Weight (Specific Gravity): High – ~3.73. It has a solid, substantial heft.
Treatment: Natural alexandrite is almost never treated; its value lies in its natural color-change. However, the market is flooded with:
Synthetic/Grown Alexandrite: Created via Czochralski or flux methods. This is the most common “alexandrite” in jewelry and must be disclosed as lab-created.
Color-Change Sapphire or Spinel: Often mis-sold as alexandrite.
Imitation Glass/Doublets.
Body (Clarity/Appearance): Alexandrite is a Type II gem, meaning eye-visible inclusions are common. Fine gems are transparent with good clarity. The strength and purity of the color change is the paramount quality factor, followed by the intensity of the individual colors. It is a durable gem (Mohs 8.5) with a vitreous luster and distinct cleavage, requiring careful cutting.
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