Heliodor is the yellow or golden-yellow variety of the beryl family. It has always been linked with the sun. Gem-quality specimens are occasionally found, but more usually inclusions of fine and slender tubes are present. These are visible to the naked eye.
Occurrence
Heliodor occurs associated with aquamarine in granitic pegmatites. The best-quality gemstones are found in the Urals, Russia. Brazilian heliodor is often a pale yellow and is step-cut to give depth of color. Heliodor from Madagascar is a finer color. Other localities include Ukraine, the USA, and Namibia.
Heliodor Properties
- Specific Gravity: 2.80
- Refractive Index: 1.57-1.58
- Birefringence (DR): 0.005
- Luster: Vitreous
- Crystal Structure: Hexagonal
- Composition: Beryllium aluminum silicate
- Hardness: 7½
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