0.68 Ct. Alexandrite from Russia

This alexandrite is a transparent 0.68 carat pear shape gemstone, displaying a subtle bluish to purplish color that speaks to its natural chromium bearing composition. The stone measures 6.88 x 4.19 x 3.38 mm, and it is fashioned in a mixed brilliant cut designed to balance scintillation and color saturation across the pavilion and crown. Clarity has been assessed as very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, indicating inclusions that do not materially detract from the gem when set in jewelry. Color intensity is described as light, a quality that offers delicate elegance rather than overt saturation, and the polish has been finished to an excellent standard, creating crisp faceting and optimal surface luster. There has been no enhancement applied to this material, and its documented origin is Russia, a region historically associated with fine alexandrite. The Natural Gemstone Company presents this gem with full attention to its natural attributes and with clear specification of each physical and gemological parameter.

The journey of this alexandrite begins deep within a Russian deposit, where geological forces concentrated chromium within corundum over millions of years, producing the rare color change that defines the species. Extraction was performed with care to preserve crystal integrity, following techniques that prioritize selective removal of host rock and minimize unnecessary stress to the rough. Field sorting separated potential alexandrite crystals from surrounding material, and initial visual inspection in daylight provided the first indication of the bluish to purplish hue this crystal would ultimately reveal. The rough underwent preliminary cleaning to remove surface matrix, and a sequence of controlled transport steps moved the material from mine to regional sorting facilities, where experienced technicians performed a more detailed assessment of crystal habit, potential yield, and orientation for cutting. Throughout these stages the emphasis was on retaining the natural features of each piece, and on documenting provenance and handling history, ensuring this specimen arrived at the cutting table with a clear chain of custody and minimal mechanical stress.

At the workbench, master cutters considered the best strategy to translate the rough potential into a finished gem that balanced weight retention, optical performance, and symmetry. The decision to execute a pear shape with a mixed brilliant faceting scheme was driven by the crystal proportions and the desire to produce even light return while maintaining color presence along the length of the stone. Precise dimensioning to 6.88 x 4.19 x 3.38 mm reflects controlled planning to achieve a pleasing outline and depth percentage that support the gem's transparency and light interaction. During cutting, attention to pavilion angles and crown geometry was essential to optimize the interplay between brilliance and color change tendency, and polishing was carried out to an excellent standard to eliminate surface abrasion and enhance facet junction definition. Post cutting, the gem underwent systematic evaluation. Clarity grading at eye level identified very slight inclusions, consistent with natural formation processes, and a light color intensity was confirmed through comparison under standardized lighting. The declaration of no enhancement reflects that the color and clarity are wholly natural, without heat treatment or diffusion. Documentation accompanying the gem records these findings, and The Natural Gemstone Company maintains these records to support transparency in the market.

From the cutter the gemstone entered quality control and final presentation stages, where measurements were verified, weight was confirmed at 0.68 carat, and the stone was prepared for secure shipment to our facility. Packaging was selected to protect the gem from mechanical shock and environmental exposure, and condition reporting was attached to the parcel to track the gem through transit. Upon arrival at The Natural Gemstone Company, the alexandrite received a final inspection that included confirmation of the mixed brilliant cut execution, a review of polish condition, and a reassessment of visual properties under daylight and artificial light to observe the bluish to purplish tone that characterizes this piece. For jewelers and collectors, the gem presents options for elegant settings that emphasize the pear outline, and the light color intensity will pair well with both white and yellow precious metals depending on desired contrast. Care for alexandrite includes avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme heat and avoiding harsh chemicals, and routine cleaning with mild detergent and warm water will preserve the excellent polish. This specimen exemplifies the traceable path from historic Russian deposits to a finished gemstone ready for thoughtful curation, and The Natural Gemstone Company provides the detailed specification and provenance information needed by professionals who require clarity, precision, and an accurate account of a gem from mine to market.