“Poor Man’s Alexandrite” They Call Me, But I Am Rich In History And Beauty

THINK BULLFIGHTING, FLAMENCO and certain Moorish-influenced architectural styles and you’re likely to think of greater Spain. But you should actually be thinking of my original homeland, from which I take my name, and which served as their cultural cradle. “Poor man’s alexandrite” they sometimes call me, but it depends on what you mean by poor, I say, because I am rich in history and rich in beauty. And when cutters succeed in bringing out the best of my pleochroism I am unlike any other gem — full of earthy color play and distinct personality. Olé!

Who am I?