Identifying Your Mysterious Ring: Is It Alexandrite?

Question
Hello,

I have a ring I purchased in Mexico, didn't know what it was when I purchased it and the jeweler wasn't sure. It was greenish blue in the store, took it outside and it turned very green, in the hotel hallway it turned a purple red color - since I have seen it go from green to blue to purplish red.

The only thing close that I have found on line is an Alexandrite. I'm curious to find out if it is in fact an Alexandrite (natural or synthetic) and if it is worth anything.

It is currently set in silver but if valuable I want to change the setting.

I am willing to take this in for an appraisal but a little concerned about (A) Taking it to someone who is not familiar with Alexandrites and therefore wasting my time & money to get an incorrect answer. (B) Sending it out - I don't want to risk sending it out and it not coming back and I wouldn't know how much to insure it for since I don't know the value of it.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Kathy


Answer
Hello,

It is most likely synthetic corundum (ruby).  If it is real clear with no flaws then it is most likely synthetic.  Also if it is large in size that would indicate synthetic.  A picture would help me.

Alexandrite is not very pretty unless top top quality. Then it is very very rare and very very expensive.

There are other stones like sapphire or garnets that change color as well.

To know for sure it should be tested by a gemologist.

Regards,

Steven D.Covey