
How To Identify Natural Cats Eye Gemstones? Cats eye gemstone is an excellent looking gemstone due to its chatoyancy effect. The stone appears quite identical to the eye of a cat. Therefore, it is called a cat eye gemstone or because it is an opaque stone, therefore, it is called lehsunia stone in Hindi.
The cat’s eye gemstone is a powerful gemstone which represents the celestial power of shadow planet Ketu. Its affiliation with the substantial and vengeful planet Ketu boost its demand and value.
Since Ketu is a dangerous and instinctively acting planet which can either bring positive or negative results entirely based upon Ketu existence in the respective horoscope of an individual.
Fortunately, if it exists in positive houses so it brings the fastest auspicious results in the life of its wearer.
Nevertheless, to obtain positive results offered by this stone in own life; one should wear natural cat’s eye gemstone. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of how to identify natural cat’s eye gemstones, ensuring that you can distinguish genuine stones from imitations.
Understanding Cat’s Eye Gemstones
Cat’s eye gemstones, often referred to as chrysoberyl cat’s eye, exhibit a phenomenon known as chatoyancy. This effect is caused by the reflection of light off fine inclusions or fibrous structures within the stone, creating a bright band of light across its surface. The most valued cat’s eye stones are those where the line is sharp and well-defined, typically running perpendicular to the stone’s length.
Key Characteristics of Natural Cat’s Eye Gemstones
1. Chatoyancy (Cat’s Eye Effect)
- Definition: Chatoyancy is the defining feature of cat’s eye gemstones. When light strikes the stone, it reflects in a way that produces a bright, narrow band of light across its surface.
- Evaluation: To evaluate the chatoyancy, move the stone under a direct light source. A natural cat’s eye gemstone will display a sharp, well-defined line that appears to move or “open and close” like a cat’s eye as the stone is rotated.
2. Color
- Range: Natural cat’s eye gemstones can range in color from honey yellow to greenish-yellow, brown, and even green.
- Consistency: Genuine stones typically have a consistent color without any zones of different colors or uneven patches.
3. Transparency
- Quality: High-quality cat’s eye gemstones are usually translucent to opaque. A completely transparent stone is rare and often not genuine.
4. Inclusions
- Natural Inclusions: Natural cat’s eye stones will have inclusions that cause the chatoyancy effect. These inclusions are often in the form of fine, parallel rutile needles.
- Synthetic Indicators: If a stone appears flawless under magnification, it may be synthetic. Natural stones will exhibit some inclusions.
5. Hardness
- Scale: Cat’s eye chrysoberyl ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is a very durable stone, suitable for everyday wear.
Steps to Identify Natural Cat’s Eye Gemstones
1. Visual Inspection
- Chatoyancy Check: Hold the stone under a single light source and observe the cat’s eye effect. A natural stone will display a distinct, moving band of light.
- Color Examination: Check for uniformity in color. Look out for any zoning or patchiness, which could indicate treatment or synthetic origins.
- Surface Inspection: Use a loupe to inspect the surface. Look for natural inclusions and avoid stones that appear too perfect.
2. Magnification Analysis
- 10x Magnification: Using a jeweler’s loupe, inspect the stone at 10x magnification. Natural cat’s eye gemstones will show fine, parallel inclusions causing the chatoyancy.
- Inclusion Pattern: Look for needle-like inclusions that are consistent throughout the stone. Synthetic stones might have bubbles or irregular patterns.
3. Refractive Index (RI) Measurement
- RI Values: Natural chrysoberyl cat’s eye stones have a refractive index ranging from 1.746 to 1.755.
- Tool Use: Use a refractometer to measure the RI. Deviations from the expected range can indicate synthetic materials.
4. Specific Gravity Test
- Range: The specific gravity of chrysoberyl cat’s eye is between 3.70 and 3.78.
- Testing: Use a hydrostatic balance or heavy liquid to measure the specific gravity. Significant deviations suggest the stone may not be genuine.
5. UV Light Test
- Reaction: Natural cat’s eye stones typically do not exhibit strong reactions under UV light. A strong fluorescence could indicate a synthetic stone.
- Observation: Observe the stone under both long-wave and short-wave UV light for any unusual reactions.
6. Professional Certification
- Gemological Labs: For a definitive identification, seek certification from reputable gemological laboratories .
- Report Details: Certification will provide detailed information on the stone’s authenticity, including any treatments it may have undergone.
Differentiating Natural from Synthetic and Treated Cat’s Eye Stones
1. Synthetic Cat’s Eye
- Characteristics: Synthetic stones are often too perfect, lacking the natural inclusions that cause chatoyancy in genuine stones.
- Identification: Use magnification to check for gas bubbles or lack of natural inclusions. Synthetic stones may also have a different refractive index and specific gravity.
2. Treated Cat’s Eye
- Enhancements: Treatments such as heat or radiation can enhance the color or clarity of cat’s eye stones. Dyed stones may also be on the market.
- Detection: Look for uneven color distribution or concentrations of dye along cracks or surface-reaching fractures. Treatments often leave traces visible under magnification.
Care and Maintenance of Cat’s Eye Gemstones
1. Cleaning
- Method: Clean cat’s eye gemstones with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as vibrations may damage the stone.
- Frequency: Regular cleaning helps maintain the stone’s brilliance and prevents buildup of oils and dirt.
2. Storage
- Protection: Store cat’s eye stones separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. Use a soft cloth or padded box for storage.
- Environment: Keep the stones away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight to prevent potential damage or color fading.
3. Handling
Precautions: Avoid exposing the stone to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Handle with care to prevent chipping or breaking.
Identifying a natural cat’s eye gemstone requires a keen eye and knowledge of its unique characteristics. By understanding and recognizing the key features of natural stones, such as chatoyancy, color, and inclusions, you can make informed decisions when purchasing these exquisite gems. Utilize tools like magnification, refractometers, and specific gravity tests to aid in your identification process. For absolute certainty, seek professional certification from reputable gemological laboratories. With proper care and maintenance, your natural cat’s eye gemstone will remain a stunning and cherished piece for years to come.
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