1.51 Ct. Cabochon Alexandrite from Tanzania

This translucent 1.51 carat oval alexandrite measures 6.32 x 4.91 x 4.87 millimeters, and it presents a compelling yellowish green to reddish green color change that is characteristic of fine chrysoberyl alexandrite. Faceted as a cabochon, this gem benefits from an excellent polish that enhances its surface luster and emphasizes its color shift under different light sources. The color intensity is medium, which allows both the green and red tones to show distinctly without appearing overly dark. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, and importantly this specimen has no enhancements. Origin is Tanzania, a locale known for producing alexandrite with attractive color change and natural, collector worthy inclusions. The Natural Gemstone Company offers this stone with full disclosure of its natural features, making it ideal for buyers who value provenance and untreated material.

What gives this alexandrite its unmistakable signature are the internal inclusions and their interaction with the cabochon form. Along the dome a fine, linear reflective band appears, a result of aligned, needlelike inclusions that create a subtle chatoyancy when light grazes the surface. These oriented acicular structures occur alongside pinpoint crystals and soft fingerprint clouds, which are visible at close inspection but do not detract from the gem when viewed normally, hence the very slightly included clarity grade at eye level. These inclusions do more than affect appearance, they are diagnostic indicators of natural formation in the Tanzanian pegmatitic and metamorphic environments where chromium driven color change occurs. The way the inclusions sit within the stone also accentuates the color zoning, producing areas that read yellowish green in fluorescent light and shift to reddish green in incandescent light, a dynamic that collectors and connoisseurs prize. For the educated buyer, this piece represents a balance of rarity and natural character, a clean eye level presentation with the telltale internal structures that confirm authenticity and origin. The gem is best set in jewelry that protects the dome, and The Natural Gemstone Company is available to advise on mounting options and to provide additional photographs or viewing under controlled lighting upon request.