The unique optical effect of “cat’s eye” gemstones, known as chatoyancy, is best displayed by cutting the stone into a smooth, unfaceted shape called a cabochon. Fancy faceted cuts are less common as they obscure this signature visual phenomenon.
Common Cuts and Shapes
Cabochon Cut: This is the quintessential and most highly recommended cut for any cat’s eye gemstone (especially chrysoberyl, the most valuable variety). The cutter expertly shapes the stone with a polished, rounded dome to maximize and center the sharp, shimmering band of light that resembles a cat’s slit eye.
Oval Cabochon: While round cabochons exist, the oval cabochon is particularly favored because the elongated shape can enhance the visibility and apparent movement of the chatoyant effect across the stone’s surface.
Custom/Fancy Shapes: Experienced lapidaries may create less common custom shapes like pear or heart-shaped cabochons. However, these require exceptional skill to maintain the desired optical effect.
Faceted Cuts: In general, faceted cuts (such as emerald or brilliant cuts) are not used for cat’s eye gemstones because the facets interfere with the parallel inclusions that cause the chatoyancy, thereby diminishing or eliminating the “eye” effect. Faceted chrysoberyl exists, but it does not display the cat’s eye effect and is a different type of gem altogether.
Available Cat’s Eye Gemstones (Cabochon)
Natural Quartz Cat’s Eye Oval Cabochon: This option is a more common variety, offering the distinct chatoyancy effect with a smooth polished surface.
Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eye (Cymophane) Oval Cabochon: The most prized and valuable type of cat’s eye gemstone, known for its sharp, silvery streak of light and a honey-yellow to greenish body color.
Apatite Cat’s Eye Oval Cabochon: A yellow-green variety sometimes used as a substitute for chrysoberyl cat’s eye, displaying a less pronounced but still captivating chatoyancy.