Chrysoberyl – a gemstone of yellow-green hues

Chrysoberyl – aluminum oxide and beryllium
Chrysoberyl is a mineral with the chemical composition BeAl₂O₄. It typically occurs in yellow-green, green or golden shades and is famous for its high shine and hardness. In jewelry, it is one of the most valued cut stones, also thanks to its rare varieties, such as alexandrite (with a color change depending on the lighting) or “cat’s eye” (with a cat’s eye effect).

Origin and deposits of chrysoberyl
The most important deposits of chrysoberyl are found in Sri Lanka, Brazil, Russia, Tanzania and India. Sri Lankan stones are among the oldest and historically most valued. High-quality crystals are found in Brazil, which are used to produce luxury cut stones.

History and Uses
Chrysoberyl was known in ancient times and, due to its hardness (8.5 on the Mohs scale), became a valued stone for jewelry. The alexandrite variety was discovered in Russia in the 19th century and quickly became one of the rarest gemstones.

Chrysoberyl Identification

Chemical Formula: BeAl₂O₄

Color: yellow-green, green, golden, brown

Crystal Appearance: prismatic, tabular

Crystal System: rhombic (orthorhombic)

Hardness: 8.5 (Mohs scale)

Luster: vitreous

Cleavage: imperfect

Scratch: white

Density: 3.5 – 3.8 g/cm³