Having associations with Ketu, the oppressive and antagonistic planet, Cat’s Eye Stone is immensely significant and precious.

This gemstone, representing Ketu per Vedic astrology, is known as Lehsunia, orVaiduria. The other name of this stone is Chrysoberyl Cats eye gemstone. Cat’s eye belongs to the Chrysoberyl family. Chrysoberyl is an aluminate of beryllium.

Cat’s Eye gemstone is used to establish mental peace, aid issues related to memory, and eliminate anxiety and stress.

Cat’s eye gemstone has various benefits and protects one from the evil effects of Ketu. Wearing a cat’s eye comforts a person’s worldly life by bringing wealth and better luck to the wearer. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the treatments applied to Cat’s Eye gemstones, the reasons behind these treatments, and their implications for buyers and collectors.

Understanding Cat’s Eye Gemstone

What is Cat’s Eye Gemstone?

Cat’s Eye gemstones belong to the Chrysoberyl family and after wearing primarily composed of beryllium aluminum oxide. They are typically found in greenish-yellow to brownish-yellow hues. The chatoyancy effect is caused by the reflection of light off needle-like inclusions or hollow tubes within the stone, creating a single, bright band of light across its surface.

 

History and Significance

Historically, Cat’s Eye gemstones have been revered in various cultures for their supposed protective and healing properties. In Vedic astrology, Cat’s Eye is associated with the planet Ketu (the south node of the moon) and is believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It has also been used in amulets and talismans throughout history.

 

Types of Treatments Applied on Cat’s Eye Gemstones

Gemstone treatments are employed to enhance the natural beauty of stones, making them more visually appealing and valuable. Here, we will discuss the primary treatments applied to Cat’s Eye gemstones:

 

Heat Treatment

 

Process

Heat treatment involves subjecting the gemstone to high temperatures to improve its color and clarity. For Cat’s Eye gemstones, this process can help to enhance the body color and accentuate the chatoyancy effect.

 

Benefits

  • Enhanced Color: Heat treatment can deepen the color of a Cat’s Eye gemstone, making it more vibrant and appealing.
  • Improved Clarity: By reducing the visibility of inclusions, heat treatment can increase the overall clarity of the stone.

 

Risks

  • Color Instability: In some cases, the color enhancements achieved through heat treatment may not be permanent and can fade over time.
  • Structural Damage: If not done correctly, heat treatment can cause cracks or other structural damage to the gemstone.

 

Surface Diffusion

 

Process

Surface diffusion involves heating the gemstone with certain chemicals to diffuse elements like beryllium into its surface layer. This treatment is primarily used to alter or enhance the color of the gemstone.

 

Benefits

  • Color Enhancement: Surface diffusion can produce vivid colors that are difficult to achieve through other means.

 

Risks

  • Surface Limitation: The color change is typically limited to the surface of the gemstone, which means it can wear off over time, especially if the stone is recut or repolished.
  • Detection Difficulty: Detecting surface diffusion can be challenging without advanced gemological equipment, which can make it difficult for buyers to ascertain the true nature of the gemstone.

 

Fracture Filling

Process

Fracture filling involves injecting a substance, such as glass or resin, into the cracks and fractures of a gemstone to improve its appearance by making the fractures less visible.

 

Benefits

  • Improved Clarity: This treatment significantly enhances the clarity of the gemstone, making it more visually appealing.
  • Structural Integrity: By filling the fractures, this treatment can improve the structural integrity of the gemstone.

 

Risks

  • Durability Issues: The substances used in fracture filling may not be as durable as the gemstone itself, which can lead to issues over time, especially if the stone is exposed to heat or chemicals.
  • Disclosure Requirements: Fracture filling is a significant alteration, and gem dealers are required to disclose this treatment to buyers. However, not all sellers adhere to this requirement.

 

Bleaching and Dyeing

Process

Bleaching and dyeing involve treating the gemstone with chemicals to alter its color. Bleaching can lighten the color of the gemstone, while dyeing can enhance or change its color.

 

Benefits

  • Color Customization: These treatments allow for a wide range of color options, making it possible to achieve desired hues that may not occur naturally.

 

Risks

  • Color Fading: The color changes achieved through bleaching and dyeing are often not permanent and can fade with exposure to light and chemicals.
  • Chemical Sensitivity: Bleaching and dyeing can make the gemstone more susceptible to damage from chemicals and cleaning agents.

 

Coating

Process

Coating involves applying a thin layer of material, such as polymer or another substance, to the surface of the gemstone to enhance its color and luster.

 

Benefits

  • Enhanced Appearance: Coating can significantly improve the color and luster of the gemstone, making it more attractive.
  • Cost-Effective: This treatment is relatively inexpensive compared to other methods of color enhancement.

 

Risks

  • Surface Wear: The coating is only surface-deep and can wear off over time, especially with regular use and cleaning.
  • Detection Issues: Coatings can be difficult to detect without proper gemological equipment, which can make it challenging for buyers to know if a gemstone has been treated.

 

Laser Drilling

Process

Laser drilling involves using a laser to create tiny holes in the gemstone to reach and remove inclusions. The holes are then filled with a substance that improves the appearance of the gemstone.

 

Benefits

  • Improved Clarity: Laser drilling can significantly enhance the clarity of the gemstone by removing unsightly inclusions.
  • Subtle Treatment: The treatment is often subtle and does not significantly alter the overall appearance of the gemstone.

 

Risks

  • Durability Concerns: The drilling process can create weak points in the gemstone, potentially affecting its durability.
  • Disclosure Issues: As with other treatments, it is important that laser drilling be disclosed to buyers, but this does not always happen.

 

Ethical Considerations and Disclosure

Importance of Disclosure

Gemstone treatments can significantly affect the value and longevity of a gemstone. Therefore, full disclosure of any treatments is essential for maintaining transparency and trust between sellers and buyers. Ethical gem dealers will always provide information about any treatments that a gemstone has undergone.

 

Identifying Treated Gemstones

Identifying treated gemstones can be challenging, especially for buyers without advanced gemological knowledge or equipment. However, reputable sellers often provide certification from recognized gemological laboratories, which can offer assurance about the nature and quality of the gemstone.

 

Impact on Value

Treated gemstones are generally less valuable than their untreated counterparts. However, high-quality treatments that enhance the appearance of the gemstone without significant drawbacks can still result in a beautiful and valuable piece.

 

Buying Tips for Cat’s Eye Gemstones

Research and Education

Before purchasing a Cat’s Eye gemstone, it is essential to educate yourself about the types of treatments that may be applied. Understanding the potential risks and benefits of these treatments can help you make an informed decision.

 

Seek Certification

Always seek certification from a reputable gemological laboratory. Certificates can provide valuable information about the gemstone’s characteristics, including any treatments it has undergone.

 

Choose Reputable Sellers

Buy from reputable sellers who have a track record of transparency and honesty. Reputable sellers will provide full disclosure about treatments and offer quality assurance.

 

Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the gemstone’s origin, treatments, and care instructions. A trustworthy seller will be happy to provide this information.

Cat’s Eye gemstones, with their mesmerizing chatoyancy, are a beautiful and unique addition to any collection. However, like many gemstones, they often undergo treatments to enhance their appearance and value. Understanding these treatments, their benefits, and their potential risks is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions.

Whether you are a collector, a jeweler, or simply a gemstone enthusiast, staying informed about gemstone treatments can help you appreciate the true value and beauty of your Cat’s Eye gemstone. By seeking out reputable sellers, requesting certification, and asking the right questions, you can ensure that your gemstone is a valuable and cherished addition to your collection for years to come.