Cat's Eye

Physical Information

“Cat’s eye” is not one single stone. It is the name of an optical effect called chatoyancy: a narrow band of light that moves across a polished stone when you turn it, like the eye of a cat. This effect comes from many tiny parallel fibres or needles inside the stone.

The classic natural cat’s eye is a honey-yellow or green chrysoberyl, but quartz, tourmaline and other stones can show it too. Please note: most colourful, very bright “cat’s eye” beads in pink, blue or green are man-made fibre-optic glass, not a natural stone. Glass cat’s eye is still lovely and easy to care for.

Metaphysical Properties

Cat’s eye is known as a stone of protection and luck. Its watchful “eye” is believed to guard against negative energy. Many people use it as a good-luck charm or wear it when they want to feel more aware and alert.

It is often associated with the solar plexus chakra and with intuition. People like to wear it as a ring or pendant, or carry a small stone during busy days to stay calm, focused and confident.