STORIES - The Beryl Group

The Beryl Group

Gemstones are often categorised into families. One of the most fascinating is the beryl group, a collection of minerals that share the same structure, yet display a stunning diversity of colours and characteristics. Beryl is primarily mined in South America, Africa, and Pakistan. In its purest form, it is colourless, but natural “impurities” give each variety its signature hue and personality.

What is beryl?

Beryl is a mineral with a crystal structure that often forms into hexagonal shapes in nature, the result of millions of years of geological patience. While all types of beryl share a basic formula, it is the trace elements that create each variety’s unique colour and brilliance.

The name beryl originates from the ancient Greek word ‘beryllos’, meaning ‘blue-green stone.’ Interestingly, in the Middle Ages, beryl was used to create the first lenses and eyeglasses. When polished, it could be shaped to improve visual sharpness, making it as functional as it was beautiful.

One family, many expressions

What makes this gemstone group so fascinating is that a single mineral formula can take on so many different expressions. For example, emerald owes its deep green colour to traces of chromium, while aquamarine gains its beautiful blue hue from the presence of iron.

Colours

There are six different varieties of beryl: green emerald, blue aquamarine, soft pink morganite, yellow-green heliodor, the purest form of beryl, goshenite, and finally, one of the rarest, red beryl.

Red beryl, also referred to as red emerald, is mined in only two locations in the world, in the US states of Utah and New Mexico. With a value of around €8,500 per carat, it is considered a true collector’s gem.

The different cuts

Today, beryl can be cut in a variety of ways to enhance its beauty. The emerald cut was originally developed specifically for green beryl. Across its six colour types, beryl is widely used in fine jewellery, a favourite among designers for its versatility and radiance.

Possibilities

Combining different beryl colours allows their full beauty to shine. Stones in hues of pink, blue, and light green come together to create a truly exquisite necklace.
Have something else in mind? You decide and at byJacky, we’ll create your custom made jewel, just for you.