How Is Alexandrite Mined?

There’s something undeniably magnetic about alexandrite. A natural gem that changes color depending on the light? Now that’s breaking the rules—in the best possible way. But beyond its chameleon-like beauty lies another layer of fascination: where does alexandrite come from, and how exactly is it mined?

This isn’t your everyday gemstone. Alexandrite is rare—really rare. And its mining process is as unique as the gem itself.

What is Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl prized for its dramatic color-change effect—green in daylight or fluorescent light, and reddish-purple under incandescent light. This isn’t a trick of the eye; it's due to the gem’s unique crystal structure and how it absorbs light.

Discovered in Russia in the 1830s, it quickly became a gemstone of legend, luxury, and mystique. Today, high-quality alexandrite is found in limited locations around the world—and mining it is no small feat.

What Makes Alexandrite So Rare?

Alexandrite isn’t just hard to find—it’s geologically unusual. For it to form, a very specific cocktail of elements has to come together: beryllium, aluminum, and trace amounts of chromium—all under the right temperature and pressure conditions.

That’s why this gem isn’t found just anywhere. It requires geological magic, and that magic only happens in a few corners of the world.

Where Is Alexandrite Found?

Originally discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, alexandrite was named after the future Tsar Alexander II. Those early Russian stones were legendary for their vivid color shifts—from emerald green in daylight to ruby red under incandescent light.

Today, Russian alexandrite is virtually mined out, but the gem still turns up in small pockets around the world:

• Brazil – One of today’s primary sources. Brazilian alexandrite can display a strong color change with subtle bluish-greens and purplish-reds.

• Sri Lanka – Known for producing larger stones, though the color change tends to be softer and less dramatic.

• Tanzania – A more recent and promising source, with high-quality material showing vibrant transitions.

• India, Madagascar, Zimbabwe – Smaller deposits, often yielding unique color varieties.

Every source produces its own “flavor” of alexandrite—some deeper in tone, some with more brightness, but all with that magical duality of color.

How Is Alexandrite Mined?

Mining alexandrite isn’t like digging up common quartz or amethyst. Because it’s found in limited geological zones, the mining operations are typically small-scale and precise.

1. Open-Pit Mining

Used when alexandrite is close to the surface.

• Earth is removed in layers using heavy equipment.

• Workers sift through soil to locate chrysoberyl-bearing rock.

• Less dangerous, but can still be labor-intensive and weather-dependent.

2. Underground Mining

Used for deeper deposits—think of it as gemstone spelunking.

• Tunnels are carved through rock to reach the gem-rich veins.

• More dangerous and expensive but often necessary in older or deeper deposits.

• Common in Brazil and Russia, especially when high-grade alexandrite is involved.

3. Alluvial Mining (Surface Sifting)

In places like Sri Lanka, where water erosion has naturally carried gemstones into riverbeds.

• Miners pan or sift through sediment to collect stones.

• Environmentally low-impact but requires sharp eyes and patience.

What Happens After Mining?

Once an alexandrite is unearthed, the work’s just getting started.

• Sorting and Grading: Color-change strength, clarity, and carat weight are all reviewed.

• Cutting: Alexandrite is notoriously tricky to cut. The right angles enhance both its color shift and overall brilliance.

• Certification: Reputable labs like GIA often certify top-quality stones.

• Designing: That’s where we come in—setting this wonder into a one-of-a-kind Worthmore creation.

We’ve helped clients design everything from engagement rings with a twist to statement pieces for gemstone collectors. If you’re looking for something truly personal, alexandrite is hard to beat.

How Rare Is Natural Alexandrite?

In short? Very.

• Natural alexandrite is significantly rarer than diamonds.

• Stones over one carat with strong color change are especially prized.

• Lab-grown versions exist but don’t have the same geological story or collector appeal.

So if you find a natural alexandrite ring that catches your eye—don’t blink.

Related Questions You Might Be Wondering

Is alexandrite only found in Russia?

Nope! While Russian stones are prized, great-quality alexandrite also comes from Brazil, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa.

Is alexandrite good for daily wear?

Yes. With a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, it’s durable enough for rings and other frequently worn jewelry.

Can I request a custom alexandrite piece?

Absolutely. Our custom design team can source a stone that matches your vision and set it in a ring, pendant, or any design that reflects your personal style.

Discover the Magic for Yourself

Jewelry should feel like you. If you’re drawn to something that defies expectations and dances with light, alexandrite might just be your match. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, designing a one-of-a-kind ring, or simply falling in love with color again—Worthmore Jewelers is here to guide you through the wonder.

Stop by one of our Atlanta or Decatur locations, or schedule an appointment online to explore alexandrite’s possibilities in person.

Because around here, we don’t believe in ordinary—and clearly, neither does alexandrite.