Types of Cats Eye Stone

Cat’s eye, also called Lehsunia Ratna or Vaiduryam in Hindi, is popular for its unique appearance. The stone's surface has a striking resemblance to a cat’s eye and hence named so. This optical phenomenon is a visual delight and is thus loved as a jewelry stone. Different cultures have different assumptions about this gem. Some relate it to a talisman that wards off evil, while others believe it to be the stone of luck. In Vedic astrology, Lehsuniya is connected to the planet Ketu and is known to reduce its malefic effects. Do you know there are more captivating types of Cats' Eye stone? Let's explore each of them:

Different Types of Cat’s Eye Stone

Chatoyancy is the unique surface phenomenon possessed by the Lehsunia stone. Chatoyancy is derived from the French term “chat oeil” which means cat's eye. When light falls on the gem, it illuminates the needle-like inclusions creating a bright line that appears to be the slit of a cat's eye. This unique phenomenon is characteristic of the variety of Lehsuniya stone. Let's see which type features what:

Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl

Also known as Cymophane, this is one of the rarest and most valuable varieties of Vaiduryam stone. These gemstones are from the Chrysoberyl mineral family and hence named so. Chrysoberyl is different from the beryl mineral family, which includes emeralds and aquamarines as members. It is beryllium aluminum oxide. Besides the unique appearance of this gemstone, which has a fine Chatoyancy effect, it has a fantastic history to tell.

The Duke of Connaught gifted this chrysoberyl ring to his fiance. In Indian culture, this gemstone is referred to as the center stone for the necklace of Vishnu. The milk and honey effect of Cats Eye Chrysoberyl doubles up its rarity. This refers to the milky appearance on one side and the honey-like hue on the other.

The gemstone property of this stone is its hardness, which ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it perfect for jewelry. The spiritual meaning of the chrysoberyl cat's eye is that it protects the wearer from negative energy. These types of Cat’s eye stone are called Kanak Khet Lehsunia in Hindi and hold a significant role in Vedic astrology. It brings happiness, good fortune, and prosperity. The healing properties of this gem include improving night vision, relief from headaches, and healing kidneys, pancreas, and nervous system.

Cat's Eye Quartz

Amongst the other gemstone varieties of Vaiduryam stone, this is also popular. This stone is formed when quartz features fibrous inclusions or rutile needles, which creates a Chatoyancy effect. Though this effect is less pronounced, it still has a mesmerizing visual appeal. The color ranges from grey, brown, yellow, and green. The metaphysical property of this stone involves promoting optimism, eliminating negativity, and enhancing creativity and intuition. In Vedic astrology, Aquarius and Capricorn zodiac signs are suggested to wear this stone. The healing properties of a Cat's Eye relate to aiding relief in eye-related issues and regulating blood sugar.

Cat's Eye Alexandrite

It is another rare variety of Lehsuniya Ratna. Alexandrite itself is a rare stone and is known for its color-changing effect. Combined with the chatoyancy effect,  this rare phenomenon doubles the gem's value. It gives the gemstone an unparalleled beauty. This dual optical phenomenon makes cat’s eye jewelry very expensive. Wearing Lehsunia stone on the middle finger of the left hand for marriage helps in many ways. It removes hurdles that are responsible for delays in marriage. Besides this, it increases harmony in relationships, enhances fertility, and boosts finances.

Cat's Eye Apatite

It appears in yellow, green, blue, and violet colors. With vitreous luster, this gemstone is soft. The benefits of the Cat's Eye Stone in astrology include protection from evil energy. These gemstone varieties are associated with the planet Ketu, and wearing them helps overcome obstacles in life and brings spirituality to life. Wearing this Ketu Stone on the middle finger of the right hand brings good fortune. It is related to the Solar Plexus Chakra activation, which allows the person to enhance self-esteem and confidence.

Identifying Cat's Eye Stones

-The most important criterion for identifying the Original Lehsunia Ratna is its distinct chatoyancy phenomenon. This property is due to the presence of parallel needle-like inclusions inside the gem. When the gemstone is rotated, and the light strikes the surface, it gives an appearance of closing and opening of an eye. The more intense this feature is, the more valuable the stone is.

-A well-cut Vaidooryam stone displaying the chatoyancy phenomenon is highly desirable. The needles cut parallel to the stone are considered the perfect ones.

-Lehsuniya Ratna is a natural gemstone worn in astrology to remove the malefic effects of Ketu. It is a shadow planet, if present at a weak place in your horoscope, and is responsible for bad health, relationships, obstacles in your career, and more. Thus, one should be very cautious while choosing the Ketu Ratna. Vaiduryam stones are not transparent; they are opaque. While identifying these gems, look at this factor the most.

-Cymophane is the hardest and ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. If you rub it on a hard surface, it won't break. You can also check its identity with this hardness test.