ABOUT ALEXANDRITE

Alexandrite is a magical gemstone with transformative properties that has captivated its wearers for centuries.

The finest Alexandrite mine, nestled in the Ural Mountain region in Russia ceased operations after only a few decades of producing rough. Stones acquired from the Urals are still considered the finest in the trade and as a result any gems bearing Russian certificates of origin are highly prized.

While some Alexandrite is found in Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe they do not possess color-shifting properties as intense as the Russian variety. For years it seemed that the enamoring gems of the Czars were destined for the history books. However, in 1987 a new vein of Alexandrite was found in the Brazilian region of Hematita. Thanks to this remarkable find we are again able to indulge in these rare and cherished symbols of 19th century nobility.

Alexandrite is also a strongly pleochroic gem, which means it can show different colors when viewed from different directions. Typically, its three pleochroic colors are green, orange, and purple-red. However, the striking color change doesn’t arise from the gem’s pleochroism, but rather from the mineral’s unusual light-absorbing properties.

Because of its scarcity, especially in larger sizes, alexandrite is a relatively expensive member of the chrysoberyl family. It shares its status as a June birthstone with cultured pearl and moonstone.