Photo courtesy of Omi
Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite
'Emerald by day, ruby by night.'
- Mohs hardness
- 8.5
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Composition
- BeAl₂O₄ with Cr
- Colours
- Green in daylight, red under incandescent light
- Origins
- Russia (Ural Mountains - historic), Brazil, Sri Lanka
- Birthstone
- June
Alexandrite is chromium-bearing chrysoberyl that exhibits a dramatic colour-change under different light sources - green in daylight, raspberry red under incandescent. The strength of this change determines value.
Discovered in 1830 in Russia's Tsar Alexander era - the original deposit was nearly mined out within decades.
Treatments
What to know
- Generally untreated - synthetics and simulants are common; certification essential
Care & handling
How to wear it
- Excellent durability
- Ultrasonic and steam generally safe
Jewellery use
Setting the gemstone
High-jewellery rings and pendants. Always paired with a daylight + warm-light demonstration.
Same family