Chrsysoberyl

Introduction: Chrysoberyl is the combination of two Greek words; chrysos meaning 'gold' and beryllos 'beryl' or 'golden beryl'. As it is an extremely hard mineral, it is a much sought after gemstone. Star-shaped crystals, called sixlings, are usually formed with a natural colour ranging from yellow, grey, yellow-green, dark green or olive-green.

Distribution: New Schwaben pegmatites and on very rare occasions in Tantalite Valley in the south of Namibia.

Composition: Oxide

Crystal system: Orthorhombic

Lustre: Vitreous

Streak: White

Hardness: 8.5