How to Pick an Alexandrite Birthstone

Alexandrite is the "magic" birthstone, for it changes color depending on the time of day or light source under which it is viewed. Daylight or fluorescent light shows its unique shade of emerald green, and incandescent light or candlelight turns it a deep ruby red. A rare and costly gem, the alexandrite shares the month of June with other honorary birthstones pearl and moonstone.

Things You'll Need

• Reputable dealer
• Synthetic and natural light
• Documentation of authenticity

Instructions

Learn What to Look for in Quality Alexandrite

1. Pick an alexandrite birthstone for rarity. Alexandrite is mostly mined in its country of discovery, Russia. Russian alexandrite will be much more rare and costly than gems mined in Brazil, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Burma or Sri Lanka.

2. Choose an alexandrite for color. The truest hues of green and red, uncompromised by brown or black, are the most desirable. Those with the most dramatic color change will be the most expensive.

3. Select an alexandrite for price. When your budget is a greater priority than gem quality, choose lesser stones, such as those with windows or synthetic gems.

Shop Safely for an Alexandrite Birthstone

1. Choose a local dealer with a good reputation when buying an expensive and complex gemstone such as alexandrite. Look for a dealer associated with local, national or international business bureaus or gem trade associations.

2. Ask to view genuine natural alexandrite and the documentation that authenticates it.

3. Assess the color and brilliance of the birthstone under changing light conditions.

4. Assess the impact of "inclusions." These natural fault lines can diminish a gem's reflective qualities. A good jeweler will disclose a stone's inclusions and be able to discuss their impact on brilliance and price.

5. View a wide variety of stones before you pick one. The "phenomenal" color-changing quality of alexandrite can awe a first-time buyer.

Tips & Warnings

• An alexandrite variant is chrysoberyl cat's eye, which features a striking lighter vertical streak down the center, usually in a contrasting color.

• A birthstone with a "window" means that a gem has been cut so shallow that you can see through to the bottom of it. This affects its brilliance, and therefore its price.

• Alexandrites are considered by the industry as "phenomenal" gems, or those with changing visual properties.

• Genuine natural alexandrite does not need to be heat treated to achieve its colors. For the best quality, pick unenhanced alexandrite.

• Laboratory-made, synthetic alexandrite is difficult for the consumer to distinguish from the true gem. A knowledgeable and trustworthy dealer is your best defense against fakes.