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Where is Alexandrite found?

Chrysoberyl variety

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Alexandrite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.

Where to find Alexandrite

Ural Mountains, Russia

Historically the most famous and original source, known for producing alexandrites with a very strong and distinct color change. Discovered in 1830.

Minas Gerais, Brazil

Significant producer of alexandrite, often with good color change, though sometimes less intense than Russian material. Found in pegmatites and alluvial deposits.

Sri Lanka (Ceylon)

Known for producing larger alexandrite crystals, often with a less pronounced color change, appearing more brownish-green to brownish-red. Found in gem gravels.

Andrahoy, Madagascar

A more recent source, producing alexandrites with a good color change, often with a bluish-green to purplish-red shift.

Tanzania

Various localities produce alexandrite, often with a good color change, sometimes with a slightly yellowish-green hue in daylight.

Collecting tips

  1. Light Source Observation. Always observe potential alexandrite under multiple light sources: natural daylight, fluorescent light, and incandescent light. The color change is the definitive characteristic.
  2. Hardness Test. Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than quartz (7) and topaz (8). This can help differentiate it from softer imitations.
  3. Specific Gravity. Its specific gravity (3.70-3.78) can be a useful diagnostic tool, especially for loose stones, to distinguish it from other gemstones.
  4. Pleochroism. Beyond the color change, alexandrite exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different crystallographic directions. This can be observed by rotating the stone.
  5. Inclusions. Examine for characteristic inclusions under magnification. While not always definitive, certain inclusion patterns can help identify natural alexandrite.

Quick Check

Color:
Green in daylight, red in incandescent light
Luster:
Vitreous
Streak:
White

Explore Alexandrite

Overview

Full guide to Alexandrite

Identification

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