3.02 Ct. Alexandrite from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This alexandrite is a transparent, oval shape gem weighing 3.02 carats, a weight that moves it into a markedly rarer category for this species, and one that meaningfully increases both desirability and market value. The stone measures 10.59 by 7.72 by 4.30 millimeters, with a length to width ratio of approximately 1.37, which yields a classical oval silhouette that is well suited to ring and pendant settings where both presence and symmetry are important. The mixed brilliant cut combines a faceted crown of modified brilliant facets with a pavilion optimized for controlled light return, producing lively scintillation without sacrificing the color change characteristic that defines high quality alexandrite. Color shifts from a greenish hue in daylight to a reddish tone under incandescent light, described here as greenish to reddish with medium color intensity, and this balanced color distribution across the table and facets is integral to its visual appeal. The clarity grade is slightly included as evaluated at eye level, meaning minor inclusions are detectable to a trained viewer but do not detract from overall transparency or brilliance, and the polish is excellent, with crisp facet junctions that maximize facet contrast and polish luster.

From a gemological perspective this piece exhibits many of the technical attributes collectors and advanced buyers prioritize. The mixed brilliant faceting is selected specifically to preserve weight while delivering strong return of both color and sparkle, a consideration that becomes more critical as carat weight increases. The stone has a measured depth of 4.30 millimeters, producing an approximate depth proportion of 47 percent when calculated against the average of the length and width, a depth that supports balanced light performance in an oval of these proportions. As a chrysoberyl variety, alexandrite has a refractive index range near 1.746 to 1.755 and a modest birefringence around 0.008, factors that contribute to its high refractive dispersion and firm facet separation. Specific gravity around 3.73 gives the gem a satisfying heft in hand, and the material hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale ensures durable resistance to everyday wear, while still justifying prudent care against hard knocks. The origin is Ceylon Sri Lanka, a source known for bright, lively greens and attractive color change profiles distinct from classic Russian material, and there has been no enhancement applied to this stone, an important value factor for discerning buyers.

Weight plays a decisive role in alexandrite valuation, and this 3.02 carat specimen occupies a scarce segment of the market where supply diminishes rapidly as size increases. Price per carat for alexandrite does not scale linearly with size, but rather escalates at notable thresholds, and stones that exceed 3 carats and retain good color change, acceptable clarity, and polished symmetry command premium premium multiples. The slight inclusions present here can serve as identifying characteristics without compromising the gem's overall visual impact, and the excellent polish ensures maximized optical performance and long term brilliance. For set design, this stone projects a substantial face up presence due to its spread and balanced proportions, making it particularly suitable for a centerpiece in fine jewelry where both rarity and wearability are required. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the natural origin and untreated status of this alexandrite, and our evaluation emphasizes its combination of desirable technical metrics, including weight, mixed brilliant cutting, controlled depth, and superior polish, factors that together explain its elevated market position and lasting appeal.