Alexandrite
What is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl that displays a color change depending on the lighting conditions. It’s primarily found in Russia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. Alexandrite is often used as a gemstone and is popular for its unique color-changing ability.
Alexandrite is a rare and unique gemstone that changes color depending on the lighting conditions. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice for jewelry, especially rings and pendants.
| Chemical Classification | Inorganic - Oxide (Chrysoberyl) |
| Color | Changes from green in daylight to reddish-purple under incandescent light. |
| Streak | White |
| Luster | Vitreous. |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent. |
| Occurrence | Russia, Brazil, and Sri Lanka. |
| Formation | Found in granitic pegmatites and mica schists. |
| Diaphaneity | Transparent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Mohs Hardness | 8.5. |
| Specific Gravity | Approximately 3.73. |
| Diagnostic Properties | Color change under different lighting. |
| Chemical Composition | BeAl3O12 |
| Pleochroism | Strong; different colors can be observed when viewed from different angles. |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic (variety of Chrysoberyl) |
| Optical Properties | Biaxial (+) |
| Refractive Index | 1.741 - 1.760 |
| Birefringence | 0.008 - 0.010 |
| 2V angle | Measured: 85° to 90° |
| Dispersion | 0.014. |