Chrysoberyl comes from the Greek word for gold, and this gem has been known since ancient times. Chrysoberyl is a valuable and hard gemstone (rating 8.5 according to the Mohs scale of hardness, just right behind corundum and diamond). It is tough and durable although lacking ‘fire’ of other gemstones. Majority of the stones are yelow, some are green or brown. All colors of chrysoberyl are faceted as gems for jewelry. Chrysoberyl deposits are in Madagascar, Brazil (Minas Gerais, Esperito Santo), Russia, United States, Myanmar (Burma) and Zimbabwe.

Another expensive form of chrysoberyl is the beautiful cat's eye variety. When shaped as cabochons, the gems display a long narrow band of concentrated light along the width of the stone (also known as cat’s eye effect). This effect is caused by microscopic needle-like inclusions in the stone. The cat's eye variety may be called "cat's eye", "precious cat's eye", "oriental cat's eye" or "chrysoberyl cat's eye". A cat's eye effect is also exhibited by many other gems, but only cat's eye of chrysoberyl enjoys the privilege of having the name "cat's eye" (or sometimes also called as cymophane). All other cat's eyes are designated by an additional name, like "quartz cat’s eye", "tourmaline cat's eye" etc. Chysoberyl cat's eyes are found in China, India, Brazil, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

Alexandrite is a rare and costly variety of chrysoberyl. It exhibits different colors in natural and artificial light. If viewed in artificial light, its color is red. If viewed in sunlight, its color is greenish-blue to dark yellow-green. Alexandrite was first discovered on the birthday of the Russian Czar Alexander II, the stone then was named in his honor. In order to make the color change most recognizable, alexandrite is faceted with the brilliant and cushion cuts. Alexandrite deposits are in Madagascar, Brazil (Minas Gerais), Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka and Tanzania.

Chrysoberyl is believed as a protective stone and has been used to keep disaster at bay. It transforms negative thoughts into positive energy. It strengthens self worth and increases self confidence. Chrysoberyl helps you to see both sides of a problem or situation. It brings generosity and compassion and encourages forgiveness. It promotes concentration and the ability to learn, enabling its wearer to think clearly and far-sightedly. Chrysoberyl brings the qualities of discipline and self control. Chrysoberyl aligns the solar plexus and crown chakras. It also promotes tolerance and harmony. Chrysoberyl is excellent for creativity and associated with wealth.