Meaning & symbolism
Alexandrite is a rare colour-change variety of chrysoberyl, green in daylight and red under candlelight or incandescent light because of traces of chromium. First found in the Ural Mountains around 1830 to 1834 and named after the future Tsar Alexander II, it is a modern June birthstone and the 55th anniversary gem. Most alexandrite now comes from Sri Lanka, Brazil and East Africa.
How to use it
Worn as a ring or pendant during transitions, or held in meditation on the heart, crown or third eye chakra. These are traditional uses, not medical advice.
Cleansing & care
Mohs 8.5 with very good toughness. Clean with lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush. Store apart from diamonds, sapphires and other alexandrites. Beware of synthetic colour-change sapphire sold as alexandrite: it shifts blue to purple, never green to red.
