Chrysoberyl is without doubt one of the most underrated gem stones of latest a long time. This outstanding gem, identified for its yellow, inexperienced, and brownish hues, derives its identify from the Greek phrases chrysos that means “golden” and beryllos that means “gem crystal.” Though the identify ‘chrysoberyl’ was formally coined in 1790, this gemstone had already been utilized in jewelry for hundreds of years.

To not be confused with the beryl group—which incorporates emeralds, morganites, and aquamarines amongst others—chrysoberyl is an enchanting gemstone in its personal proper. Recognized for its distinctive brilliance, it ranks because the third hardest naturally occurring gemstone on Earth, with a rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, surpassed solely by diamond and corundum.

Chrysoberyl is most well-known for the beautiful optical results exhibited by two of its varieties: cat’s-eye chrysoberyl and the colour-changing chrysoberyl referred to as alexandrite.

Styles of Chrysoberyl

A number of styles of chrysoberyl exist, every with its personal lovely and distinctive properties.

Alexandrite

Alexandrite was found in Russia in 1834 and was named after Czar Alexander II. Its extraordinary capacity to alter color—from inexperienced in daylight to pink/purple beneath incandescent gentle—captivated jewellers and the monarchy . Alexandrite grew to become a much-admired gemstone, notably in early Victorian jewelry, and its rarity has solely elevated over time.

Cat’s-Eye Chrysoberyl

The opposite notable number of chrysoberyl is cat’s-eye chrysoberyl, identified for its mesmerizing optical impact referred to as chatoyancy. This phenomenon, attributable to the gemstone’s inner construction, creates the looks of a gap and shutting eye on the dome of a cabochon-cut stone.

Cat’s-eye chrysoberyls had been extremely regarded in Asia, the place they had been typically utilized in jewelry representing the deity Vishnu and had been believed to guard the wearer from evil. Through the Edwardian and Victorian eras, the gemstone grew to become extremely modern. It reached the peak of its reputation in 1860 when the Duke of Connaught, Queen Victoria’s son, offered a cat’s-eye engagement ring to his fiancée. This occasion sparked a surge in demand, overwhelming the mines in Sri Lanka, which struggled to fulfill the requests.

Advantages and Non secular Properties of Chrysoberyl

For individuals who consider within the non secular energy of gem stones, Chrysoberyl is claimed to be a stone for brand new beginnings as it may deliver confidence and compassion. Moreover, it helps to interrupt out of damaging cycles. Additionally, chrysoberyl permits forgiveness and helps keep a balanced view. So you probably have any necessary selections to make, possibly a bit of little bit of Chrysoberyl might make it easier to out.

A Uncommon Treasure

At present, jewelers use chrysoberyl much less steadily, and collectors typically prize it. Specimens exceeding 5 carats are thought of exceptionally uncommon. Chrysoberyl’s shortage is attributed to the distinctive geological circumstances required for its formation. The presence of beryllium is important, in addition to a mineralogical surroundings, which favours the grown of those peculiarly-shaped crystals. These crystals type beneath high-pressure and high-temperature circumstances, that are comparatively unusual. Moreover, the crystals are usually small, making business mining much less viable.

The restricted availability of beryllium additional restricts the areas the place chrysoberyl could be discovered. Essentially the most well-known deposits had been in Russia’s Ural Mountains, the place alexandrite was initially found. Sadly, these deposits have been exhausted. At present, probably the most lively chrysoberyl mines are situated in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, the USA, India, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Chrysoberyl at Public sale

Chrysoberyl is a flexible gemstone with a number of engaging varieties. Its hardness and distinctive optical properties make it a fascinating alternative for jewelry and collectors alike.

Lot 513

Cat’s-eye chrysoberyl cabochon, 2.43ct

Estimate: £60 – £90

Lot 514

Assorted cat’s-eye chrysoberyl, 20.22ct

Estimate: £50 – £80

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Arianna Pedrazzoli BA (Hons), MLitt, FGA | Gemstone Supervisor