Colour Change Alexandrite:
The Chameleon Gem
Is it red? Blue? Or maybe violet? With alexandrite, it all depends on the light — and that’s exactly why collectors are chasing it. One of nature’s rarest phenomena, this remarkable gem boasts a vivid colour shift that’s anything but subtle.
“There’s no other gemstone that transforms like alexandrite,” says Matthew Ely. “With a fine stone, it feels like you’re wearing two different gems at once. It’s mesmerising, and incredibly rare.”
What Makes Alexandrite So Special?
Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s, alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl named after Tsar Alexander II. Its signature? A dramatic colour change — shifting from emerald green or bluish-green in daylight to raspberry red or violet under incandescent light. Unlike other gems with subtle shifts, alexandrite’s transformation is bold, vivid, and unmistakable.
This unique phenomenon is caused by the way alexandrite absorbs light; a property shared by almost no other gemstone. It’s also June’s birthstone and the traditional gift for a 55th wedding anniversary.
What Makes Alexandrite So Special?
Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s, alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl named after Tsar Alexander II. Its defining feature is a dramatic colour change — shifting from emerald green or bluish-green in daylight to raspberry red or violet under incandescent light. Unlike other gems that subtly shift hues, alexandrite’s transformation is bold, vivid, and unmistakable.
The phenomenon is caused by the way alexandrite absorbs light, a property shared by almost no other gemstone.
Alexandrite is a birthstone of June and traditionally given for the 55th wedding anniversary.
The 4.21ct Brazilian Alexandrite Ring
One standout example? A custom 18ct white gold, diamond, and natural alexandrite ring, handmade for a Matthew Ely client. Its centrepiece — a remarkable 4.21ct cushion-cut Brazilian alexandrite — was the largest available in the world at the time of purchase.
The gem was set into a bespoke design featuring 36 precisely placed diamonds, a process that took over 50 hours of meticulous craftsmanship. The client’s story was just as unique: her lifelong fascination began when her mother gifted her an alexandrite as a child; a memory brought full circle with this extraordinary piece.
Custom Made: The 4.21ct Brazilian Alexandrite Ring
One standout example? A custom 18ct white gold, diamond, and natural alexandrite ring, handmade for a Matthew Ely client. Its centrepiece — a remarkable 4.21ct cushion-cut Brazilian alexandrite — was the largest available in the world at the time of purchase.
The gem was set into a bespoke design featuring 36 precisely placed diamonds, a process that took over 50 hours of meticulous craftsmanship. The client’s story was just as unique: her lifelong fascination began when her mother gifted her an alexandrite as a child; a memory brought full circle with this extraordinary piece.
How Rare is Alexandrite?
Natural alexandrite is among the rarest gemstones on earth. Fine stones with strong colour change are incredibly hard to find, especially over two carats.
Russian Alexandrite: The most prized for its intense colour shift.
Brazilian Alexandrite: Known for larger sizes with vivid colour change.
Sri Lankan & East African Alexandrite: Often softer in colour but still highly collectible.
The Smithsonian houses the world’s largest faceted alexandrite — a 65.7ct gem from Sri Lanka — while the largest Alexandrite from the Ural Mountains weighs about 30ct.
How Rare is Alexandrite?
Natural alexandrite is among the rarest gemstones on earth. Fine stones with strong colour change are incredibly hard to find, especially over two carats.
Russian Alexandrite: The most prized for its intense colour shift.
Brazilian Alexandrite: Known for larger sizes with vivid colour change.
Sri Lankan & East African Alexandrite: Often softer in colour but still highly collectible.
The Smithsonian houses the world’s largest faceted alexandrite — a 65.7ct gem from Sri Lanka — while the largest Alexandrite from the Ural Mountains weighs about 30ct.
Tips for Buying Alexandrite
When investing in alexandrite, look for:
Strong Colour Change: The most desirable stones shift dramatically between hues — ideally vivid green to red.
Clarity: Clean stones are rare and command a premium.
Origin & Certification: Always request documentation verifying natural origin and untreated status. Brazilian and Russian stones are particularly prized.
Gemstone Size: Fine-quality alexandrite over 1ct is considered rare; over 3ct, exceptional.
“Clients often ask why alexandrite commands such high prices,” says Ely. “It’s simple — scarcity, beauty, and that unmistakable colour shift you won’t find in any other gem.”
Tips for Buying Alexandrite
When investing in alexandrite, look for:
Strong Colour Change: The most desirable stones shift dramatically between hues — ideally vivid green to red.
Clarity: Clean stones are rare and command a premium.
Origin & Certification: Always request documentation verifying natural origin and untreated status. Brazilian and Russian stones are particularly prized.
Gemstone Size: Fine-quality alexandrite over 1ct is considered rare; over 3ct, exceptional.
“Clients often ask why alexandrite commands such high prices,” says Ely. “It’s simple — scarcity, beauty, and that unmistakable colour shift you won’t find in any other gem.”
Is it red? Is it blue? Wait… is it purple? Don’t worry, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. This custom made 4.21ct Natural Chrysoberyl Alexandrite ring has remarkable colour change properties.
