Definition

The quality of a gemstone that shows a narrow band of light, resembling a cat's eye, when viewed from certain angles.

Example

The chatoyancy of the stone made it look like it had a glowing line running through it.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the chatoyancy in that gemstone?

Yeah, it really makes it look unique and fascinating.

I love how it reflects light; it gives off such a cool effect.

Totally! That chatoyancy makes it stand out among other stones.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chatoyancy is derived from the French word 'chatoyer' (meaning to shimmer or to shine), which itself comes from 'chat' (meaning cat). The term refers to the optical phenomenon seen in certain gemstones, where a band of light appears to move across the surface, resembling the slit pupil of a cat's eye.

Memory Tip

Imagine a cat's eye shimmering in the light — that's what chatoyancy describes, the way light moves across certain gemstones.

Visually Confused Words