Exhibits the 'Alexandrite Effect'—appearing bluish-green to grass-green in daylight or fluorescent light and shifting to raspberry-red or purplish-red...
Chemical formula
BeAl₂O₄ + Cr³⁺ (Beryllium Aluminum Oxide with trace Chromium)
Chrysoberyl • Chrysoberyl
Cat’s-Eye Chrysoberyl (Cymophane)
Golden honey, greenish-yellow, to olive-brown body color bisected by a razor-sharp silvery-white band of light (chatoyancy), often showing the coveted 'milk and honey' effect when lit from the side.
BeAl₂O₄ with parallel microscopic rutile/growth tubesMohs 8.5 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Chrysoberyl |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Chrysoberyl |
| Gemological Variety | Cat's-Eye Chrysoberyl (Cymophane) |
| Chemical Composition | BeAl₂O₄ with parallel microscopic rutile/growth tubes |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Mohs Hardness | 8.5 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.70 – 3.78 |
| Refractive Index | 1.746 – 1.755 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Golden honey, greenish-yellow, to olive-brown body color bisected by a razor-sharp silvery-white band of light (chatoyancy), often showing the coveted 'milk and honey' effect when lit from the side.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Recovered primarily from alluvial gem gravels in Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, and Madagascar.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
The benchmark for chatoyancy in the gem world; collectors look for a centered, unsplit eye and a translucent honey body.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Precision high-domed cabochons for men's and women's rings.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Natural honey and green tones are untreated; dark brown stones are occasionally irradiated to mimic golden tones and must be disclosed.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Very durable (8.5 Mohs); wash with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Known as 'Lehsunia' or 'Vaidurya' in South Asian tradition, associated with foresight, protection, and focus.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Chrysoberyl
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