0.19 Ct. Alexandrite from Russia

This specimen is a transparent alexandrite of 0.19 carat, emerald cut, with precise dimensions of 3.37 x 2.58 x 2.21 mm, originating from the historic Russian deposits associated with classic chromic alexandrite material. The stone shows a greenish to pinkish color change with a light color intensity, and it is unenhanced, retaining its natural chromophore distribution and optical characteristics. The clarity grade is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which indicates minimal internal features that do not materially interrupt the stone s transparency or its ability to transmit and shift color. The combination of a small, well measured weight and a transparent body allows the inherent color change to register cleanly under differing illuminants, while the Russian provenance contributes to a provenance premium for connoisseurs who prioritize classic locality and natural state.

The emerald cut faceting is executed to emphasize body color and clarity rather than extreme brilliance, with broad step facets on the crown and pavilion arranged to create controlled color windows and directional light return. The cutter maintained a length to width ratio of approximately 1.31, affording an elegant rectangular outline that balances pavilion depth and table area. The measured depth of 2.21 mm relative to the average of length and width yields a proportion of approximately 74 percent, a depth that increases color saturation and supports a noticeable color shift even at a modest carat weight. This faceting strategy preserves weight and maximizes the chromic response by orienting the major step facets to favor pleochroic axes, and the excellent polish produces crisp facet junctions and smooth facet planes which aid in producing clean, unbroken color transitions during rotation. Because there is no enhancement, the color change is wholly natural, and the cutter s decisions were tailored to accentuate the stone s innate chromatic properties rather than to conceal flaws or artificially intensify hue.

From an application perspective the stone s dimensions, faceting, and optical attributes make it unusually versatile, appropriate for both understated day wear and more formal, statement contexts. In minimalist and casual settings the emerald cut s linear geometry reads modern and architectural, and the moderate size makes the stone suitable for delicate solitaires, bezel set rings, pendant locks, or as accent components in refined stackable pieces. In elevated formal compositions the controlled step facets and the natural greenish to pinkish shift provide a sophisticated chromatic surprise that reads like a small but deliberate center stone in halo configurations, three stone arrangements, or as matched accents flanking a larger center gem. The very slightly included clarity grade ensures good light transmission and stable optical behavior under loupe and naked eye viewing, while the excellent polish reduces surface diffusion and preserves crisp reflections, making the gem perform reliably in both bright daylight and warmer incandescent environments.

Handling and setting recommendations reflect the gem s technical profile, with its natural state and Russian origin appealing to collectors and fine jewelry designers who prioritize authenticity and provenance. Alexandrite s hardness and toughness are favorable for daily wear when properly set, but because chromic response is angle dependent, cutters and setters should orient the stone so the table aligns with the intended view axis to preserve optimal color change in the finished piece. Avoid aggressive cleaning agents, and use routine ultrasonic and steam cleaning only after consulting a trained jeweler, as inclusions and facet junctions respond best to professional care. This alexandrite is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, and it will serve well as a refined, technically interesting component in bespoke work, bespoke heirloom pieces, and refined everyday designs where subtlety of color change and classical cutting technique are valued.