Alexandrite is one of the world’s rarest and most fascinating gemstones — a “crystal of contrasts” famous for its remarkable colour change, appearing green in daylight and red in artificial light. A rare variety of chrysoberyl, it is a stone of prosperity, rebirth and regeneration. Alexandrite is believed to open intuition and metaphysical abilities, build a strong will and personal magnetism, and rebuild self-respect — supporting the renewal of both the inner and outer self. First discovered on 17 April 1834, it was named after the Russian prince (later Tsar) Alexander.
What Is Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is a rare colour-changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its extraordinary ability to shift colour with the light source makes it one of the most prized and collectible gemstones in the world. Long a favourite of Russian aristocrats, it is treasured as a stone of manifestation, joy and happiness.
Properties of Alexandrite
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Colour | Green in natural light, red in artificial light (also golden-yellow, violet-brown tones) |
| Appearance | Tabular, transparent crystals |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Source | Australia, Brazil, Myanmar, Ghana, Norway, Zimbabwe |
| Family | Chrysoberyl |
Benefits of Alexandrite
Alexandrite is valued in holistic and astrological tradition for a range of uplifting benefits:
- Confidence and self-worth — It strengthens self-worth and self-confidence, and releases outworn energy patterns.
- Emotional balance — A gentle emotional soother, it balances the emotional state and brings happiness and pleasure.
- Manifestation and success — Known as a stone of prosperity and manifestation, it is believed to bring happiness and success.
- Regeneration and rebirth — It supports internal and external renewal, rebuilding the inner and outer self.
- Intuition and imagination — It opens intuition and metaphysical abilities and stimulates dreams and the imagination.
- Spiritual growth — It balances the mental and emotional body and supports the path of spiritual development.
Alexandrite in Gem Therapy
In holistic and gem-therapy tradition, Alexandrite has long been associated with self-healing and overall wellbeing. It is traditionally believed to help highlight the root cause of imbalance, support the body’s natural equilibrium, and encourage a sense of renewal 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 in Vedic Astrology
Astrologically, Alexandrite is a gemstone for those of the Scorpio and Gemini zodiac signs. It has a remarkable ability to calm the malefic effects of Mercury and Mars. As a Mercury-associated stone, it is believed to enhance intelligence, wit, wisdom and purity of thought, and is considered a wonderful gift for strengthening the bond between spouses.
How to Wear Alexandrite
For best results, Alexandrite should be energized (Pran Pratishtha) before wearing. As a Mercury-associated stone, it is traditionally worn on a Wednesday, set in gold or silver, as a ring or pendant, while chanting its beej mantra. The ideal weight and metal should be confirmed by an astrologer based on your horoscope.
Mantra for Alexandrite
Chant the following beej mantra while wearing or worshipping the gemstone:
- “Om Draang Dreeng Draung Sah Budhaye Namah” — the Mercury (Budh) beej mantra.
Energization (Pran Pratishtha) of the Gemstone
At Astrokapoor, every gemstone is energized before it is dispatched, by experienced pundits and purohits.
The Energization Process
An auspicious day and Nakshatra are chosen based on the client’s name, date of birth and place of birth. A mat is placed facing East, North or North-East for the pooja. The gemstone is washed with holy Gangajal and Kumkum is applied. An incense stick is lit before the gemstone, marigold flowers are offered, and the appropriate mantra is chanted. With eyes closed, the purohit chants the client’s name and date of birth, completing the Pran Pratishtha. After this process, the gemstone is fully energized and can be worn directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is famous for its rare colour change — appearing green in daylight and red in artificial light. A rare variety of chrysoberyl, it is one of the world’s most prized and collectible gemstones.
Which zodiac signs should wear Alexandrite?
Alexandrite is astrologically suited to Scorpio and Gemini. It is believed to calm the malefic effects of Mercury and Mars and enhance intelligence and harmony.
Which planet does Alexandrite represent?
Alexandrite is associated with Mercury (Budh), and also helps calm Mars. As a Mercury stone, it is believed to enhance intelligence, wit and wisdom.
What are the benefits of Alexandrite?
Alexandrite builds confidence and self-worth, balances the emotions, brings happiness, success and prosperity, supports regeneration and renewal, and strengthens the bond between spouses.
What is the mantra for wearing Alexandrite?
The mantra is “Om Draang Dreeng Draung Sah Budhaye Namah” — the beej mantra of the planet Mercury (Budh).
Buy a Certified Natural Alexandrite
Given its rarity, always choose a certified, natural stone. Explore certified Alexandrite gemstones, or visit AstroKapoor’s office to buy loose Alexandrite at wholesale prices. Every gemstone is tested by our own gemologists, certified by government-approved laboratories, and energized before dispatch.
