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Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye

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description Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye Overview

Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye, also known as cymophane, is a gemstone variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that exhibits a distinct optical phenomenon called chatoyancy. This effect creates a narrow, bright band of light across the surface of the stone, resembling a feline eye, which is caused by parallel inclusions of tiny rutile needles. To display the effect properly, the gem must be cut into a smooth, rounded cabochon rather than a faceted shape. Sri Lanka has historically been the world's foremost source of these gemstones.

help Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye FAQ

What causes the cat's eye effect in a Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye?

The cat's eye effect, known as chatoyancy, is caused by microscopic parallel inclusions of rutile or tremolite within the chrysoberyl stone. When light hits these needle-like inclusions, it creates a narrow, bright band of light that resembles a feline eye.

What is the difference between chrysoberyl cat's eye and alexandrite?

Both are varieties of the mineral chrysoberyl, but alexandrite changes color under different lighting sources, while chrysoberyl cat's eye (cymophane) does not. Cat's eye is specifically prized for its chatoyant band of light rather than color-changing properties.

What colors does Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye come in?

Chrysoberyl cat's eye is most commonly found in honey-yellow, light green, and brownish-yellow hues. The most highly valued stones typically exhibit a milky white band of light against a translucent honey-colored background.

How is a Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye gemstone cut?

To maximize the chatoyant effect, chrysoberyl cat's eye is almost always cut into a smooth, rounded cabochon. The cutter must carefully orient the stone so the parallel inclusions are perpendicular to the light band for the sharpest possible eye.

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