Chrysoberyl is one of the most underrated gemstones in the market. Best known for two spectacular varieties: alexandrite, which changes color from green to red, and cat's eye, which displays a sharp line of light across the stone. Both are exceptionally rare. We source our chrysoberyls from partner mines in Sri Lanka, Brazil and East Africa. Direct, no middlemen. What makes these stones special? Hardness and durability rivaling sapphire, combined with optical phenomena you won't find in any other gem. Cat's eye effect should be sharp and centered, alexandrite should show a dramatic color shift. See what we have in stock below or tell us what you're looking for.
Chrysoberyl is one of the most durable and fascinating gemstone species in existence, yet it remains remarkably under-appreciated by the general public. With a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale -- surpassed only by corundum and diamond -- chrysoberyl is the third-hardest natural gemstone on Earth. Its family includes two of the most extraordinary optical phenomena in all of gemology: the cat's eye effect (chatoyancy) of chrysoberyl cat's eye and the dramatic color change of alexandrite. Transparent faceted chrysoberyl, in warm yellowish-green to golden hues, is the variety featured in this collection.
Faceted chrysoberyl displays a range of attractive warm colors, from light yellowish-green to deep golden yellow and honey-toned amber. The most prized transparent chrysoberyls show a vivid, saturated yellowish-green with excellent clarity and a lively brilliance enhanced by the stone's high refractive index. Some specimens exhibit a subtle color shift between daylight and incandescent light, hinting at their genetic relationship to alexandrite. The overall impression is one of warmth, vitality, and understated sophistication.
At 8.5 on the Mohs scale, chrysoberyl is harder than spinel, topaz, and all garnets. This exceptional hardness, combined with excellent toughness and no cleavage concerns, makes it one of the most practical gemstones for everyday jewelry. Chrysoberyl rings can withstand decades of daily wear with minimal risk of scratching or damage -- a quality that makes it an intelligent choice for engagement rings and pieces intended for constant use.
Fine transparent chrysoberyl is scarcer than many better-known gemstones. While alexandrite and cat's eye chrysoberyl command the highest prices within the family, well-colored transparent faceted chrysoberyl offers remarkable beauty and durability at comparatively modest prices -- a combination that represents genuine value for informed buyers. Sri Lanka and Brazil are the primary sources, with Madagascar and Tanzania contributing smaller quantities of fine material.
JOALYS sources chrysoberyl directly from the mine, with each stone personally inspected by our GIA-trained gemologist for color quality, clarity, and cut precision. Our middleman-free supply chain ensures competitive pricing on this exceptional gemstone. Insured express worldwide shipping in sealed packaging and a 14-day money-back guarantee protect every purchase.