Everything You Need To Know About Alexandrite Engagement Rings

Diamonds might be forever, but few gemstones are as mysteriously compelling as alexandrite, making it the perfect unique engagement ring option. The ever-changing hue and rarity of the stone make it extremely special and more than just a passing trend, and it’s ideal for brides who want something especially one-of-a-kind.

Alexandrite was discovered in 1834 in emerald mines near the Tokovaya River in the Urals. According to legend, it was discovered the same day Russain tsar Alexander II came of age, hence the name alexandrite. Because it shows the colors red and green, the colors of old Imperial Russia, it became the national stone of tsarist Russia. This regal history combined with the rarity of the stone makes it feel extra special and exclusive.

It can be difficult to compare alexandrite and diamonds, as Caitlin Mocuin, jewelry designer and founder of Mocuin, points out. “Alexandrite is a very, very different looking gemstone [than a diamond],” she explains. “I would say it’s desirable for someone who is looking for a more unique and unusual engagement ring.”

For those looking for something that stands out, alexandrite might be the better choice over a diamond since it feels a bit more exclusive. “If you are an outside-the-box kind of person, then alexandrite is a great choice,” says jewelry designer Helen Ficalora. “Alexandrite is a very valuable, rare, unusual, and expensive stone.”

While diamonds are by far the most durable gemstones out there, alexandrite isn’t a bad option in terms of strength. “Alexandrite is a great choice for an engagement ring due to its 8.5 out of 10 Mohs hardness,” says jewelry designer Nicole Rose Kopelman.

The most important thing to know about alexandrite is that the color is going to change: In daylight, it looks green to blue to yellow-green, and in incandescent or candlelight, it appears pink to purple to red.

“It looks great in yellow gold, which highlights the red/purple warm tones and also contrasts the green/teal cool tones,” Ficalora says. “A white metal will work in the reverse. It depends if you like the warmer tones or the cooler tones, and which you would prefer to compliment.”

The color also determines the price—the stronger the color change, the more expensive it’s going to be. “Ones that change to red are more valuable than purple or brownish tones,” says Mocuin. “You should only be paying a high price for one that displays both a warm and cool color and displays reds,” she adds.

To make sure you’re getting the best stone, buy a certified stone from a reputable laboratory that grades gemstones, advises Peter Amerosi, diamond expert, Gemological Institute of America graduate, and vice president of Gerald Peters. “Their report will reveal unbiased information about the gemstone you are purchasing,” he explains.

“You should avoid treated gemstones as they were altered at some point to change color, clarity, or durability,” he adds. “Synthetic stones are chemically identical to natural stones, except synthetic stones were grown by a man in a laboratory. The value of natural stones is much higher than synthetic. If possible, and if your budget allows, I recommend sticking to natural gemstones only.”

In terms of settings, Peters says it’s a good idea to get a hard precious metal to hold alexandrite in place since it’s softer than a traditional diamond.

Caring for an alexandrite ring is pretty simple since it’s a hard stone. Peters recommends using a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, with mild soap and room temperature water. “Consider this type of cleaning a ‘car wash,’” he says. “If you want a more in-depth clean, visit the jeweler you purchase the ring from. They will be able to steam, sonic clean, and even polish your ring. Consider this type of cleaning a ‘full detailing.’”

Another way to clean it at home on your own is to put it in a bowl of water with a few drops of ordinary dish detergent, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Alexandrite is hard, but not as hard and durable as a diamond. Because of that, Peters says you should remove it before heavy cleaning, exercising, swimming, or encountering any chemical.

Now, scroll through the stunning alexandrite engagement rings ahead.