hexagonal Synthetic synthetic beryl
Hydrothermal Emerald (Crystal)
Be3Al2(SiO3)6:Cr,V
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Hydrothermal Emerald
#! System: Hexagonal (6/mmm)
#! Habit: Prismatic crystal from hydrothermal growth
hexagonal[6/mmm]:{10-10}@1.0 + {10-11}@0.6 + {0001}@0.3
hexagonal
6/mmm
{10-10} {10-11} {0001}
Quick Facts
Hardness
7.5
Specific Gravity
2.68
Refractive Index
1.568
Optical Character
Uniaxial -
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Open in PlaygroundPhysical Properties
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Hardness (Mohs)7.5
Specific Gravity2.68
CleavageImperfect basal
FractureConchoidal
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.568
Birefringence0.005
Optical CharacterUniaxial -
Dispersion0.014
Pleochroismstrong: bluish-green / yellowish-green
FluorescenceVariable, often red (LW UV)
Origin & Identification
OriginSynthetic
Growth MethodHydrothermal
ManufacturerBiron, Tairus, Regency
First Produced1960
Diagnostic FeaturesNail-head spicules, chevron growth zoning (seed plate visible), two-phase inclusions along seed plate, higher RI than flux emerald (1.568-1.573), breadcrumb-like inclusions, may show strong red fluorescence
Colours
GreenBluish-green
Common Inclusions
Nail-head spiculesChevron growth zoningSeed plateTwo-phase inclusions
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Open in PlaygroundNatural Counterpart
The natural gem this synthetic imitates
Related Minerals
Other minerals in the hexagonal system
