How To Buy High Quality Cats Eye Gemstone In India?

 

Cats Eye gemstone is a costly and valuable stone because of its association with the planet Ketu. Ketu is a planet which has essential powers to affect the lives of living ascendants. It is said that wearing cat eye stone ushers the blessings of the planet Ketu in your lives.

However, it is hard to obtain high-quality cat’s eye stone due to the absence of legit gem sellers and the abundance of fake gem sellers.

And this issue of finding a natural cats eye stone becomes more challenging, especially in India. Since it is very hard to spot rich quality cat’s eye or other stones in India.

Therefore, it becomes extremely hard for a layman or gemstone lover to purchase the original stone. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to look for when buying a high-quality Cat’s Eye gemstone in India.

 

1. Understanding Cat’s Eye Gemstone: What Is It?

Cat’s Eye is a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, characterized by its unique optical phenomenon called chatoyancy, which resembles the slit eye of a cat. The most common colors of Cat’s Eye are honey-colored, yellowish-green, and grayish-green. The gemstone is often associated with the planet Ketu in Vedic astrology, known for its ability to remove negative energies and enhance spiritual well-being.

 

The Unique Chatoyancy Effect

The chatoyancy effect, or the ‘cat’s eye effect,’ is the most defining characteristic of this gemstone. This effect is caused by the reflection of light off needle-like inclusions within the stone, which are usually parallel. When a light source is moved across the stone, a bright line of light appears to move across the surface, resembling a cat’s eye opening and closing.

 

2. Importance of Authenticity: Natural vs. Synthetic Cat’s Eye Gemstone

When purchasing a Cat’s Eye gemstone in India, it’s crucial to distinguish between natural and synthetic stones. Natural Cat’s Eye gemstones are formed in nature and are rare, making them highly valuable. Synthetic stones, on the other hand, are man-made in laboratories and lack the unique natural properties and energy of the authentic gemstone.

 

Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Cat’s Eye

• Color and Clarity: Natural Cat’s Eye stones typically have a distinct color and a sharp, well-defined eye. Synthetic stones may have a duller color and less distinct chatoyancy.
• Inclusions: Natural stones will often have natural inclusions, which are visible under magnification. Synthetic stones might have air bubbles or an overly perfect appearance.
• Energy: The metaphysical properties of a natural Cat’s Eye cannot be replicated in synthetic stones. Authentic Cat’s Eye is believed to carry the energies of Ketu, which can’t be duplicated.

 

How to Verify Authenticity

• Certificate of Authenticity: Always request a gemological certificate from a reputed lab or a recognized Indian gem lab. This certificate ensures that the gemstone is natural and provides details about its origin and characteristics.
• Expert Consultation: Consider consulting with a certified gemologist or an astrologer who specializes in gemstones to ensure the authenticity and suitability of the stone.

 

3. Factors to Consider When Buying a Cat’s Eye Gemstone

To buy a high-quality Cat’s Eye gemstone in India, you need to be aware of several critical factors that determine the quality and value of the stone.

 

1. Color

The color of the Cat’s Eye gemstone plays a significant role in its quality and value. High-quality Cat’s Eye stones usually have a distinct and vibrant color. The most sought-after colors are honey-yellow and golden brown. However, the value also depends on the clarity and sharpness of the ‘eye.’

 

• Honey-colored: Often regarded as the best and most valuable, these stones exhibit a warm golden hue.
• Greenish-yellow or greenish-brown: These are also popular, with their value determined by the intensity and richness of the color.

 

2. Chatoyancy (The Cat’s Eye Effect)

The strength of the chatoyancy is a key indicator of quality. A high-quality Cat’s Eye will have a well-defined, bright line of light running across the stone. The line should move smoothly when the stone is rotated under a single light source.

 

• Sharpness of the Eye: A sharp and distinct eye is more desirable and indicates a high-quality stone.
• Movement of the Eye: The eye should move across the surface with the rotation of the stone, indicating a well-cut and high-quality gem.

 

3. Clarity

While inclusions are common in Cat’s Eye gemstones, they should not be so prominent that they affect the stone’s appearance or diminish the cat’s eye effect. High-quality Cat’s Eye stones will have inclusions that contribute to the chatoyancy but do not overshadow the stone’s beauty.

 

• Types of Inclusions: Look for inclusions that enhance the chatoyancy. Avoid stones with cracks, chips, or too many visible inclusions, as these can affect the durability and appearance of the stone.

 

4. Carat Weight

Like all gemstones, the weight of a Cat’s Eye stone is measured in carats. Larger stones are rarer and more expensive. However, the quality should not be sacrificed for size. A smaller, high-quality Cat’s Eye is often more valuable than a larger, lower-quality stone.

 

• Value Per Carat: The value of Cat’s Eye gemstones increases significantly with carat weight, especially for stones with exceptional color and chatoyancy.

 

5. Cut

The cut of the Cat’s Eye gemstone plays a crucial role in maximizing its chatoyancy. The stone is typically cut into a cabochon (a smooth, rounded shape) to enhance the cat’s eye effect. The symmetry of the cut and the polish should be perfect to allow the light to move evenly across the stone.

 

• Cabochon Cut: This is the preferred cut for Cat’s Eye, as it enhances the chatoyancy. Ensure the cut is symmetrical and well-proportioned.

 

6. Origin

The origin of the Cat’s Eye gemstone can also influence its quality and price. Sri Lanka, Brazil, and India are some of the top sources of high-quality Cat’s Eye gemstones.

 

• Sri Lankan Cat’s Eye: Known for their superior quality, Sri Lankan stones often command higher prices.
• Indian Cat’s Eye: India also produces high-quality stones, especially from states like Orissa and Tamil Nadu.

4. Where to Buy High-Quality Cat’s Eye Gemstone in India?

India has a rich tradition of gemstone trading, and several reputable sources can provide high-quality Cat’s Eye gemstones. However, it’s essential to buy from trustworthy and certified sellers to ensure the authenticity and quality of the stone.

 

1. Trusted Jewelers and Gemstone Dealers

• Gemstone Marketplaces: Cities like Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi are well-known for their gemstone markets, where you can find a wide variety of Cat’s Eye gemstones. However, ensure you purchase from a certified dealer with a good reputation.
• Reputed Jewelers: Always buy from well-established jewelers who offer certified gemstones. 

• b. Online Gemstone Retailers

With the advent of e-commerce, buying gemstones online has become popular. However, caution is advised when purchasing online.

• Certified Online Stores: Only buy from online stores that provide certification from reputed gemological labs. 

Return Policy: Ensure the online retailer has a clear return policy if the stone does not meet your expectations or is found to be inauthentic.

 

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