mineral
Alexandrite
Chrysoberyl (BeAl2O4 with Chromium impurities)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 8.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Green to bluish-green in daylight, red to purplish-red in incandescent light; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 3.70 - 3.78
- Hardness
- 8
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 8.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Green to bluish-green in daylight, red to purplish-red in incandescent light; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 3.70 - 3.78
Formation & geological history
Formed in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks (mica schists) where beryllium and chromium meet; often ancient Precambrian formations
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a high-end gemstone in jewelry due to its extreme rarity and color-changing properties
Geological facts
Named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia; it was first discovered in the Ural Mountains in 1830 on the Tsar's birthday
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct 'color change' effect under different light sources; found in Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary