3.36 Ct. Cabochon Alexandrite from India

This translucent 3.36 carat alexandrite presented by The Natural Gemstone Company is a rare and intriguing specimen, measured at 7.73 by 7.47 by 6.13 millimeters, and fashioned into a rounded cabochon that emphasizes its color changing properties. The stone displays a clear shift from bluish green in daylight or fluorescent lighting to a reddish purple under incandescent illumination, a hallmark of true alexandrite and a primary determinant of desirability among connoisseurs. The cabochon cut is particularly appropriate for this material, as the domed profile enhances the viewer s perception of the changing hues, concentrates the saturated zones of color, and produces smooth, uninterrupted color transitions across the surface. The piece is described as translucent rather than fully transparent, which is consistent with cabochon alexandrite sizing in this weight class, and the polish on the dome is excellent, producing clean reflections and an appealing surface luster without detracting from the color phenomenon. There has been no enhancement to this gem, indicating that the color and body tone are natural, and the origin is India, a source known for producing alexandrite material with strong, attractive color change at reasonable price points relative to historical Russian material.

From a gemological perspective the value of this alexandrite derives from a combination of color change strength, color tone, clarity, cut, and provenance. The pronounced color change here is driven by chromium substitution in the chrysoberyl crystal lattice, producing differential absorption of wavelengths under different spectral lighting conditions, which is the scientific explanation for the alexandrite effect. This specimen exhibits intense color intensity, which means the saturation of both the greenish and the reddish faces of the stone is strong and appealing, without being so dark as to lose detail. The clarity grade is described as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, which for an educated buyer indicates minor inclusions that are visible only on close inspection and that do not materially affect the gem s transparency, structural integrity, or the perception of color change. In practical terms, the combination of intense color, good translucency, and limited inclusions makes this material particularly attractive for display or jewelry, as it balances visual impact with durability.

For buyers who assess gemstones with both aesthetic and investment criteria in mind, this alexandrite has several attributes that increase its appeal. Size and weight are important, and at 3.36 carats this round cabochon is noteworthy, because larger alexandrite specimens that show a clear and attractive color change become exponentially rarer as carat weight increases. The cabochon cut is the most effective way to present alexandrite color change in many cases, especially for translucent material, and the excellent polish maximizes the stone s surface presentation. The absence of enhancement is a significant factor in value, since untreated alexandrite with a strong natural color change is typically more desirable to collectors and fine jewelry designers than treated material. India as the reported origin adds provenance that many buyers prefer, and while Russian alexandrite carries historic prestige, Indian sources are respected for delivering strong color change at accessible price levels, making this specimen a compelling choice for a buyer seeking both quality and value. The hardness of chrysoberyl, approximately 8.5 on the Mohs scale, also means the gem is durable enough for daily wear when set properly, particularly in protected settings. If you would like additional photographs, viewing under multiple lighting conditions, or independent verification, The Natural Gemstone Company can provide further documentation and support to help you assess this alexandrite for collection or commission grade jewelry.