1.01 Ct. Alexandrite from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 1.01 carat cushion shape alexandrite presents a technically refined profile that will satisfy discerning connoisseurs, the gem measures 5.91 by 5.42 by 3.49 millimeters, yielding an overall depth of approximately 61.6 percent, and it exhibits the classic proportions that allow both color saturation and liveability in jewelry. The stone is cut as a mixed brilliant, with a brilliant style crown designed to breakup light and enhance scintillation, and a precisely calibrated pavilion that preserves color depth while promoting return of light, the mixed brilliant architecture is chosen specifically for cushion shapes to balance table play and pavilion light return, the result is strong facet contrast and lively scintillation without sacrificing the intense body color. Clarity is graded slightly included at eye level, in practical terms the inclusions are minor and do not interfere with the stone integrity or the visual effect under typical viewing distances, the polish is excellent, indicating careful final lap work and facet junction cleanliness, and the specimen is entirely natural with no enhancement, originating from Ceylon Sri Lanka, which in this instance produces an unusually intense color presentation within the Sri Lankan alexandrite spectrum.

When compared to other gemstones in the color change category, this alexandrite demonstrates a combination of adamantine luster and controlled dispersion that differentiates it from color change garnets and sapphires, alexandrite as a chrysoberyl variety possesses a higher refractive index and a characteristic chromium related absorption spectrum that yields an unmistakable greenish to orangish color shift, the mixed brilliant cut accentuates this optical mechanism by providing alternating planes of light and shadow that make the color change appear dynamic rather than flat. Against color change garnets which often show a more abrupt shift but softer brilliance, this cushion alexandrite maintains crisper facet definition and stronger scintillation, when compared to color change sapphires which can present deep saturated hues but typically lower dispersion, this alexandrite returns light with sharper, more crystalline flashes owing to its adamantine luster, the overall interplay of intense color intensity, precise mixed brilliant faceting, slight eye level inclusions, and excellent polish produces a gem that reads as both technically accomplished and visually compelling, The Natural Gemstone Company is proud to present this striking, untreated Ceylon alexandrite to clients seeking performance oriented gemstones with documented craftsmanship.