Alexandrite

Item Description

Alexandrite is the color changing variety of Chryosberyl, and is one of the most valuable and soufht after gems in teh world. The first Alexandrite crystals and gems were discovered from Russia and was named in 1842 by Nils Adolf Erik Nordenskiold in honor of Czar Alexander II of Russia. This material is one of the few gems in the world that shows a color change, which is extremely rare in the gem world. The term "Alexandrite-type" color change is often used when a stone changes from a warmer hue i.e., pink to a cooler hue i.e., green or blue when expose to different light sources i.e., indoor lighting and sunlight. This "cushion" cut stone is from India, where some of the better Alexandrites are found these days. It shifts from a beautiful bluish-green color in outdoor light "in the shade" (not direct sunlight) to a greenish-yellow hue in incandescent lighting. The stone has nearly eye-clean clarity and would make a great addition to any rare gem suite, or set into jewelry. Keep in mind that Alexandrite is birthstone for June, so this would be a great gift idea for anybody with a birthday in that month. This gem is priced at $1,072.50 retail.