Rich bluish-green to pure vivid green; trace chromium and vanadium impart the signature emerald hue.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Cr³⁺/V³⁺ (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate with Chromium and/or Vanadium)
Beryl • Beryl
Heliodor
Lemon yellow, golden honey, to greenish-yellow, colored by ferric iron (Fe3+) substituting for aluminum.
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe³⁺Mohs 7.5 – 8.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Beryl |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Beryl |
| Gemological Variety | Heliodor (Golden Beryl) |
| Chemical Composition | Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe³⁺ |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 7.5 – 8.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 2.68 – 2.74 |
| Refractive Index | 1.570 – 1.580 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Lemon yellow, golden honey, to greenish-yellow, colored by ferric iron (Fe3+) substituting for aluminum.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Crystallizes in granitic pegmatites alongside aquamarine and smoky quartz across Pakistan, Tajikistan, Ukraine, and Brazil.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Collectors value naturally etched prism crystals and high-clarity golden faceted stones.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Excellent durability and high transparency make heliodor suitable for all jewelry forms.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Many golden beryls are completely natural in color, though irradiation can induce yellow hues in colorless beryl.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid prolonged high-heat exposure.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
From the Greek 'gift of the sun' (helios + doron), traditionally symbolizing optimism, warmth, and mental clarity.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Beryl
Related Entries
Pastel sky blue to deep sea-blue and greenish-blue, colored by trace iron within the hexagonal channel structure.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe²⁺/Fe³⁺
Soft rose pink, peach, and salmon-pink hues caused by trace manganese; often forms flat tabular hexagonal crystals.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Mn²⁺/Mn³⁺