelry.
