Chrysoberyl

specimen number:
9711699

location:
Novello mine, Masvingo, Zimbabwe

description:
Dark green twinned crystals of chrysoberyl measuring to 1.0 cm in size coming off matrix. This is the variety known as alexandrite. There is a nice color change in some translucency as shown at the end of the video. In great condition.

Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that is famous for its color change effect. It was first discovered in Russia in the 19th century and is valued as a gemstone. The color change is caused by trace amounts of chromium in the crystal structure, which affects how the mineral absorbs light. In daylight, which is rich in blue and green wavelengths, alexandrite appears green, while in incandescent light, which is richer in red wavelengths, it appears red to purple. This selective absorption of light produces the distinctive color change that makes alexandrite highly prized.

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