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Alexandrite

al·​ex·​an·​drite | ˌa-lig-ˈzan-ˌdrīt

noun

A variation of Chrysoberyl, with the unique ability of changing color in natural or artificial light

Regarded as the birthstone of June, and the gem of the 55th wedding anniversary, alexandrite was originally discovered in 1830, derived from the great Czar Alexander II, the Crown Prince of Russia. Alexandrite is a variation from chrysoberyl, a mineral which is publicized for its changing color in several forms of light. In sunlight, alexandrite appears blue-green, but indoors (tungsten) the color changes to a reddish-purple hue. Rarely mined, natural alexandrite of intense color is very expensive. Into the bargain, there are various synthetics in the market. Consumers may mistake a synthetic piece for authentic as the physical, chemical, and optical properties are next to equivalent. Authentic alexandrite may be found in areas of East Africa, Sri Lanka, and Brazil.