hexagonal Synthetic synthetic beryl
Flux-Grown Emerald (Crystal)
Be3Al2(SiO3)6:Cr
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Flux-Grown Emerald
#! System: Hexagonal (6/mmm)
#! Habit: Prismatic crystal from flux growth
hexagonal[6/mmm]:{10-10}@1.0 + {0001}@0.3
hexagonal
6/mmm
{10-10} {0001}
Quick Facts
Hardness
7.5
Specific Gravity
2.65
Refractive Index
1.56
Optical Character
Uniaxial -
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Open in PlaygroundPhysical Properties
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Hardness (Mohs)7.5
Specific Gravity2.65
CleavageImperfect basal
FractureConchoidal
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.56
Birefringence0.003
Optical CharacterUniaxial -
Dispersion0.014
Pleochroismstrong: bluish-green / yellowish-green
FluorescenceUsually strong red (LW UV), weak to inert (SW UV)
Origin & Identification
OriginSynthetic
Growth MethodFlux
ManufacturerChatham, Gilson, Lennix
First Produced1935
Diagnostic FeaturesFlux inclusions (wispy veils, fingerprints), phenakite crystals, platinum platelets, lower SG than natural (2.65-2.66 vs 2.67-2.78), lower RI than natural (1.560-1.563 vs 1.565-1.602), strong red fluorescence under Chelsea filter
Colours
GreenBluish-green
Common Inclusions
Flux veilsPhenakite crystalsPlatinum plateletsWispy flux remnants
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Open in PlaygroundNatural Counterpart
The natural gem this synthetic imitates
Related Minerals
Other minerals in the hexagonal system
