Glittering Stones » Semi Precious Stones » Cymophane

Semi Precious Stone Cymophane

The renowned gemologist Abraham Werner discovered cymophane in 1789. The yellowish green gemstone is also known as "chrysoberyl", meaning golden green colored gem. Owing to its unique cat's eye effect property, the stone derives the name cymophane. It is known for its exceptional transparency and eye clean clarity.

Physical properties of the gemstone:
The cat's eye stone has significant range of colors that includes greenish yellow, deep golden yellow, light yellow with shades of red and brown etc. The invaluable gemstone is prized for its transparent diaphaneity and incredible clarity. Vitreous luster stone is extremely attractive and it is available in wide range of shapes that includes oval, cushion, round octagon etc. Alluring gem is not subjected to any artificial treatments, in order to improve its physical properties.

Common sources of the stone:
The most common source of cymophane is the massive Ural Mountains of Russia. Other remarkable sources include India, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Madagascar and Zimbabwe.

Metaphysical properties and healing powers:
It is widely believed that the positive energies exuded by stone strengthen wearer's self confidence, self discipline, compassion and generosity. The stone stimulates the thinking abilities, promotes forgiveness and aids spiritual powers. Physically, it enhances the vision and helps to get rid from eye disorders. It plays a significant role in maintaining blood sugar level and cholesterol level.

Historical Facts of Cymophane

Refractive Index: 1.739 to 1.770

Chemical Composition: BeAl2 O4

Hardness: 8.5

Density: 3.68-3.8

Crystal Group: Orthorhombic

Luster: vitreous

Color: Yellow

Ocurrence: Brazil and Sri Lanka

Gemstone care:
Though the stone is extremely hard, it must be handled with great care. The dust on the gem must be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, instead of wiping with hard cloth, since it leads to scratches on the surface of the stone. Cymophane is heat sensitive gem, so subjecting it to steam cleaners or ultraviolet cleaners may harm the luster of the stone. If it is placed with other harder gems such as diamonds and rubies, it may get damaged, so it is much recommended to store the gemstone in a separate fabric lined wooden box.

Gem Stones Cymophane Jewelry