8 Most Popular Alexandrite Jewelry Designs
Written by The Mark Henry Staff, December 2020
In 2004, Mark Henry went into business with an extremely bold proposition: design an entire jewelry collection focused on one of the rarest and least understood gems on the planet, the natural alexandrite. At the time, alexandrites were only used occasionally for a discerning and rebellious clientele who understood the rarity and uniqueness of the gem. Today, awareness and availability of the stone still dwarfs that of diamonds, rubies and other well-known gemstones, however, Mark Henry has distinguished itself as the leading purveyor of this gem and helped increase its popularity. We hope you enjoy this catalogue of some of the most iconic Mark Henry designs, which offer an enticing blend of sophistication and elegance.
Mark Henry’s Signature Ring was the centerpiece of their first marketing campaign with esteemed Japanese Photographer, Shu Akashi. Since then, it has remained a timeless classic and consistent best seller. An alexandrite sits at the center of this carefully crafted ring featuring a halo of glittering round and baguette diamonds. Watch in awe as the light interacts with the alexandrite and displays its different hues while the diamonds sparkle from every facet. Mark Henry’s designer wanted simple and elegant design to allow for the alexandrite center stone to do all the talking. Because of its popularity Mark Henry, later on designed the same ring in a smaller setting, which is coined Petite Signature Ring, while the original design got renamed to the Grande Signature Ring.
The Hope Pendant is one of Mark Henry’s best-selling pendants as it is an ode to the adage that when one is in an optimistic state of mind they are sure to attract positive outcomes in life. The geometric lines and subtle curves make the alexandrite center stone appear to be floating in air. A timeless everyday staple for your jewelry wardrobe, the hope pendant pairs beautifully with a variety of outfits.
Mark Henry’s Petite Compass Pendant is a symbol of independence and self-reliance, and is also meant to celebrate the person who charts your course. The nautical inspired symbol features a round moonstone at the center and an assortment of alexandrites representing the four directions. Milgrain detailing can be seen etched into a thin gold frame toward the outer portion of the emblem while additional alexandrites and illuminating diamonds are scattered about. It dangles from a thin 18" rope chain and makes for a very thoughtful gift for any loved one. The pendant also has a larger version, Grand Compass Pendant.
Mark Henry’s Temptress Ring is one of the most popular recent designs. It features an oval shaped alexandrite set at the center of a shimmering diamond halo. Each side of the halo is flanked by a slightly curved alexandrite encrusted row that lends a stark contrast from the colorless white diamond set throughout the ring. The split shank is accented with additional diamonds offering even more sparkle to this already decadent design. You'll notice a thin metal border etched with milgrain finishing along the outskirts of the gem embellished portions.
A truly iconic piece, the Petite Sphere of Life Necklace features an alternating arrangement of round shaped alexandrites and diamonds forming a full circle, and dangling from a delicate 18" cable link chain. The strategic choice of using round cut alexandrites, known to be harder to cut, perfectly fits within the theme of circular symmetry. The chain can be worn at an adjustable length of 16" to accommodate different necklines, making this a versatile piece and a perfect staple for any wardrobe. The necklace is also offered in a larger version, Sphere of Life Necklace.
Moonstone and alexandrite share June as their birthstone month. They also share the classification as ‘phenomenal’ gemstone due to their striking optical effects. This is why Mark Henry debuted the moonstone and alexandrite collection in 2015. Mark Henry’s Solstice Ring features a glowing moonstone set at the center of the sun themed design. Each ray protruding from the center is set with an assortment of alexandrites and sparkling white diamonds. The ring is the perfect size to be worn alone on your ring or middle finger. Watch as the soft, billowy blue sheen dances across the surface of the moonstone while the alexandrites change hues with each movement of the hand. We love the way this looks coupled together with the matching earrings or necklace.
Mark Henry’s Bouquet Earrings are from a newly designed collection named The Reverie Collection. The allure of the reverie collection is its accessible price point and unique design. These earrings are a best seller for new-to-alexandrite collectors who want to get a taste of the gem without having to commit to a large investment piece. The earring features a pair of oval alexandrites set amongst a bevy of sparkling white diamonds. They can be worn day or night to show off the multiple hues that make the alexandrite so special.
Mark Henry’s Eleonore Ring features an oval shaped alexandrite set between a shimmering halo of round diamonds. Along the shank you'll find a slightly recessed row of pavé set alexandrite melee accented by two outer rows of additional round diamonds.
