Chrysoberyl
Precious Gemstone
What is Chrysoberyl?
Chrysoberyl is an aluminate of beryllium with the formula BeAl2O4. The name chrysoberyl is derived from the Greek words chrysos and beryllos, meaning 'a gold-white gem'. It is the third-hardest natural gemstone and is known for its excellent transparency and luster. Chrysoberyl can exhibit a variety of colors, most notably yellow to greenish-yellow, but also brown, and in the case of alexandrite, a color-changing phenomenon.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.746-1.756
- Birefringence
- 0.005 to 0.009
- Pleochroism
- Distinct to weak
- Optical Character
- Biaxial (+)
- Dispersion
- 0.015
Chrysoberyl Market Value Calculator
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Chrysoberyl Localities Map
See where Chrysoberyl is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Yellow, green, brown, and color-changing (alexandrite)
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 8.5
- Density
- 3.70 to 3.80 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- BeAl2O4
- Elements
- Beryllium, Aluminum, Oxygen
Also Known As
ChrysoberylCymophane (for chatoyant varieties)Alexandrite (for color-changing variety)
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