Beryl

Béryl

Beryl Crystal Structure

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Beryl-209736

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Aquamarin cut

Béryl var. émeraude sur gangue (Muzo Mine Boyaca - Colombie) 15

Beryl is a mineral composed of beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate with the chemical formula Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆. Renowned for its transparency and high hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, beryl forms hexagonal crystals that can range in size from very small to several meters in length. The presence of other elements within the crystal structure gives rise to various colored gemstones, notably emerald (green) and aquamarine (blue to blue-green).

Properties and Varieties

Beryl is distinguished by its high hardness, which makes it resistant to scratching and abrasion, and its hexagonal crystal system. The pure form of beryl is colorless, but the presence of impurities can give it a range of colors. The most well-known varieties include:

• Emerald: This green variety of beryl is colored by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emeralds are highly prized gemstones and are characterized by their vibrant green color.
• Aquamarine: Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of beryl, colored by trace amounts of iron. It is admired for its clarity and is often used in jewelry.
• Morganite: Pink to orange-pink variety, colored by traces of manganese.
• Heliodor: Yellow to greenish-yellow variety, colored by traces of iron.
• Goshenite: The colorless variety of beryl, named after Goshen, Massachusetts.

Formation and Locations

Beryl forms in pegmatites and certain metamorphic rocks. It is often associated with minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. Beryl can be found in many locations around the world, with major deposits in Colombia (emeralds), Brazil (aquamarine and emerald), and Africa (emeralds and aquamarine).

Uses

Beyond its use as a gemstone, beryl is also an important source of beryllium, a metal used in various applications including aerospace components due to its light weight and high stiffness. However, the extraction of beryllium from beryl is a complex process and is not the primary use of the mineral.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Beryl has been known and valued for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations prized beryl gemstones for their beauty and perceived mystical properties. Emeralds, in particular, were highly valued in ancient Egypt, where they were believed to symbolize rebirth and fertility. Throughout history, beryl gemstones have been used in royal and ceremonial jewelry, signifying wealth and status.

See Also

• Mineralogy
• Gemstone
• Beryllium