Beryl - What is beryl

Beryl: An Exquisite Gemstone

Overview of Beryl is a captivating gemstone renowned for its vibrant colours and impressive durability. Belonging to the beryl mineral family, it has a chemical composition primarily composed of beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate. Beryl's distinctiveness lies in its various colour varieties, with each hue receiving its unique name. The most well-known beryl varieties include emerald (green), aquamarine (blue-green), morganite (pink to peach), heliodor (yellow to yellow-green), and the rare red beryl, known as bixbite or red emerald.

Physical Properties and Durability

Beryl is admired not only for its diverse colours but also for its exceptional hardness, scoring 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This level of hardness ensures that beryl gemstones are resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear in jewellery. Beryl's transparency and clarity contribute to its desirability, especially in gem-quality specimens. However, it may contain inclusions and fractures, which, when skillfully handled by lapidaries, can enhance the stone's allure through treatments like oiling or heating.

Significance in Jewellery

Beryl gemstones have a rich history in the world of jewellery, cherished for their mesmerising colours and versatility. Emeralds, the green variety of beryl, have long been associated with royalty and are often featured in engagement rings and high-end jewellery pieces. Aquamarines, on the other hand, with their soothing blue hues, evoke images of the sea and are a popular choice for elegant jewellery designs. Whether as centre-pieces in rings, pendants, or earrings, beryl gemstones bring a touch of timeless beauty and sophistication to any jewellery collection.