The name Alexanderite comes from the Russian tsar Alexander and is claimed to be one of his favorite stones. It is a natural color-change variety of the mineral chrysoberyl.

Alexandrite is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world and the prices range tremendously. The value of an Alexandrite is primarily based on the color change but it also includes the purity of the colors involved, the freedom from inclusions and the size. Cats eye stones are also occasionally available.