mineral

Alexandrite

Chrysoberyl (BeAl2O4 with Chromium impurities)

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

Hardness: 8
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 3, 2026More mineral →

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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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