How do I identify Beryllonite?

Beryllonite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color, Greasy, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Beryllonite?

Beryllonite typically appears in Colourless, white, rarely pale light yellow, colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Beryllonite?

Beryllonite has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Beryllonite

A variety of Minerals

Rare

Beryllonite specimen - rock identification

What is Beryllonite?

Beryllonite is a highly valuable collector's gem. It is extremely difficult to cut and rarely used with jewelry. Any faceted material is highly prized. Mined only in Maine (USA) for decades, the material is now also mined in Afghanistan — the specimens from this locality often showing a striking cat's eye effect.

Uses & Applications

Beryllonite is a very rare mineral that is occasionally used in the gem industry. Good examples have excellent clarity and can be cut into nearly clear faceted stones, some of which refract with a striking cat's eye effect. However, the stone is neither hard nor brilliant enough for use in everyday jewelry.

Healing Properties

The expectation is that beryllonite's vibrational energy brings emotional healing through its connection with the heart and crown chakras. It's said to minimize negative thoughts and feelings (including stress, fear, and anger) and combat depressive tendencies. Beryllonite may benefit you if you're suffering from general fatigue or low mood.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.552-1.562
Birefringence: 0.009-0.010
Pleochroism: None
Optical Character: Biaxial negative
Dispersion: 0.01

Beryllonite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Beryllonite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Beryllonite Localities Map

See where Beryllonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

Beryllonite is a secondary birthstone for the zodiac sign of Aries.

Associated Chakras

Heart

Crown

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Colourless, white, rarely pale light yellow, colourless in transmitted light
Hardness (Mohs): 5.5 - 6
Density: 2.805 g/cm³
Streak: White
Luster: Greasy, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous
Crystal System: Monoclinic