girasole etymology

Etymology:

The word "girasole" is derived from the Italian phrase "girare il sole," which means "turning with the sun."

Meaning:

A girasol is a type of gemstone that exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called chatoyancy, or the "cat's eye" effect. When light strikes the stone at a certain angle, a narrow, shimmering band of light appears on its surface, resembling the eye of a cat.

Origin:

Girasoles are typically found in the chrysoberyl mineral family, which is composed of beryllium, aluminum, and oxygen. They are formed when tiny, elongated inclusions of rutile (titanium dioxide) or goethite (iron oxide) align themselves parallel to the crystal faces.

The first known use of the term "girasole" to describe this gemstone dates back to the 15th century in Italy. However, similar stones with chatoyancy have been valued for centuries in various cultures around the world.

Other Names:

Girasoles are also known by the following names:

  • Cat's eye
  • Cymophane
  • Opalized chrysoberyl

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