1.37 Ct. Greenish Yellow Cabochon Chrysoberyl from Tanzania

This offering from The Natural Gemstone Company is a finely presented, translucent chrysoberyl weighing 1.37 carats, fashioned into an oval cabochon measuring 7.09 by 5.37 by 4.22 millimeters. The stone displays a delicate greenish yellow hue with medium color intensity, and the cabochon cut has been executed to emphasize a pronounced chatoyant band that sweeps across the dome. Clarity has been graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, which means the stone presents a clean appearance to most viewers while retaining the structural silk or aligned inclusions that contribute to the cat eye effect. The polish is excellent, producing a smooth reflective surface without post cutting treatments, and this piece is entirely natural with no enhancement, an attribute that informed buyers prize for authenticity and long term value. The Tanzanian origin is noted on our records, and the provenance from a respected East African source adds both geological interest and collector desirability.

From a gemological perspective the cabochon shape and thickness are optimized to maximize the optical phenomenon that makes chrysoberyl cat eye specimens so desirable. The chatoyancy seen in this cabochon is caused by very fine, parallel inclusions within the crystal structure, aligned so that light is reflected as a single sharp band when viewed under a direct light source, this crisp eye is an important indicator of quality for chatoyant chrysoberyl. Clarity described as very slightly included at eye level typically means that inclusions are not distracting to the unaided eye, and in fact they are often integral to the optical character collectors seek. On the Mohs hardness scale chrysoberyl registers at 8.5, this places it substantially above common gem materials like quartz which is 7, and slightly below corundum which is 9, while diamond remains at 10 at the top of the scale. The practical meaning of that hardness rating is excellent scratch resistance for daily wear, superior durability compared with many other colored stones, and suitability for rings, pendants, and other jewelry that benefit from a balance of toughness and luster.

For the educated buyer considering this piece the combination of attributes is compelling, the natural, untreated origin, the defined chatoyancy, the medium saturated greenish yellow color, and the excellent polish together create a gemstone that performs well both as a wearable jewel and as a collector specimen. Because chrysoberyl is hard and generally tough, it handles most everyday activities well, nevertheless standard precautions are advisable to preserve the cabochon surface and the integrity of the eye. We recommend secure settings such as a bezel to protect the girdle and dome from hard knocks, and gentle cleaning with a soft brush and warm soapy water, while avoiding harsh chemicals and sudden thermal shocks. Ultrasonic cleaning may be acceptable in many cases, however because this piece contains internal features that produce its chatoyancy we advise that cleaning and inspection be performed by a professional jeweler if there is concern about trapped debris or damage. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the description and origin stated for this specimen, and we are pleased to provide additional high resolution images, certification options, and setting recommendations on request, this chrysoberyl represents a rare opportunity to acquire a natural, finely finished cabochon with distinct optical character, strong durability, and transparent provenance.