1.56 Ct. Alexandrite from Madagascar

This transparent 1.56 carat cushion shape yellowish green to reddish green alexandrite measures 7.26 by 7.06 by 3.72 mm, and is fashioned with a mixed brilliant cut that combines a brilliant style pavilion with a step influenced crown to balance brilliance and color saturation. The geometric faceting has been precisely laid out to allow maximum light play, optimizing facet junctions and angles so that light is returned as scintillation and color flashes rather than lost through the pavilion. In practical terms, this produces lively chatoyancy and a pronounced color change, showing yellowish green in natural daylight and shifting to a reddish green in incandescent or warm light. The intense color intensity and excellent polish amplify this effect, while the cushion outline presents generous face up area so the color change reads strongly to the eye. No enhancement has been applied, and the origin is Madagascar, a locality known for producing alexandrite material with attractive color change and clean crystal habit.

From a grading perspective, this gem is graded very slightly included evaluated at eye level, meaning that internal characteristics are minor and do not detract from overall transparency or light performance when viewed without magnification. For an educated buyer, that clarity grade combined with intense natural color and excellent polish is especially significant, because alexandrite value is most affected by genuine color change, natural origin, and the absence of treatments. The mixed brilliant faceting strategy increases apparent brilliance and contrast, which both enhances the perceptible color change and preserves weight without sacrificing optical performance. As a natural, untreated example from Madagascar, this stone represents a rare combination of clean appearance, strong color play, and well executed cutting, attributes that appeal to collectors and connoisseurs seeking long term value. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the gemology and provenance of this alexandrite, and we can advise on appropriate mounting styles that protect the girdle and pavilion while maximizing face up color, and on routine care to preserve polish and optical response.