Updated as of June 2026
Chrysoberyl
A very hard golden gem, with cat's eye varieties prized as protective talismans of foresight and good fortune.
Price range$50 to $1,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)8.5
ColorsYellow, Green, Brown, Golden
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
7.8/10
Chrysoberyl pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 8.5) for everyday wear
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Quality varies widely, so compare before buying
Chrysoberyl is durable enough for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry of every kind.
Explore Chrysoberyl
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestChrysoberyl jewelry
Chrysoberyl ringsChrysoberyl engagement ringsChrysoberyl necklacesChrysoberyl pendantsChrysoberyl earringsChrysoberyl bracelets
Chrysoberyl by cut
Round ChrysoberylOval ChrysoberylEmerald Cut ChrysoberylCushion ChrysoberylPrincess ChrysoberylPear ChrysoberylAll cuts
Chrysoberyl ring styles
Chrysoberyl solitaire ringChrysoberyl halo ringChrysoberyl three stone ringChrysoberyl hidden halo ringChrysoberyl vintage and antique ringChrysoberyl bezel ringAll styles
Chrysoberyl by metal
Chrysoberyl in yellow goldChrysoberyl in white goldChrysoberyl in rose goldChrysoberyl in platinumChrysoberyl in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Hard and durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe.
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Where to buy Chrysoberyl: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chrysoberyl?
A very hard golden gem, with cat's eye varieties prized as protective talismans of foresight and good fortune. It rates 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in yellow, green, brown, golden.
How much does Chrysoberyl cost?
Chrysoberyl typically runs about $50 to $1,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Chrysoberyl price guide for detail.
Is Chrysoberyl good for everyday jewelry?
Yes. At Mohs 8.5 it is durable enough for rings and daily wear with normal care.
What is the AltGems Score for Chrysoberyl?
Chrysoberyl earns an overall AltGems Score of 7.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Chrysoberyl?
Hard and durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe.