What color is top-quality alexandrite in daylight?

Top-quality alexandrite is prized for its unique color-changing property, which is most vividly displayed in daylight conditions. In natural light, a fine alexandrite typically exhibits a bluish-green hue. This characteristic color is due to the presence of chromium in the crystal structure, which influences how light interacts with the gemstone. High-quality specimens display a strong, vibrant saturation of this bluish-green color, making them particularly sought after for jewelry and collections.

While other colors are associated with alexandrite, such as yellowish green or deep green, they do not represent the ideal quality spectrum for this gem. The changing color of alexandrite, from bluish-green in daylight to red or purplish-red under incandescent light, further adds to its allure and value, setting it apart from other stones. Dark blue would not be representative of the typical daylight appearance of top-quality alexandrite, making bluish-green the most accurate description.