Heliodor
Mineral NameHeliodor
Chemical FormulaBe₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆
Mohs Hardness7.5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageimperfect basal {0001}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.69
Colorsyellow, yellowish-green, golden-yellow
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityBrazil, Namibia, Madagascar, Russia, Ukraine
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, muscovite, tourmaline
Rarityuncommon
Description
This image displays a polished, tumbled heliodor gemstone, exhibiting a yellowish-green to golden-yellow hue with internal clarity and a smooth, reflective surface.
Geological Context
Heliodor, a variety of beryl, typically forms in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, often associated with other pegmatitic minerals. Its color is due to trace amounts of iron.
