0.85 Ct. Alexandrite from Brazil

This transparent 0.85 carat oval alexandrite presents precise proportions and deliberate cutting choices that will appeal to a technically minded collector, the length measures 6.97 millimeters, the width measures 5.03 millimeters, and the depth measures 3.14 millimeters, yielding a length to width ratio of approximately 1.38, and an overall depth of approximately 52 percent which produces a compact pavilion and a lively face up presence. The cutter selected a mixed brilliant schema, combining a brilliant style crown with a modified pavilion structure that preserves broad flashes of white light while simultaneously directing selective spectral return to reinforce color saturation. The clarity is graded very slightly included at eye level, which indicates small internal features that do not materially interrupt transparency or overall light performance, and the finish is described as excellent polish with crisp facet junctions and symmetrical facet alignment. This alexandrite is unenhanced, it is natural and untreated, and it is sourced from Brazil, a provenance that is associated with attractive color change specimens and consistent crystal quality.

Optically the piece demonstrates a textbook alexandrite color change, appearing a cool, well saturated green in daylight and a purplish red under incandescent illumination, the change is pronounced because of strong chromium related absorption bands that shift the dominant transmitted wavelengths between cool and warm lighting spectra, and the gem also displays measurable pleochroic tendencies that contribute to shifting hues when viewed off axis. The mixed brilliant cutting approach is purposeful for such a color change material, the shallower pavilion facets reduce windowing and concentrate body color when seen face up, while the brilliant crown faceting maximizes return of pinpoint scintillation, therefore both color saturation and lively sparkle are preserved across lighting conditions. At 0.85 carat and the stated proportions this alexandrite sits in a size range that behaves favorably in a variety of mountings, the oval silhouette and balanced table allow even light distribution, and the very slightly included clarity ensures that small internal features will be mostly masked by the intense color, rather than competing with it.

As a gift this alexandrite will register as both technically refined and emotionally resonant, its dynamic color change creates a literal and figurative transformation that reads as a thoughtful and rare present, The Natural Gemstone Company recommends presentation in a setting that honors the gem science, for example a low bezel or four prong mounting to maximize light interaction, or a halo of small high quality diamonds to provide a neutral white field that increases perceived color contrast and intensifies the purplish red under warm light. The Brazilian origin, the absence of enhancements, and the excellent polish together make this stone a compelling choice for a milestone commission where optical performance and material integrity are priorities. For collectors and discerning buyers who value facet engineering, spectral behavior, and provenance, this alexandrite represents a compact, intensely colored example that will make an immediately striking gift and a technically satisfying long term addition to a fine jewelry collection.