CHRYSOBERYL

Chrysoberyl is among the most brilliant of gems and its hardness is only surpassed by diamonds and corundum. The name chrysoberyl derives from the Greek, meaning “Golden Beryl”, although in reality, it is not a variety of beryl at all.

Chrysoberyl is a berylium aluminum oxide, whereas, the mineral beryl is a silicate. The crysoberyl family includes some of the most valuable and desirable gems like alexandrite and chrysoberyl cat’s eye. Chrysoberyl most commonly occurs in transparent tones of yellow and green.

THE HISTORY

Cat’s eye has the longest history of gems in the chrysoberyl family. It was treasured in Asia long ago and became quite well known in Rome by the end of the First Century.  The popularity of Cat’s Eyes sky-rocked in the 19th Century after the Duke of Connaught presented his fiance with a cat’s eye betrothal ring. Ceylon, where most of the examples of cat’s eye were mined could not keep up with the overwhelming demand.

​Chrysoberyl has been attributed with great power. It has been used to balance energies and foster meditation. Chrysoberyl has long been thought to aid with problems of the eyes and protect against the “evil” eye. It fosters improved relationships with your neighbors.  In Arabic tradition, it’s believed that the chrysoberyl could make the wearer invisible in battle.

CARING FOR CHRYSOBERYL

Because of their hardness, they are relatively easy to care for. It is sensitive to knocks and extreme heat, but can be cleaned in the ultrasonic or steamer.  And, as with most gemstones, warm soapy water is all it really needs to be cleaned.