Chrysoberyl

Chrysoberyl is one of the most enigmatic of gemstones. Of its 3 principal varieties, two are well-known and highly prized in the jewelry trade; but the third is hardly ever seen. The well-known varieties, catseye and alexandrite (birthstones for June), are among the most expensive of all gemstones. The third, faceted chrysoberyl, is equally rare and beautiful, yet is one of the least expensive. All three varieties are among the hardest and most durable of gems.

The chief localities for chrysoberyl are Sri Lanka and Brazil. The colors include brown, yellow, green, and mixtures of these three colors or intermediate shades. Browns are considered less desirable. Faceted stones over 10 carats are rare, over 20 carats extremely hard to obtain, and clean stones over 30 carats are museum pieces. Yet these magnificent and scarce gemstones are priced at several hundred dollars per carat. This is amazing considering the fact that the other varieties, alexandrite and catseye, may wholesale for $3,000 to $15,000 per carat or more!

The hardness of chrysoberyl is 81/2, versus the 9 of ruby and sapphire and 10 of diamond. Chrysoberyl therefore is extremely brilliant when cut and wears about as well as any known gemstone. It is highly probable that the jewelry trade, always looking for "new" products, will "discover" faceted chrysoberyl in the near future. The resulting demand for jewelry-size stones (1-5 carats), which are available in quantity, will build a strong base upon which the larger, much rarer stones can appreciate in value.