1.76 Ct. Cabochon Alexandrite from Russia

This one of a kind alexandrite presents as a translucent, oval cabochon weighing 1.76 carats, with exact dimensions of 9.39 by 5.60 by 3.32 millimeters. The cabochon profile has been executed to precise proportions, producing a well centered oval outline and a smooth dome that optimizes the gem s dichroic and color change properties. Cut as a cabochon rather than a faceted stone, this piece prioritizes color saturation and change over brilliance, allowing the intense color intensity to read cleanly across the dome. The polish is excellent, indicating careful finishing work that eliminates surface abrasion and microscopic polish lines, thereby maximizing light transmission and the visual clarity of the color change. Origin is Russia, a classic source for fine alexandrite, and there has been no enhancement, confirming natural colorants and crystallographic integrity.

Optically this alexandrite demonstrates the classic trichroic and color change behavior that defines the variety, shifting from a greenish tone in daylight to a purplish tone under incandescent or warm light sources. The transition is driven by chromium related absorption features within the chrysoberyl crystal lattice, producing a strong selective absorption band that yields an intense perceived chroma under different spectral distributions. The cabochon cut and moderate dome height of 3.32 millimeters have been chosen to enhance this effect, permitting the interior absorption to dominate rather than surface reflections, so the change reads uniformly across the face of the gem. Refractive properties typical of chrysoberyl, including a relatively high refractive index and modest birefringence, contribute to the stone s apparent depth and color saturation under direct viewing.

Clarity is graded as slightly included at eye level, a condition that is common for natural alexandrite and often acceptable among connoisseurs because such inclusions frequently confirm natural origin without compromising aesthetics. The slight inclusions are internal, not reaching the surface, and are not fractures that would threaten structural integrity. Under standard loupe magnification the inclusions are modest, and they sit within the body of the stone in a way that does not interfere with the color change or with the optical continuity of the dome. Craftsmanship techniques employed during cutting focused on preserving these internal features while removing any external stress points, resulting in a cabochon with intact girdle and a smooth transition from dome to pavilion that simplifies secure setting and reduces the likelihood of chipping during mounting.

From a durability standpoint this alexandrite is exceptionally well suited for daily wear in jewelry. As a member of the chrysoberyl group it has a Mohs hardness of approximately eight and a half, which places it well above common jewelry metals and most other gemstones in resistance to surface abrasion. Toughness is good because chrysoberyl lacks true cleavage planes, so the risk of cleavage related breakage under normal wear is low. The moderate thickness of the cabochon contributes mechanical strength and provides a margin for protective settings such as bezels, which are recommended for rings or bracelets that encounter frequent contact. Chemical and thermal stability are likewise favorable for routine use and cleaning, with the stone tolerating typical household cleaners and light exposure without color shift or degradation, though aggressive acids and extreme thermal shocks should be avoided. Given its robust hardness, lack of cleavage, stable chemistry, and thoughtful cabochon proportions, this 1.76 carat Russian alexandrite is an excellent candidate for daily wear in rings, pendants, or even durable everyday earrings, offering both the technical performance and the visual drama collectors seek, and it is offered by The Natural Gemstone Company.