How durable is alexandrite?

Alexandrite seems incredibly durable, and it makes sense for everyday wear too, with hardness around 8.5 on the Mohs scale, plus great tenacity coming from its sturdy chrysoberyl crystal structure.

Compared with gentler, easily damaged colour-change stones, alexandrite does not have cleavage, so it resists breaking apart or shattering when it gets hit. Because of these strong physical traits, it does not truly demand very special protective settings, so it becomes a secure and practical option for heirloom jewellery and also for rings you wear daily.