Queen Beryl/Esmeraude (Emerald)

Be₃Al₂(Si₆0₁₈)

The name beryl is derived form the Greek beryllos meaning "a blue-green gem".

Beryl resides in the hexagonal crystal system, forming 6 sided prisms with flat pinacoid bases at either end. It generally forms single crystals rather than aggregate forms. Crystal size varies, and larger crystals usually have a mottled appearance do to alternating transparent and translucent spots. It is typically found in granites and pegmatites, but it can also be found in schists and some rare ore deposits.

Properties:
Imperfect cleavage
Even fracture
Vitreous luster
Transparent to translucent
Commonly bluish green or light yellow coloration
Hardness--7.5 to 8

Color and Gem Variations:
Light bluish green--Aquamarine
Deep green--Emerald
Golden yellow--Heliodor
Pink--Morganite
White
Colorless

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