Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl
Cat's Eye (Chrysoberyl)
A variety of Chrysoberyl
What is Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl?
An extremely rare — and therefore highly valuable — gem, cat's Eye Chrysoberyl is very popular in men's jewelry. This material is found only in a few localities around the world. The gem made from cat's Eye Chrysoberyl exhibits the phenomenon known as chatoyancy, or the cat's eye effect.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.746-1.763
- Birefringence
- 0.007-0.013
- Pleochroism
- Yellow stones- weak: colorless, light yellow, yellow-green
- Green stones- weak: yellowish, olive-yellow, colorless
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive or negative
- Dispersion
- 0.015
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Localities Map
See where Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Yellow, yellowish green, golden brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 8.5
- Density
- 3.7 - 3.78 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- BeAl2O4
- Elements
- Al, Be, O
Also Known As
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Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl FAQs
How do I identify Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl?
Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl can be identified by its hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, Yellow color, Vitreous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl?
Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl typically appears in Yellow, yellowish green, golden brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl?
Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
