Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl, which ideally shows a distinct colour change from green in fluorescent light or daylight to red in incandescent light. It is one of the scarcest and cherished of coloured stone among the Collectors due to its peculiar nature of exhibiting green in natural light and a reddish-purple under incandescent lighting. It is believed that it is been first to have found near River of Tokovaya in the emerald mines in Ural Mountains.
Similar to other precious stones. Alexandrite also emerges millions of years ago. Unlike many other stones this requires specific geological condition. The main composition of beryllium and the colouring agent Chromium are found in different types rocks the combination is very hard to come by making them the scarce stones. Sri Lanka is one of the finest producers of this remarkable stone along with Russia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Brazil, India, Burma, Zimbabwe, Zambia. Naleem Alexndrite largest alexandrite in the world weight at 112 ct Sold by famous gem Business Merchant Naleem from China fort, Beruwala Sri Lanka valued over staggering price of $100 Million
- Varieties: A very small amount of alexandrite shows a cat’s eye effect (chatoyancy).
- Sources: Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Soviet Russia, Brazil, Zimbabwe – Rhodesia, Burma.
- Toughness: Excellent
- History: Alexandrite received its name because it was discovered on the birthday of Czar Alexander II of Russia in 1830. Red and green are also the colours of the Russian Imperial Guard.
- Cuts & Uses: Alexandrite is usually faceted. Chrysoberyl cat’s eyes must be cut en cabochon to display a chatoyant effect.