Why Alexan­drite Is So Special

Alexandrite is often the benchmark for color-changing gems because:

• It shows strong, dramatic switches between two very different colors (green to red) under distinct lighting.

• Natural, gem-quality alexandrite is very rare, especially in sizes above 1 carat with clean clarity and vivid color change.

• Because of its rarity and the difficulty of finding stones with balanced color-change, its price per carat tends to be high.

(Note: synthetic or lab-created versions exist, but they typically cost much less and may not carry the same prestige or resale value.)

Opals as Color Changing Gems

While alexandrite, garnet, and sapphire are the most famous color changing gems, opals deserve a spotlight for their breathtaking optical effects. Unlike alexandrite’s dramatic shift between two hues, opals display a phenomenon called play-of-color—a dazzling rainbow of flashes that move across the stone as it catches the light. This occurs because of silica spheres inside the opal that diffract light, creating shifting patterns of red, green, blue, and violet.

Precious opals from Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico are especially prized for their vibrant play-of-color. Because no two opals are alike, they’re among the most unique color changing gems you can own, though they require extra care (Mohs hardness ~5.5–6.5) to avoid scratches and chips.

Are Color Changing Gems Durable?

If you’re considering a color-changing gemstone for jewelry (especially rings), it’s important to know about durability:

• Some gems (like alexandrite and sapphire) score high on the Mohs hardness scale (around 8.5-9), meaning good scratch resistance.

• Others (depending on gem type and treatment) may be softer or more prone to damage if worn daily.

• Proper setting (protective bezel or prong settings), occasional cleaning, and avoiding harsh impacts prolong their beauty.

Are Color Changing Gems Worth the Investment?

Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking of buying one:

Pros:

• Unique & dramatic — you get two (or more) looks in one stone.

• Rarity gives them collector appeal; good stones can appreciate.

• Excellent conversation pieces; very personal jewelry.

Cons:

• Premium pricing; great color change = high cost.

• Under the “wrong” lighting, the effect can be subtle; the gem might look more ordinary in dim or artificial light.

• Might require more care if used in jewelry that gets daily wear (rings, bracelets).

Color Changing Gems at Arnold Jewelers (Tampa & Largo Area)

Here’s how we do it differently at Arnold Jewelers, to make sure you see the magic before you commit:

• Carefully source natural alexandrite, color-change garnet, and sapphires.

• No pressure guidance — our staff will show you gems under different lights, explain what to look for, help you find something beautiful within your budget.

• Custom settings available, so you can design a ring or piece that not only shows the color shift well but also protects the gem.

• Transparent disclosure of treatment, origin, and grading so you’re fully informed.

Tips for Buying & Caring for Color Changing Gems

1. Always view in natural and incandescent light — this reveals the true color change.

2. Ask about origin and treatment — both can affect price and beauty.

3. Check for strong change — green ↔ red or blue ↔ violet contrasts are more desirable.

4. Choose secure settings — ring settings that protect edges help reduce damage.

5. Clean gently — avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning unless the gem is confirmed durable and treated for such cleaning.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something truly special, color changing gems deliver extraordinary beauty that changes with light and moment. They’re expressive, rare, and personally meaningful.

At Arnold Jewelers in Largo / Tampa Bay, we take pride in helping our clients find stones that not only dazzle but last — with transparency, honest pricing, and a no-pressure environment.