Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Value Guide

Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl is a prized gemstone from Sri Lanka celebrated for its chatoyancy, an optical effect resembling a tiger's eye. Popular in Victorian jewelry, this 'golden beryl' was historically worn for protection and good luck.

What Is Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Worth?

The typical price range for Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl is $250 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The sharpness and brightness of the chatoyant band, which should be perfectly centered.
• The depth and richness of the 'honey' color, which is more desirable than pale or brownish tones.
• The presence of a clear 'milk and honey' contrast when light hits the stone from the side.
• The size and carat weight of the polished cabochon relative to its $250 price point.

How to Identify Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl?

• Observe a sharp, distinct line of light that glides across the surface as the gemstone is moved.
• Look for the 'milk and honey' effect where the stone shows two different colors on either side of the eye.
• Confirm the high hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, distinguishing it from softer quartz imitations.
• Identify the characteristic honey-yellow to greenish-yellow body color typical of Sri Lankan chrysoberyl.

History of Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl

Chrysoberyl, meaning 'golden beryl' in Greek, has been admired for centuries. The cat's eye variety, known for its unique optical phenomenon called chatoyancy, was particularly popular in Victorian jewelry. It was often believed to bring good luck and protection to its wearer.