Beauty of alexandrite

What Determines the Value of Alexandrite?

Alexandrite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, renowned for its remarkable colour-changing properties. Prices vary significantly depending on the strength of colour change, clarity, size and origin.

Fine alexandrite gemstones can command prices ranging from a few thousand dollars per carat to well over tens of thousands for exceptional stones.

Alexandrite Price Per Carat

  • Commercial

    $2,000 – $5,000

    Weak colour change, included clarity, often brownish or greyish undertones.

  • Good

    $5,000 – $15,000

    Moderate colour change (50-60%), acceptable clarity, decent brightness.

  • Fine

    $15,000 – $40,000

    Strong colour change (70-80%), eye-clean clarity, vivid daytime colours.

  • Premium

    High-End

    $40,000 – $100,000+

    100% distinct colour change (pure green to pure red), flawless clarity, optimal proportions.

What Affects Alexandrite Price

  • Factor 01

    Colour Change

    The defining feature of alexandrite is its ability to change colour.

    The most valuable stones display:

    • Strong green or bluish-green in daylight
    • Vivid red or purplish-red under warm light
    • Clear, dramatic shift between colours

    The stronger and more distinct the colour change,
    the higher the value.

  • Factor 02

    Colour Quality

    Beyond colour change, the richness of each colour matters.

    High-value stones display:

    • Vivid and saturated colours
    • Minimal grey or brown tones

  • Factor 03

    Clarity

    Fine alexandrite gemstones often display good clarity and brilliance.

    However:

    • Fewer inclusions = Higher value
    • Higher transparency = Premium Pricing

  • Factor 05

    Size (Carat Weight)

    Large natural alexandrite gemstones are extremely rare.

    Example:

    • Under 1ct → More Available
    • 1–2ct → Rare
    • 3ct+ → Extremely rare and high-value

  • Factor 04

    Origin

    Origin can influence pricing, particularly for historical sources.

    Russian Alexandrite:

    Historically the most prized due to strong colour change.

    Brazilian Alexandrite:

    Vibrant colours and strong colour change.

    Sri Lankan Alexandrite:

    Displays softer but attractive colour transitions.

Why Alexandrite Is Rare?

Fine natural alexandrite is significantly rarer than most other gemstones.

Stones with strong colour change, good clarity and larger sizes are extremely difficult to source, making them
highly sought after by collectors.

Natural vs Lab Created

Understanding the differences helps buyers make more informed decisions for engagement rings and fine jewellery.

  • Natural

    • Extremely rare, natural formation over millions of years.
    • Holds significant long-term investment value.
    • Unique inclusions serve as nature's fingerprint.
    • Premium price point reflecting authentic scarcity.

  • Lab Created

    • Grown in weeks/months using synthetic processes.
    • Zero investment value; depreciates upon purchase.
    • Often "too perfect" or shows synthetic growth patterns under a loupe.
    • Highly affordable alternative for costume jewelry.

Realistic Buyer Guide

  • entry level

    $3,000 – $8,000

    Small stones (<0.5ct) with decent colour change, or larger stones with very weak shift and noticeable inclusions.

  • Good Quality

    $8,000 – $20,000

    0.5ct to 1ct stones with noticeable colour change (50-70%) and good clarity. Ideal for engagement rings.

  • Fine Quality

    $20,000 – $50,000

    1ct+ stones exhibiting strong colour change, excellent clarity, and fine cutting. Investment grade.

  • Collector Grade

    $50,000+

    Exceptional stones over 1.5ct with 100% colour shift and impeccable clarity. The rarest of the rare.

Alexandrite pricing is heavily influenced by the strength of colour change, which can vary significantly from stone to stone.

How Rare Is Alexandrite?

"You are more likely to find a top-quality diamond, ruby, or sapphire than you are to find a fine alexandrite over one carat."

  • Fine Sapphires mined

  • Fine Rubies mined

  • Fine Alexandrite mined

  • Prioritise Colour Change

    Look for a strong shift from green or bluish-green in daylight to red or purplish-red under warm light. Greater contrast commands higher value.

  • Consider Origin

    Origin can influence value. Always request certification to confirm the stone is natural and accurately graded.

  • Verify Natural vs Lab-Created

    Natural alexandrite is significantly rarer and more valuable than lab-created alternatives, which only replicate the colour change.

  • View Under Different Lighting

    Assess the stone in both natural and warm light. A fine alexandrite should perform consistently across lighting conditions.

Before You Buy

Buying Checklist

Our specialists have compiled the essential questions and verification steps every alexandrite buyer should undertake before committing to a purchase.

Recently Sourced

View Alexandrite in Melbourne

At SkyGem & Co we specialise in sourcing natural alexandrite gemstones selected for rarity, colour change and brilliance.

Many gemstones are available to view in our Melbourne showroom by appointment.

Book Private Appointment