Heliodor

Consumer Information

What color is it?: This gemstone is the yellow variety of beryl sometimes called “yellow beryl” and sometimes by the name above: heliodor

What is the story behind this gemstone?: It is a sister stone to the emerald, aquamarine, morganite, and red beryl. It is fairly rare in large sizes, but makes beautiful jewelry items if you can find it in a retail jewelry store.

Can I wear it everyday?: Yes, very long wearing.

Is it expensive?: Generally no. Heliodor is about the same price as a nice amethyst in the smaller sizes. Larger stones, however, will get to be rather expensive due to rarity.

Is it a birthstone?: No.

What do I need to know before going shopping?: Once again, call ahead. Few retail jewelers will carry heliodor as a regular inventory gemstone. So make sure you are shopping with a well experienced independent retail jeweler when looking for heliodor.

General Information

Classic hexagonal yellow beryl crystal showing perfect termination

Source: Brazil, Madagascar, Namibia

Chemical: Al2Be3(Si6O16) Aluminum beryllium silicate

Formation: Pegmatite dikes and granite formations

Crystal System: Hexagonal

Unusual Properties: Can be radioactive due to coloring element of uranium