The
chrysoberyl family comes in three varieties:
alexandrite, cat’s-eye, and chrysoberyl.
While chemically alike, they are quite distinct
in their optical characteristics and bear no
resemblance to one another.
Cat’s-eye
chrysoberyl is known for its reflected light
effect called “chatoyancy.” This
effect is achieved by cutting stones which have
very small, parallel “silk” inclusions
into cabochons (dome shapes, not faceted). As
the gem is rotated, it exhibits a distinct, silvery
white line across its dome which seems to open
and close like a cat’s eye.
Cat’s-eye
is a translucent gem ranging in color from a
honey yellow or honey brown to yellowish green
to an apple green.
It has long
been used as a charm to guard against evil spirits,
and one can understand why, given the pronounced
eye effect (the eye could see all, and it watched
out for its wearer). It was also believed that
to dream of cat’s-eye signified treachery.
It has also symbolized long life.
Cat’s-eye
chrysoberyl is found mainly in Sri Lanka and
Brazil.
