Chrysoberyl is one of the most unique gemstones in the world. The stone’s name is derived from the Greek words “chrysos” which means “gold,” and “beryllos” which means “crystal.” It’s a perfect stone that makes a gorgeous statement in any piece of jewelry. We’ll take a look at the stone’s fascinating history, as well as some interesting facts that you probably never knew.

Discovery of Chrysoberyl Gemstones

Miners first discovered chrysoberyl back in 1789. German geologist and teacher in the Freiburg School of Mining Abraham Gottlob Werner described and named the newly unearthed stone. The stone gained popularity during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, especially in Spain and Portugal. But unfortunately, chrysoberyl soon became more and more scarce, affecting its prevalence.

For a long time chrysoberyl was known as chrysolite, a term which encompassed stones that were either yellow or green. But soon the chrysolite name went out of fashion, and people stopped using it altogether.

The stone is most often found in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Southern India, Brazil, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania.

Varieties of Chrysoberyls

There are multiple types of chrysoberyls. The most common is yellowish-green and ranges from translucent to transparent. The common chrysoberyl’s yellowish-green hue is caused by iron. It is most often found in Brazil. Alexandrite and cat’s eye are also part of the same group.

A common misconception is that chrysoberyls are related to beryl gemstones. The truth is that the similarity in name is simply a matter of semantics. 

Fun Facts

1. Chrysoberyl that is fine-faceted is often sold as an alternative to yellow sapphire, citrine, yellow topaz, or peridot.
2. The gemstone has an 8.5 rating on the hardness scale, making it a very durable and hard stone.
3. Some believe that the stone can bring wearers keen perception, clarity, and strength. It is also believed that the stone can help with decision making and can help with healing as well.
4. Cat’s eye is believed to protect wearers from the evil eye and gives them long lives. One myth states that people who have dreamt of a cat’s eye were involved in treachery in some way.
5. Many people tend to confuse chrysoberyl for the mineral beryl because of their names, but they are incredibly different stones. Beryl gems are much softer and are a silicate of beryllium and aluminum.
6. The Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. is home to two gorgeous chrysoberyl stones. One is 113 carats, and the other is 120 carats.

Thinking of selling your chrysoberyl or gemstone jewelry? Contact Ralph Mueller and Associates or call us at 480.949.9229 for more information. We purchase gold, diamonds, and jewelry in Arizona and nationwide and are certified by the GIA.