hexagonal Cyclosilicates
Red Beryl
Be3Al2(SiO3)6:Mn3+
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Red Beryl (Bixbite)
#! System: Hexagonal (6/mmm)
#! Habit: Short prismatic to tabular, red
hexagonal[6/mmm]:{10-10}@1.0 + {0001}@0.5 + {11-20}@0.2 | elongate(c:0.6)
hexagonal
6/mmm
{10-10} {0001} {11-20}
Quick Facts
Hardness
7.5
Specific Gravity
2.66
Refractive Index
1.564
Optical Character
Uniaxial -
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Open in PlaygroundPhysical Properties
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Hardness (Mohs)7.5
Specific Gravity2.66
CleavageImperfect basal
FractureConchoidal to uneven
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.564
Birefringence0.005-0.009
Optical CharacterUniaxial -
Dispersion0.014
Pleochroismstrong: Purplish-red / Orange-red (Dichroic; similar to ruby but with different hue range)
Colours
RedRaspberry redPurplish-redDeep red
Localities
Wah Wah Mountains, Utah (USA)Thomas Range, Utah (USA)New Mexico (USA)
Common Inclusions
Two-phase inclusionsBixbyite crystite crystalsGrowth tubesLiquid feathers
Known Treatments
Generally not treated (rarity)
Crystal Forms
hexagonal_prismpinacoiddihexagonal_prism
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Open in PlaygroundRelated Minerals
Other minerals in the hexagonal system
