Low quality alexandrite may be found for as little as $500.00 a carat, but high quality alexandrite is on average around $5,000 - $10,000 per carat and may go up to as much as $15,000 per carat depending on the gemstone's clarity, cut, and, most importantly, color and color change characteristics.
Is emerald an alexandrite?
Often described by gem aficionados as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite is the very rare color-change variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Originally discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in the 1830s, it's now found in Sri Lanka, East Africa, and Brazil, but fine material is exceptionally rare and valuable.
Can alexandrite be worn everyday?
It has excellent toughness and no cleavage, which is a tendency to break when struck. This makes it a good choice for rings and other mountings subject to daily wear.