Natural Cat’s Eye

Astrologically, the Lehsunia Ratna or Cat’s Eye stone represents the shadow planet Ketu, one of the nine celestial bodies in Vedic astrology (Navagrahas). Ketu governs spirituality, liberation, karma, intuition, and mysticism. When positively placed in one’s horoscope, it brings enlightenment, success, and protection from unseen dangers. However, when afflicted or positioned unfavorably, it can create confusion, obstacles, and sudden setbacks.

The Cat’s Eye gemstone helps balance Ketu’s energies, shielding the wearer from its negative effects and unlocking its spiritual and transformative powers. It is also regarded as the birthstone for June, making it especially significant for those born in this month.

Astrological Significance

• Planet: Ketu
• Vedic Rashi (Zodiac Signs): Kumbha (Aquarius) and Vrishchika (Scorpio)
• Western Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
• Friendly Planets: Venus, Mercury, Saturn, and Rahu
• Enemy Planets: Sun, Moon, and Mars
  

Individuals experiencing the Ketu Mahadasha or Antardasha (major or sub-periods of Ketu) or those dealing with sudden misfortunes, loss, or spiritual confusion are advised to wear a natural Cat’s Eye gemstone after proper astrological consultation.

To gain the maximum astrological benefits, Cat’s Eye should be worn following the correct Vedic procedure:

• Carat Weight: The stone should ideally weigh 1/10th of the wearer’s body weight. For example, a person weighing 70 kg should wear a 7-carat Cat’s Eye.
• Colour: Recommended shades include grey, green, orange, or smoky brown — with a clear and distinct chatoyant band (eye-like effect)
• Metal: Iron is considered most suitable, but it can also be set in silver, gold, or Panchdhatu (a five-metal alloy).
• Finger: Worn on the middle finger of the dominant hand.
• Day & Time: The ideal time is Saturday, during the first hour after sunrise, preferably in the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon).
• Vedic Mantra & Chanting: Chant the powerful mantra —
  “Om Kem Ketave Namah” (ॐ कें केतवे नमः) — 108 times before wearing the stone to invoke Ketu’s blessings.

Use lukewarm water and a mild soap solution along with a soft cloth to gently clean your Cat’s Eye stone. Avoid using hard brushes or abrasive scrubbers, as they may damage the stone’s delicate “eye” effect or cause scratches on its surface.

Keep your gemstone away from harsh chemicals, detergents, perfumes, and cleaning agents, as these can dull its natural shine. Also, avoid exposing the stone to excessive heat or sunlight, which may reduce its luster and weaken the setting.

Inspect your Cat’s Eye jewellery regularly to check for any loose settings or visible damage. Having it professionally cleaned and examined by a trusted jeweller ensures your stone remains secure and retains its original brilliance.

Store your Cat’s Eye gemstone in a soft-lined jewellery box or cloth pouch, away from other gemstones that might cause scratches. Proper storage not only preserves the smooth surface of the stone but also keeps its distinctive shimmer intact over time.

The origin of a Cat’s Eye gemstone plays a major role in determining its overall quality and price. The finest Lehsunia stones are sourced from Sri Lanka, India, and Brazil. Among these, Sri Lankan Cat’s Eye gemstones are highly prized for their superior transparency and distinct silky sheen, making them the most sought-after variety in the global gemstone market.

Colour is one of the most important factors that influence the Cat’s Eye stone price. Premium-quality stones display bright golden, honey, or greenish hues with a sharp and well-defined chatoyancy (eye effect). Stones with consistent colour and strong visual contrast between the eye line and the background tone command significantly higher value.

High-quality Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eye stones should be free from visible inclusions and internal flaws, except for their signature “eye” band. Stones with a clear body tone, minimal inclusions, and a crisp, centered eye are considered most valuable. In contrast, heavily included or hazy stones appear dull and are less desirable.

A well-executed cabochon cut is essential for showcasing the Cat’s Eye gemstone’s unique optical phenomenon. Expertly cut stones display a sharply defined, centered eye that glides smoothly across the surface when moved under light. A high-quality cut not only enhances visual appeal but also significantly boosts the stone’s astrological effectiveness and overall value.

As the carat weight of a Cat’s Eye increases, its value also rises—especially if the gemstone maintains vivid colour, strong chatoyancy, and clean clarity. Larger stones that meet all premium standards are extremely rare and fetch higher market prices.