Are you curious about the value of alexanderite jewelry you may have? Many gems, such as alexanderite stones, gain value over time due to their uniqueness and rarity, making them a great way to turn your jewels into cash. Here are insights in how to get the best value for attractive gems such as alexandrite stones.

How Gems Like Alexanderite Are Valued

The value of a gem is based on multiple factors such as source, size, clarity and condition. One of the most unique and stunning characteristics of alexandrite stones is that they change color under different types of lighting. The gemstone may look one way in natural sunlight and have a different appearance under LED lights.

These gems are divided into natural and synthetic categories, as they can be created in a lab. The primary source of alexandrite stones these days is from antique jewelry. Both natural and synthetic gemstones may command a high price, but if you come across low-priced alexandrite stones, chances are they are synthetic.

One way a specialist from a gemological lab determines the difference between natural and synthetic versions is that natural alexandrite is usually unclean and untreated. It commands value based more on visual effect than its clarity. The top values of alexandrite can be appraised over $50,000 per carat. Most alexandrite stones weigh under one carat. 

Why Alexandrites Are Especially Valued

Alexandrites can shift in a range of colors from red to green, although many exhibit minimal change. A major component of their value is the degree to which they are able to shift between pure red to pure green. Some of these gems lean toward brown, violet or purple. The more the color shift is evident, the higher the value.

The value of alexandrite stones is partly based on the fact these unique alternative gems  are generally rare. According to the International Gem Society, alexandrites are among the rarest gemstones. They are comprised of beryllium and chromium, similar to emerald. But these two elements are rarely found in the same rock formations. Most of the original source of alexandrites was exhausted within a few decades of discovery in the nineteenth century.  

Getting the Most for Your Alexanderite 

If your goal is to sell your alexanderite jewelry for maximum value, it's best to work with an experienced and certfied gemologist. Our gemologists are GIA-certified, meaning that you know you'll be getting the best care and financial gain from selling your precious gems with us. For more information, contact us today.