Alexandrite is a rare and precious gemstone, celebrated as the birthstone for July and the traditional anniversary stone for the 55th year of marriage. Because it is also associated with the planet Mercury, it is sometimes known as “Friday’s stone.” But Alexandrite’s true fame comes from its extraordinary colour change — appearing green in daylight and red under artificial light — a quality that has fascinated gem lovers since the moment it was discovered.
The Discovery of Alexandrite
Alexandrite was first discovered in the emerald mines near the Tokovaya River in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1830 — on the birthday of the young Prince Alexander II of Russia, after whom the stone is named.
The story of its discovery is a gem legend in itself. Miners collecting emeralds gathered some green stones that resembled emerald and carried them back to camp at the end of the day. But by the light of the campfire, the stones suddenly glowed a brilliant shade of red! Confused, the miners waited until morning — when, in daylight, the stones turned green once again. They realised they had discovered a mysterious new gemstone: one that changes colour with the light.
Alexandrite Meaning and Metaphysical Powers
Alexandrite is regarded as a powerful attractor of wealth, believed to open up one’s heart’s desire. It opens intuition and metaphysical abilities, creates a strong will and personal magnetism, and serves as a stone of regeneration — building self-respect and supporting the rebirth of both the inner and outer self. It centres and realigns the mental, emotional and spiritual bodies, brings joy, expands creativity, and stimulates the imagination and dreams.
Alexandrite in Gem Therapy
In holistic and gem-therapy tradition, Alexandrite has long been associated with renewal and overall wellbeing. It is traditionally believed to support the body’s natural balance, ease tension, and encourage regeneration and vitality.
These reflect traditional gem-therapy and holistic beliefs rather than established medical science. Gemstones are a complementary practice and are not a substitute for professional medical care.
Alexandrite Gemology
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Colour | Green in natural light, red in artificial light (also golden-yellow, blue tones) |
| Appearance | Tabular, transparent crystals |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Source | Australia, Brazil, Myanmar, Russia, Canada |
| Category | Oxide minerals |
| Lustre | Vitreous |
| Crystal structure | Orthorhombic |
| Mohs Hardness | 8.5 |
| Chemical formula | BeAl₂O₄ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is a rare colour-changing variety of chrysoberyl — green in daylight and red in artificial light. It is the July birthstone and the 55th wedding-anniversary stone.
Why does Alexandrite change colour?
Alexandrite’s unique structure absorbs light differently depending on the source, making it appear green in natural daylight and red under artificial (incandescent) light — the effect that made it famous.
Where was Alexandrite discovered?
Alexandrite was discovered in 1830 in the emerald mines near the Tokovaya River in Russia’s Ural Mountains, and was named after Prince Alexander II of Russia.
How hard is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite has a Mohs hardness of 8.5, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones — well suited for everyday jewellery.
Which birthstone is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is a birthstone for the month of July, and is also the traditional gemstone for the 55th wedding anniversary.
Buy a Certified Natural Alexandrite
Given its rarity, always choose a certified, natural stone with a certificate of authenticity. Buy online natural certified Alexandrite gemstones at wholesale prices from AstroKapoor. As Alexandrite is a powerful stone, always consult an experienced astrologer before wearing.
