Is Alexandrite Expensive?

Alexandrite isn’t your average gemstone—it’s a shapeshifter. A stone that flips colors depending on the light, goes from mysterious green to sultry red, and leaves just about everyone who sees it asking, “What is that?”

And with all that magic, yes—alexandrite tends to be expensive. But there’s a good reason why.

Let’s break down what makes this gem so rare, valuable, and downright irresistible in fine jewelry.

What Is Alexandrite, Really?

Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl—but don’t let the scientific name fool you. What sets it apart is its dramatic color change. Under daylight or fluorescent lighting, it appears green to bluish-green. Shift to incandescent light or candlelight? Suddenly, it glows reddish-purple to raspberry.

This isn't a trick of the eye. It's a unique optical effect caused by the way alexandrite absorbs light—something only a few gemstones in the world can do.

It's a gem with two personalities. And in our book at Worthmore Jewelers, that makes it twice as cool.

Why Is Alexandrite So Rare?

One word: chemistry. Alexandrite only forms when a very specific combination of beryllium and chromium come together in just the right geologic conditions. That doesn’t happen very often.

A Brief Mining Background:

Originally discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the 1830s.

Today, it’s also mined (in much smaller quantities) in:

• Brazil

• Sri Lanka

• Tanzania

• Madagascar

• India

Even in active mines, only a small fraction of the material pulled from the ground turns out to be true, gem-quality alexandrite—with strong color change, clarity, and size.

That’s why top-quality natural alexandrite can rival (and sometimes surpass) the price of diamonds per carat.

So, Why Is Alexandrite Expensive?

Let’s connect the dots:

• Rarity: It’s incredibly hard to find, especially with intense color change.

• Mining challenges: Most sources are small-scale, and the recovery process is labor-intensive.

• Visual phenomenon: The dramatic shift in color adds serious value—this is a gem that never looks the same twice.

• Durability: Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it strong enough for everyday wear.

• Desirability: Collectors, designers, and gem lovers are all drawn to its mystery, beauty, and symbolism.

Whether you're buying natural or lab-grown alexandrite, the price reflects its unique charm—and how few truly high-quality stones exist.

Alexandrite in Jewelry: Why It's So Desirable

At Worthmore Jewelers, we’re all about the unexpected—and alexandrite fits that perfectly.

What Makes It So Popular?

• It’s unique. If you want a gemstone that doesn’t blend in, this is it.

• It tells a story. The color change symbolizes balance, transformation, and hidden depth.

• It plays well with design. Alexandrite’s shifting tones pair beautifully with both warm and cool metals—rose gold, yellow gold, platinum, you name it.

• It’s meaningful. As a June birthstone and a 55th anniversary gem, alexandrite carries emotional weight.

Jewelry Designs That Feature Alexandrite

Here’s where it gets fun. Alexandrite is stunning in everything from classic to edgy designs.

Just a few custom ideas we love working on:

• A two-tone engagement ring where the alexandrite is the centerpiece—morphing to match the moment.

• A halo pendant with diamonds surrounding a round-cut alexandrite—making the color shift even more dramatic.

• A modern east-west set ring with an emerald-cut lab-grown alexandrite for sleek, everyday luxury.

• A reworked heirloom where a family stone was remounted into a sculptural white gold band.

• We’ve even had clients fall in love with lab-grown versions—especially when they want the beauty of the gem on a more flexible budget.

Want to bring a personal design to life? We’ve got the vision, tools, and creative energy to make it happen.

Natural vs. Lab-Grown Alexandrite: What's the Price Difference?

If natural alexandrite is out of reach, you’re not out of luck. Lab-grown alexandrite has the same optical effects and structure, often with clearer stones and bolder color change.

• Natural alexandrite: Rare, collectible, and usually higher in price.

• Lab-grown alexandrite: More budget-friendly, perfect for creative designs or everyday wear.

At Worthmore, we’re all about helping you find the piece—and the price point—that suits your story.

Final Thoughts: Worth Every Sparkle

So yes—alexandrite is expensive. But not just because it’s rare. It’s expensive because it’s rare and extraordinary. Because it offers something other gems can’t. Because it shifts, surprises, and brings a little bit of mystery into everyday life.

Whether you’re thinking about creating a custom alexandrite engagement ring, reworking an heirloom with a little modern magic, or simply exploring gemstones that break the rules—come see what makes this gem so unforgettable.

Visit Worthmore Jewelers

Book an appointment at our Midtown or Decatur stores

Let’s create something that changes with the light—just like you.