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Alexandrite

Photo: Original uploader was User: at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Alexandrite

Also known as: Colour-change chrysoberyl

The famous colour-change gem – green in daylight, red under warm light – and a June birthstone discovered in Russia's Urals.

  • ColourGreen, Red, Purple
  • Mineral groupChrysoberyl
  • ChemistryBeAl₂O₄ (with Cr)
  • Hardness (Mohs)8.5
  • Crystal systemOrthorhombic
  • Where it's foundRussia (Urals), Brazil, Sri Lanka, East Africa
  • ChakraHeart, Crown
  • ZodiacGemini, Scorpio
  • BirthstoneJune

What is Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Traces of chromium make it change colour: bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red under warm incandescent light or candlelight – one of the most dramatic effects in the gem world.

It was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and named after the future Tsar Alexander II. Its red and green matched the colours of imperial Russia, making it a national favourite. Fine natural alexandrite is very rare and valuable; most affordable "alexandrite" jewellery is lab-created or simulated.

Alexandrite astrology & birthstone

  • Zodiac signsGemini, Scorpio
  • Ruling planetMercury
  • ElementAir
  • Birthstone monthJune

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Alexandrite meaning & traditional properties

Alexandrite is associated with balance, joy and adapting to change – fitting for a stone that changes colour itself. It is a birthstone for June, together with pearl and moonstone.

  • Balance
  • Joy
  • Change

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Alexandrite

  • Wear alexandrite as your June birthstone.
  • Look at it in daylight and then candlelight to see its colour change.

How to care for Alexandrite

Very hard and durable. Clean with warm soapy water.

Looking for Alexandrite?

Alexandrite isn't in our shop right now – new stock arrives regularly. In the meantime, explore similar crystals we have available or browse our full crystal collection.

  • Emerald
    In our shop

    Emerald

    The legendary green beryl and May birthstone, treasured from Cleopatra's Egypt to Colombia.

  • Moonstone
    In our shop

    Moonstone

    Feldspar with a floating blue-white glow, June's birthstone and a stone of the moon in many cultures.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Alexandrite with a calm & sleep ritual

An evening wind-down ritual to slow the mind before rest.

Traditionally paired with: Lavender or chamomile incense · Sandalwood or Nag Champa · A soft lavender or white candle

  • Dim the lights and light a lavender or chamomile candle.
  • Light sandalwood or lavender incense and take five slow breaths.
  • Hold your crystal in your palm while you let the day go, then place it on your bedside table.
  • Blow out the candle before you sleep.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Alexandrite jewellery & pendulums

Wear the energy of your favourite crystals every day – browse our handmade crystal jewellery and dowsing pendulums.

Alexandrite FAQs

Why does alexandrite change colour?

Chromium absorbs light in a way that makes it look green in daylight and red under warm light.

Is my alexandrite natural?

Natural alexandrite is rare and expensive; most affordable pieces are lab-created or simulants.

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  • Moonstone
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    Moonstone

    Feldspar with a floating blue-white glow, June's birthstone and a stone of the moon in many cultures.

  • Tanzanite

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    Violet-blue gem found in only one small area near Mount Kilimanjaro – a December birthstone discovered in 1...

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