ORIGIN
The name "Cat's Eye" is derived from its distinct optical effect known as chatoyancy, which resembles the slit-eye of a cat in certain lighting conditions
In Sanskrit, Cat's Eye is known as "Vaidurya," signifying its enigmatic and alluring appearance
The Mystical Light of Ketu
"वैदूर्यं तमरुचिमेघविमलं श्यामं कण्टकोत्तंसितप्रभावम्।"
"Cat's Eye, dark as the rainy cloud, with a radiant streak like a spark"
This verse, found in ancient Indian texts, captures the unique beauty and mystique of Cat's Eye
DESCRIPTION
Cat's Eye, the gem of protection and intuition, is associated with the shadow planet Ketu (the South Node of the Moon). It symbolizes spiritual awakening, guidance, and mystical insights
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Color: Typically yellow-green to brownish-green.
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Optical Effect: Chatoyancy - a shimmering, slit-eye effect.
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Hardness: 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
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Lustre: Vitreous to silky.
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Transparency: Translucent to opaque
SPECIES
Cat's Eye is primarily a variety of Chrysoberyl, with its optical effect caused by needle-like inclusions of rutile or hematite
TREATMENTS
Cat's Eye is typically not treated because its natural chatoyancy is highly valued. It may be shaped and polished for jewelry
FORMATION
The finest Cat's Eyes come from Sri Lanka, Brazil, India, and Madagascar, with Sri Lankan Cat's Eyes being renowned for their exceptional quality and strong chatoyancy
Cat's Eye, the mystical gem of Ketu, is believed to bring protection, intuition, and spiritual growth to its wearer. When worn with reverence and belief, it can guide you on a path of enlightenment and inner wisdom, making it a gemstone of profound significance
Cat's Eye
Cat’s Eye appeases Lord Surya. Those who have a weak Kethu in their horoscopes and those suffering from the evil effects of Kethu due to unfavourable Kethu dasa and bhukthi will benefit greatly. Cat’s Eye protects the wearer from enemies, mysterious dangers, and diseases
"विद्युत्प्रभाव: केतोस्य, आत्मा-ज्ञानं सुसंवृतम्। मर्त्यलोके समायान्ति, प्रज्ञानं दर्शयन्निति।"
Cat's Eye: The Gem of Ketu and Spiritual Awareness
Ketu is an impartial, hybrid celestial influence known for its inactivity, disfigurement, and disruptive nature. It instigates disturbances in the physical bodies of individuals, often leading them to lose interest in life. Depicted as a headless torso with a fish body, referred to as the dragon's tail, Ketu holds a flag of self-glory in its hand. While less destructive than Rahu, Ketu guides its natives towards salvation from the cycles of life and death, imparting a sense of passivity.
Functioning as a headless half-planet, akin to the shadowy nature of Rahu, Ketu is considered malefic, though not as malefic as its counterpart. Hence, it is known as the redeemer of souls, serving as a moksha-karaka. Ketu bestows spirituality, solemnity, and detachment from worldly desires and ambitions. Additionally, it imparts wisdom, powers of discrimination, and gyana, which encompasses spiritual knowledge and self-awareness. Ketu grants psychic abilities to its natives, making them adept in the healing arts, including natural healing, knowledge of healing herbs and spices, tantric healing, and the healing of individuals afflicted by evil spirits, ghosts, and astral forces. Ketu's influence also grants its natives the unique ability to seamlessly merge among commoners
Conclusion
Cat's Eye is often associated with Ketu's influence, symbolizing spiritual awakening, intuition, and protection
Origin Stories in Indian Sanskrit Texts
Cat's Eye, known as "Lehsunia" or "Vaidurya" in Sanskrit, has its origins deeply rooted in Vedic astrology and mythology. In Vedic astrology, Cat's Eye is associated with the shadow planet Ketu. According to ancient Sanskrit texts, Ketu is considered a mystical and spiritual planet, and Cat's Eye is believed to harness its positive energies. The "Garuda Purana" mentions the significance of Cat's Eye in protecting against negative forces and promoting spiritual awareness
Meaning of the Name
The name "Cat's Eye" is derived from the gemstone's distinct chatoyancy, which resembles the eye of a cat. In Sanskrit, Cat's Eye is known as "Lehsunia" or "Vaidurya," terms that refer to its unique appearance and perceived medicinal properties
Why Wear a Cat's Eye
Cat's Eye is worn for its association with Ketu, and it is believed to bring spiritual awareness, intuition, and protection to the wearer. It is thought to counter the malefic effects of Ketu and enhance one's insight, wisdom, and psychic abilities. The gem is often recommended for individuals seeking to develop their spiritual path and navigate challenges with clarity
How to Wear a Cat's Eye
Cat's Eye is typically set in silver or gold and worn as a ring or pendant. To maximize its positive effects, the gemstone should make direct contact with the skin. Astrologers often recommend wearing Cat's Eye on the middle or little finger of the right hand. It is advisable to wear Cat's Eye on a Wednesday or Thursday during the waxing moon cycle (Shukla Paksha)
How to Buy a Cat's Eye
When purchasing Cat's Eye, factors such as colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight should be considered. The most desirable Cat's Eye exhibits a sharp and centered line of light, known as the "eye," against a translucent or transparent background. Inclusions are acceptable and may enhance the gem's chatoyant effect. It is crucial to buy Cat's Eye from reputable sources and request certification from recognized gemmological laboratories
When to Wear a Cat's Eye
Cat's Eye is often recommended for individuals undergoing the period of Ketu (Ketu Mahadasha) in their birth chart or facing challenges associated with Ketu's influence. It is also suitable for those seeking spiritual growth, protection from negative energies, and heightened intuition. Astrological consultation is recommended to determine the auspicious timing for wearing Cat's Eye
Different Names of Cat's Eye Gemstone
Cat's Eye is referred to as Lahsuniya or Lehsuniya in Hindi. In Sanskrit, it goes by various names, including Vaidurya Mani, Hemvaiduriya, Keturatna, Vidooraja, and Vidalaksha. In Arabic, it is known as Enulahara, while in Bangla, it is called Sootramani. In Marwari, the gemstone is referred to as Billour
Mantra - Sacred Chants for Energizing Cat's Eye
There are two main mantras to energize Cat's Eye:
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VEDIC MANTRA FOR KETU
“ऊँ केतुं कृवन्नकेतवे पेशो मर्या अपेशसे समुषद्भिरजायथाः“
“Om ketuṁ kṛvannaketave peśo maryā apeśase samuṣadbhirajāyathāḥ”
2. TANTRIK BEEJ MANTRA
“ॐ स्रां स्रीं स्रौं सः केतवे नमः॥“
“Om Sraam Sreem Sraum Sah: Ketave Namah”