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Alexandrite: Emerald by Day, Ruby by Night

Alexandrite showing red and green colors

Alexandrite is a beautiful gemstone that is an alternative to pearl for a June birthstone.

Named after the Russian tsar Alexander II, due to its discovery on the day he came of age, Alexandrite is a very scarce gem, especially in finer qualities.

The most sensational feature about this stone is its ability to change color.  Bluish-green in daylight, Alexandrite turns a soft shade of red, purplish-red or raspberry red in incandescent light. This unique optical characteristic makes it one of the most valuable gemstones.  This is why it is often called ”Emerald by day, Ruby by night.”

 Although Alexandrite is still considered a rarity, the stone rose in popularity again in 1987, when these beautiful gems were rediscovered in Brazil.

I had the pleasure of seeing my first Alexandrite recently, and would probably choose it over a pearl if June were my birth month.  Here at Colonial Jewelers, we have the ability to order some fine quality Alexandrites, so don’t hesitate to call with any questions.