Alexandrite is not your typical birthstone. For one, it’s relatively new only discovered in the 1830s but its charm is undeniable. While most gemstones come wrapped in centuries of legend, Alexandrite’s allure lies not in myth, but in magic: it quite literally changes colour depending on the light.
By day, this rare gem appears a captivating bluish-green or forest green. By night, under incandescent lighting, it transforms into a vivid raspberry red or purplish hue. This extraordinary optical phenomenon, known as pleochroism, makes Alexandrite one of the most mysterious and coveted gemstones among collectors, connoisseurs, and romantics alike.
A Royal Beginning
Though the circumstances of its discovery are still debated, most agree that Alexandrite was first unearthed in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Legend has it the gem was named in honour of the young Alexander II, soon to be Tsar, and its dramatic colour shift red and green mirrored the Russian imperial colours. Whether by design or destiny, Alexandrite quickly became a treasured jewel in the Russian royal court.
This 7.19-carat alexandrite was cut to feature its beautiful colour change. When the light source changes from daylight to incandescent light, the gem’s colour changes from bluish green to reddish purple. (IMG by GIA)
More Than Just a Pretty Colour
Alexandrite’s beauty is only part of its appeal. It’s often associated with emotional resilience, luck, and balance. A symbol of duality, it represents both the heart and mind encouraging creativity and intuition while also offering a sense of grounding. Some even say that Alexandrite helps connect the wearer to their life’s true purpose, providing light in times of transformation or emotional growth.
It’s a stone that reminds us: nothing is ever quite what it seems, and that in change, there is beauty.
Global Rarity, Timeless Investment
Today, fine Alexandrite is even rarer than diamonds. While deposits have been discovered in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, top-quality stones with intense colour change and clarity remain extremely limited. This scarcity has led to a steady increase in value over the years, making it not only a meaningful choice but also a wise investment for those seeking future heirlooms.
Fun fact? The most valuable Alexandrites exhibit a strong green to purplish-red change and can command prices upwards of $70,000 per carat in exceptional quality.
Sharing the Spotlight: Pearl & Moonstone
If you’re born in June, you’re doubly (or triply) blessed. Alongside Alexandrite, your birthstones include Pearl and Moonstone each offering its own tale of beauty.
Pearls are organic, formed in the soft tissues of mollusks, and admired for their luminous glow. Once considered the most precious gem in history, they remain timeless symbols of purity and prosperity.
Moonstones, often underrated, have an inner glow known as adularescence; a soft, mysterious sheen that dances across the surface. Revered by ancient civilizations, they are thought to offer protection, soothe the spirit, and bring harmony in love.
Styling Alexandrite the Kimjoux Way
Because of its colour-changing nature, Alexandrite adapts beautifully to different outfits and occasions. A bespoke Alexandrite ring becomes a conversation starter at dinner parties. A pendant can shift its glow depending on your lighting from office lighting to candle-lit dates. The stone’s mysterious elegance pairs wonderfully with white, yellow, or rose gold.
Pair Alexandrite with a custom-designed jacket pendants, or mix it with pavé diamond details for extra sparkle. Want something powerful? Consider a bespoke signet or toi et moi design a poetic combination of Alexandrite and another meaningful gem.
Care & Storage
Because Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale, it’s relatively hard and safe for daily wear. Still, it’s best to:
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Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
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Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
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Store in a soft pouch or fabric-lined box, away from harder stones.
Let’s Create Your Heirloom
At Kimjoux, we believe jewellery should not just be beautiful, it should be meaningful. Whether you're marking a special milestone or simply captivated by Alexandrite’s charm, we can help you find the perfect gem and bring your vision to life.
💌 Email us at hello@kimjoux.com
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