The alexandrite stone is one of the rarest and most beautiful gemstones in existence, adored for its magical color changing phenomenon. Sometimes called “emerald by day and ruby by night,” a natural alexandrite stone changes from green or bluish-green in daylight to red or purplish-red in incandescent light. And because it’s so valuable and scarce, the market is riddled with fraudulent and fake ones. If you’re going to purchase one, you need to know how to tell a real alexandrite stone.
1. Observe the Color Change
The most distinctive characteristic of real alexandrite is the dramatic color change. It typically looks green, teal or bluish-green in natural daylight. Under incandescent or candlelight it shifts to red, purplish-red, or violet.
A robust and vibrant color shift is a sign of quality.
Stones with only a slight color difference may also be genuine but are less valuable.
If the stone doesn’t shift colors at all then it’s probably a counterfeit or some other gem marketed as alexandrite.
2. Check for Natural Inclusions
As with most natural gemstones, alexandrite stone price commonly includes inclusions (minute internal flaws). These can manifest as fine lines, needles, or feathers on magnification.
Natural inclusions suggest authenticity.
If the stone seems too pristine or perfectly transparent, it’s probably synthetic.
3. Try other light sources
One sure-fire way to do an authenticity check is by holding the stone to different light sources:
Daylight or fluorescent light – the stone should exhibit greenish to bluish hues.
Incandescent or warm light – it’ll go red, purplish-red or raspberry.
If the stone doesn’t have a visible change, it can’t really be alexandrite.
4. Validate by Gemological Certificate
Since natural alexandrite is rare and expensive, a gemstone certificate from a reputable laboratory (such as GIA or IGI) is essential. The certificate confirms:
The stone is organic (not artificial).
Its origin and authenticity.
Information on color, clarity and carat.
Buying uncertified stones can get you the risk of ending up with a synthetic or treated stone.
5. Look for Common Imitations
Some stones and synthetics that are sometimes misrepresented as alexandrite are:
Synthetic alexandrite (corundum-based) – laboratory-produced, less expensive, overly dramatic color changes.
Color-change sapphire or spinel – actual gemstones but not alexandrite.
Glass or quartz knock offs – dirt cheap and crappy.
A trained gemologist can assist you in distinguishing these imitations from natural alexandrite.
6. Consider the Price
Genuine alexandrite is among the priciest of all gemstones, particularly if it exhibits a robust color change and has an ample carat weight. If you find a deal that seems “too good to be true”, it is. Cheap stones sold as alexandrite are generally synthetic or fakes.
Final Thoughts
The Real alexandrite stone is the rarest of rarities, which is why it is critical for purchasers to know how to spot a genuine one. By noting its signature color shift, inspecting for natural inclusions, trying it on various lights and checking for certification, you can guard against counterfeits. When you invest in alexandrite, always buy from reputable jewelers who will give you the appropriate certificates.
To possess a real alexandrite is to possess magic - mirroring change, harmony and elegance in its purest state.
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