admin answers:

Since the late 1800's, a type of imitation alexandrite has been on the market. This was actually a synthetic corundum, treated with vanadium to give it its characteristic color change effect. Unfortunately, the color change was not a true imitation of the natural alexandrite and was fairly easy to identify by a good gemologist.

Since 1973, however, true synthetic alexandrite has been produced by both the flux-melt and pulled crystal methods. And while the characteristic inclusions should give it away to a qualified gemologist, more than one retail jeweler has been fooled by this excellent synthetic alexandrite.

If you want to know about NATURAL alexandrite, try this site: www.gemstone.org/gem-by-gem/english/alex.html . And about synthetic alexandrite, you can try the following URL :
www.yourgemologist.com/syntheticalexandrite.html

admin answers:

Try making it into a blingy ring, or a cute necklace! Any setting where the edge is banded like a pendant would beseems to be the answer.

admin answers:

On average, Alexandrite is far more expensive than a Yellow Sapphire. In fact, Yellow Sapphires are one of the lesser expensive Sapphires.

A big thing though, is what is the "grade" of the Alexandrite. How is the "color-change" and what is the origin? Brazilians demand higher dollar than Madagascar.

admin answers:

Alexandrite is a stone for experts, enthusiasts and connoisseurs, a true understatement stone. Its uniqueness and high value are not evident at first sight. The mysterious color change will only occur on exposure to different light sources. But if you really get involved in alexandrite, you will be utterly fascinated by this gem.

Maybe you will also feel some of the mysterious magic and lore ascribed to it. It is considered a stone of very good omen. In critical situations, it is supposed to strengthen the wearer’s intuition, and thus help him or her find new ways forward in situations where logic will not provide an answer. Alexandrite is also reputed to aid creativity and inspire the imagination.

admin answers:

Check out the link below. It leads to a gemstone reference that lists all the gemstones and states which hardness (on the Moh's scale) they are. Quartz (Amethyst, Citrine) are a 7 which I would say is the lowest to go for every day wear. Even then, they will eventually scratch, depending how you treat them.

Topaz is an 8 which is better. Sapphire and Ruby are 9, so even harder. Alexandrite is 8.5 and that should be fine for everyday use, but Peridot, I consider too soft for every day wear.

For more on the hardness of gemstones, visit:   http://www.gemselect.com/gem-info/gem-hardness-info.php