Alexandrite Meaning and Properties (full guide)

Alexandrite was first unearthed in the Ural Mountains during the 19th century. And, this unique stone quickly captivated everyone with its ability to change colors, shifting from purplish-red in certain lights to blue and green in others. Its discovery coincided with Tsar Alexander II’s birthday, earning it a name as regal as its appearance.

The story of how Alexandrite was discovered is as intriguing as the stone itself.

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Workers at an emerald mine in the Ural Mountains found these stones among their usual haul of emeralds. At night, by the campfire, some of the stones revealed a deep red glow, only to return to their original green the next morning. This magical transformation led to the belief that these stones, later identified as alexandrite, contained something truly magical.

Reflecting the national colors of Imperial Russia, alexandrite soon became a symbol of the country’s grandeur.  Its unique color-changing property comes from a mix of chromium, which gives it its blue and green hues, and possibly titanium and iron, which might add the ruby red color.

In today’s guide, let’s talk in detail as to what alexandrite means.

Alexandrite stone meaning

Lifting your spirits:  This stone is a powerhouse when it comes to lifting your spirits and boosting your self-esteem. Alexandrite is said to help you grow emotionally, making it easier to handle your feelings and find joy in everyday life. If you’ve been feeling stuck or down on yourself, this gem can help you find a balance between your emotions and thoughts, leading to better decisions. It’s also great for opening your heart, making it easier to love and be loved, clearing the way for happiness and inner peace.

Encourages a positive self image: On an emotional level, alexandrite encourages a positive self-image and helps individuals appreciate the beauty of the world around them. It supports inner growth that reflects one’s maturation over time. For those seeking to find their center or connect with their earliest beginnings, alexandrite is considered a powerful ally by metaphysical practitioners.

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Inviting romance into your life:  It is said to have a knack for inviting romance and joy, especially for those who tend to be overly disciplined. This gem teaches us to remember our life’s purpose and roots, offering hope to those feeling lost or in despair. Its color-changing quality serves as a reminder that life is full of different perspectives and possibilities.

Alexandrite spiritual meaning

Alexandrite also looks out for your spiritual well-being. This stone is like a magnet for good vibes, drawing positive energy and opportunities your way. It works wonders in clearing your heart chakra, freeing your heart from any burdens and allowing you to love deeply and freely. But alexandrite aims even higher than this, cleansing your crown chakra too. This is all about connecting with the bigger picture and reaching new heights in your spiritual journey.

Alexandrite engagement ring meaning

Let’s talk about the special meaning and uses of an alexandrite engagement ring.

This is a gemstone that wasn’t known before, hidden within an emerald mine. It was a discovery that brought its finders incredible luck. And because of this, it’s said to symbolize good fortune, longevity, and positivity.

What makes alexandrite extraordinary, however, is its ability to change color, which is said to symbolize a bridge between the spiritual and physical realms.  This is the dual nature of our beings. This gem encourages balance and reminds us of our purpose and identity, offering a powerful tool for self-discovery and spiritual alignment.

Alexandrite zodiac sign

If you find yourself captivated by this particular gem, there’s a good chance it’s the perfect gem for you. This is particularly true for those born in June.

Being the birthstone for June, it’s great for Geminis. Known for their vibrant energy, Geminis are the life of the party, always ready with a clever quip, and are incredibly adaptable. This gemstone complements a Gemini’s natural strengths while also offering a bit of extra support in areas where they might struggle, such as making decisions. With it by their side, Geminis can feel their qualities being amplified, making it easier for them to navigate through life’s twists and turns.

Alexandrite price

This gem is renowned for its unique ability to change color, flipping from shades of green in daylight to reddish hues under incandescent light. Its rarity and fascinating color-shifting quality make it a sought-after piece for jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The pricing of alexandrite greatly depends on several factors, with the most significant ones being color change, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

A top-tier alexandrite that showcases a vivid color change and has clear visibility without blemishes or inclusions commands the highest prices. The more pronounced and dramatic the color shift, the deeper you’ll have to dig into your pockets.

Moreover, the size of the stone plays a critical role in its valuation. Larger pieces are exceedingly rare, which naturally bumps up their price. It’s not just about the size, though. The craftsmanship behind the cut of the gem also matters as it can enhance the color change effect, making the stone even more desirable.

In summary, the price of alexandrite can vary widely depending on its quality and size.

For alexandrites with noticeable color changes and good clarity, prices can start from a few hundred dollars per carat for smaller stones (under one carat). However, for larger, high-quality specimens with exceptional color change and clarity, prices can skyrocket to over $15,000 per carat.

NOTE:  It’s essential to understand that alexandrite’s rarity means that high-quality stones above a few carats are exceedingly rare and can fetch significantly higher prices, sometimes exceeding the upper range I mentioned, depending on the market and specific characteristics of the gemstone. These values are a general guideline, and actual prices can vary based on the gemstone market and individual sellers.

How to use alexandrite

Wear as jewelry:  Wearing alexandrite as jewelry is a great way to maximize its benefits. The close contact with your skin allows the stone’s energy to directly interact with yours, helping to align and heal. Necklaces, for instance, may help keep your heart open, while earrings promote enlightenment and a connection to higher consciousness. Bracelets, for instance, allow the gemstone’s pulse to match yours, fostering harmony and balance.

Home or office:  Incorporating alexandrite jewelry into your home or office can transform your space into a space of positivity and opportunity. This gem, as noted, encourages abundance and good luck, making it a perfect addition to spaces where decisions are made and creativity flows. Placing it in central or communal areas of your home ensures a welcoming atmosphere filled with good vibes, making your living space a sanctuary of happiness and prosperity.

Alexandrite properties

Alexandrite is a special kind of gemstone that belongs to the chrysoberyl family. And, what sets it apart from other gems is the mix of chromium, iron, and titanium inside it, which gives it a beautiful green color. This gem can look like an emerald or have a yellowish-green or brownish-green tint. The most valuable pieces tend to be those with vivid green colors that can change to a fiery red when exposed to certain lights, like candlelight.

The size of Alexandrite gems usually doesn’t go beyond five carats, and the bigger they are, the more they cost. Some of the largest gems are found in places like Sri Lanka and can weigh up to 60 carats. This gem is also really tough, scoring an 8.5 on the hardness scale, making it a durable choice for jewelry.

Where is alexandrite found?

Alexandrite can be found in several countries around the world. It was first discovered in Russia, where it’s known for its rich green color.  These initial findings near the Tokovaya River have set a high standard for alexandrite due to their intense and vibrant color changes. The geographical origin of an alexandrite significantly influences its color change properties, making the Russian alexandrites highly sought after.

Brazil has also emerged as a prominent source of alexandrite, where the stones tend to be larger in size. While the color change in Brazilian alexandrites may not be as pronounced as their Russian counterparts, they are esteemed for their size and clarity.

In Sri Lanka, alexandrites are discovered within the same regions as sapphires and rubies, nestled in the dense jungles. These stones typically exhibit a bluish-green shade in daylight, and while their color change might not be as dramatic, they possess a unique charm.

The African continent, particularly Zimbabwe and Madagascar, is known for its significant alexandrite deposits. The stones from these regions are primarily mined in areas close to emerald mines, contributing to the global diversity of alexandrite available.

Secondary Deposits

Secondary deposits of alexandrite include regions like India, where the gemstone is found in alluvial deposits within riverbeds. Although the Indian alexandrites may display the characteristic dual-color phenomenon, the intensity of their color change often does not match that of the stones from primary sources.

Tanzania, near Lake Manyara, is noted for its secondary alluvial deposits of alexandrite. The stones mined here share some similarities with the original Russian alexandrites, particularly in terms of color change, though they are generally smaller in size.

The value and rarity of alexandrite are deeply affected by its source. Stones from primary deposits, especially those from the Ural Mountains, command higher value due to their historical significance and superior color-change qualities. While secondary deposits expand the availability of alexandrite, the quality and characteristics of these stones can vary more significantly.

How to cleanse and charge alexandrite

  • Sage:  You might want to use sacred herbs like sage to smudge your crystal, which helps in releasing unwanted energies and restoring its natural vibrational state.
  • Moon:  If you’re drawn to the magic of the moon, leaving your alexandrite under the full moon’s light can both cleanse and recharge it beautifully.
  • Sound:  Sound is another powerful cleanser, as the vibrations from singing bowls or bells can clear away negativity.
  • Bury: For those who feel a connection to the earth, burying your crystal for a couple of days lets it discharge any absorbed negativity and recharge.
  • Water:  Lastly, water can play a role in cleansing your alexandrite, either through a saltwater soak or a natural running stream.

After cleansing, charging your crystal is the next step to amplify its energy.

  • Sunlight: Sunlight offers a straightforward method, as a few hours in the sun can significantly enhance your alexandrite’s vibrancy.
  • Moonlight: Moonlight, just like with cleansing, serves as a potent charger.
  • High-vibration stones: You can also place your crystal near high-vibrational stones like clear quartz or selenite to boost its energy further.
  • Infusing:  Infusing your crystal with a specific intention through your positive energy and visualization can also effectively charge it.

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About Me

Hi! I'm Lauren, and I run Moonlight Gems AZ. I'm an avid crystal collector and would love to share my expertise with you.