



Alexandrite: Emerald by Day, Ruby by Night

Sometimes described as "emerald by day, ruby by night," alexandrite is prized for its distinctive color shifting property, appearing green under natural light and purplish-red under indoor light. Natural alexandrite is a very rare variety of chrysoberyl and its chameleon-like effect comes from the unique way it absorbs light. It has very few inclusions but its size is usually quite small (less than 1.00 carat). Larger alexandrite gemstones are so scarce, finding one would result in a dramatic spike in its price (even more so than with diamonds!)

What is Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is fairly new in comparison to other gemstones, which have roots back to ancient times. It was first discovered in 1830 in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Because it reflected the colors of the Imperial Russia flag, it immediately peaked their interest. The Russians then named the gemstone "Alexandrite" after their newly come-of-age Czar, Alexander II.

The Russian deposit of Alexandrite was the most spectacular ever found, even to this day – but it didn't last forever. Today, alexandrite gemstones are mined in Sri Lanka, East Africa, and Brazil. And to make this highly valuable gemstone available at a lower cost, synthetic alexandrite was developed, creating a color-changing gemstone in a laboratory to mimic the same properties of its natural counterpart.

Alexandrite : Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl with a unique color change property. The gemstone will appear green under natural light and purplish-red under artificial light.

Ross-Simons' Alexandrite Jewelry Collection

Our alexandrite jewelry will have you mesmerized. Each alexandrite gemstone is selected to best express its color-changing abilities. Set in 18kt gold, often with complementing diamonds, our alexandrite pendant necklaces, earrings, and rings will make a beautiful and unique addition to your jewelry collection. And because of their rarity and everyday durability, they are a gorgeous option for bridal. Imagine all the attention you'll receive with a one-of-a-kind alexandrite engagement ring. If the alexandrite price isn't in your budget, we also offer a variety of alexandrites set in cost-effective sterling silver and also synthetic alexandrite pieces. Synthetic alexandrite offers the same shifting hues at a much lower cost because it is produced in laboratory, rather than mined from nature.

Ross-Simons Jewelry Presentation Box

Alexandrite Jewelry Care & Handling

Alexandrite is a relatively hard and durable gemstone, ranking 8.5 on Mohs' scale. It's tolerable of everyday conditions and fairly resistant to breakage. As long as the gemstone isn't fractured, it can be cleaned with steam and ultrasonic cleaners; however, warm soap water is the safest choice. When your alexandrite jewelry is not being worn, store it in its Ross-Simons presentation box.