2.93 Ct. Cabochon Chrysoberyl from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

One beautiful transparent 2.93 carat round shape greenish yellow chrysoberyl from Ceylon Sri Lanka is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, a specimen that combines classical material quality with excellent lapidary execution. The stone measures 7.20 x 6.93 x 6.10 mm, and it has been fashioned as a cabochon to maximize its optical effects and surface appeal. The intense color intensity is immediately apparent, a lively greenish yellow that sits between chartreuse and canary tones, and the transparency is such that light penetrates deeply before being reflected, producing a warm, luminous appearance. The cabochon profile is rounded and domed to enhance the single band of reflected light that defines the chatoyant effect, and the polish has been graded excellent so that surface reflections remain clean and mirror like. Importantly, this chrysoberyl is unenhanced, with no heat treatment or dyeing, a condition that educated buyers consider essential when assessing long term value and authenticity, and the Sri Lankan origin further enhances desirability because Ceylon chrysoberyl is well known for fine color and superior optical character.

The clarity grade for this gem is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which in practical terms indicates that inclusions are minimal and do not detract from the gem when viewed without magnification. Very slightly included is a strong clarity grade for a cabochon, because some internal structure is necessary to produce the chatoyancy, typically needle like or fibrous inclusions that run nearly parallel and reflect light in a single bright band. The phenomenon of chatoyancy arises when light interacts with these included structures, and the domed cabochon concentrates and aligns the reflected light into a coherent band. Chrysoberyl has a relatively high refractive index, approximately 1.746 to 1.755, and this contributes to a satiny to vitreous luster that is noticeably brighter than common silicate gems. The hardness rating on the Mohs scale is approximately 8.5, which means the stone is durable for everyday wear in rings and other jewelry, provided routine care is observed, and the combination of hardness and excellent polish produces crisp surface reflections that support both brilliance and the integrity of the chatoyant band.

When comparing reflective qualities to other gemstones in its category and to common alternatives, this chrysoberyl demonstrates a distinct balance between luster, chatoyancy, and transparency. Compared to quartz, which has a refractive index near 1.55, chrysoberyl offers markedly stronger luster and a more vivid internal reflection, resulting in a more pronounced cat eye or luminous body color. Compared to topaz with a refractive index near 1.61, chrysoberyl remains superior in brilliance and in the way it concentrates light into a single sharp band when chatoyant structures are present. Against corundum, which has a refractive index around 1.76 and is prized for its brilliance, chrysoberyl is comparable in reflective strength although its chatoyancy is more unique because corundum rarely forms the same parallel fibrous inclusions that produce a classic cat eye. Within the chrysoberyl family, this piece compares favorably to alexandrite varieties which are valued for color change rather than chatoyancy, and it is also competitive with fine cymophane type material when the chatoyancy band is tight, bright, and centered as it is in this cabochon. The combination of intense color, transparency, and a well centered eye is not automatic in chatoyant chrysoberyl, so this specimen belongs toward the higher tier within its specific category.

For the educated buyer considering investment grade natural gems, the attributes of this chrysoberyl from Sri Lanka align with long term value criteria. The weight of 2.93 carat is meaningful for a cabochon of this nature, offering presence in jewelry without sacrificing optical quality, and the precise dimensions 7.20 x 6.93 x 6.10 mm make it suitable for classic ring or pendant settings where the dome will be appreciated from multiple viewing angles. The absence of enhancements confirms that the intense color and chatoyancy are natural, which is a primary determinant of market respect and resale value, and the very slightly included clarity grade indicates that the inclusions are purposeful for effect rather than detracting blemishes. From a provenance standpoint, Ceylon chrysoberyl is historically desirable, and The Natural Gemstone Company offers documentation of origin where available to support collector confidence. For care, gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is recommended, and avoidance of ultrasonic or steam cleaning is prudent if the setting or inclusions suggest caution. This gem is an excellent choice for connoisseurs who value natural optical phenomena, high polish, and verifiable origin, and The Natural Gemstone Company is available to provide further technical details, independent lab testing options, and advice on setting styles that will best showcase the stone.