Beryl comprise a whole range of attractive varieties, two of which are more familiar under their specific names. These are the rich greenemerald and the paler green or blueaquamarine. There are in addition golden heliodor, pink morganite and colorless goshenite.
Beryl is allochromatic and may therefore be found in almost any color. It is one of the lighter gemstones, usually with good transparency, fairly widely distributed but by no means common since beryllium is a rare element. Its lustre is vitreous and it takes an excellent polish. A considerable hardness helps it to withstand wear.
The name comes from the Greek beryllos, applied apparently to aquamarine, though even as early as first century.
Beryl is found in Middle and Western Africa, there are occurrences in Russia, Ukraine and in the USA. The magnificent stones now available in South America.
