DESCRIPTION:
Heliodor, popularly known as a variety of Beryl and also referred to as yellow Beryl, is an important gemstone in the family of gems. A deeper study of this precious stone reveals that it is distinct from Beryl primarily by its color: Heliodor appears greenish-yellow, while Beryl appears golden. Compared to other Beryl members, Heliodor is less common than emerald and aquamarine.
Large deposits of Heliodor have been found in Germany, Brazil, and Madagascar. These stones exhibit exceptional clarity and are available in various shapes and sizes. Some vendors also call this gemstone "yellow emerald." Its rich yellow color makes it highly suitable for cutting into gemstones. However, it is less commonly used in jewelry making and is best suited for earrings, bracelets, etc. It is predominantly favored among gem collectors and mineral enthusiasts.
Heliodor is typically treated by heating, which enhances its color. The yellow hue in this gem is attributed to iron impurities naturally present in Beryl.
Like emerald and aquamarine, Heliodor is believed to possess metaphysical properties that protect the wearer from evil and impart wisdom, knowledge, energy, and financial stability. One myth associated with Heliodor suggests it helps identify and solve problems faced by loved ones.
The significance of Heliodor is elevated by its association with the goddess of spring and its connection with the Sun God. As a stone of the sun, Heliodor is believed to harness fire and fill the wearer's home with energy, happiness, and strength. This belief is widely accepted, considering Heliodor as a gift from the sun that boosts confidence and alleviates muscle-related issues.
This yellow-colored gem is considered one of the finest forms of Beryl. Initially, only golden Beryl was called Heliodor, but over time, the name has been associated with various yellow varieties of Beryl. Its uniqueness lies in its yellow color derived from iron impurities.
Although Heliodor was not widely used for a long time, it has gained significant popularity among gem collectors after being recognized as precious as aquamarine. Jewelry makers worldwide also value Heliodor for its brilliant color.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES:
Name |
Heliodor |
Variety |
Beryl |
Alternate Common Names |
Golden Beryl |
Crystallography |
Hexagonal |
Refractive Index |
1.566-1.579 |
Color |
Greenish yellow, yellow, yellowish-orange |
Luster |
Vitreous |
Hardness |
7.5-8 |
Wearability |
Good |
Fracture |
Conchoidal to uneven |
Specific Gravity |
2.68-2.72 |
Birefringence |
0.005-0.009 |
Cleavage |
Indistinct |
Dispersion |
0.014 |
Transparency |
Transparent to opaque. |
Formula |
Be3Al2Si6O18 + Fe3+ |
Pleochroism |
Less distinct than the other beryls. Brownish-yellow to lemon-yellow. |
Optics |
Uniaxial (-) |
Optic Sign |
Uniaxial - |
Etymology |
From the Greek helios and doron for "gift of the sun," in allusion to the yellow color. |
Occurrence |
Granitic rocks, especially granite pegmatites. |
Inclusions |
Long, hollow tubes; needles; fingerprints; negative crystals; chrysanthemums; pinpoints; two-phase inclusions. |
Typical Treatments |
Dyeing, Heat Treatment, Irradiation |
Enhancements |
Heating, radiation, dyeing |
Phenomena |
Chatoyancy |
NATURAL OCCURRENCE:
Germany, Brazil and Madagascar .
AVAILABLE COLORS:
Greenish - yellow