By Chisom Ibemere
Red beryl, also known as bixbite, is an extremely rare variety of beryl as well as one of the rarest minerals on Earth. It was first discovered in the late 19th century by Maynard Bixby in the Thomas Range and Wah Mountains of Utah.
Its name was given after its discoverer, and its striking dark red color quickly garnered interest from gem collectors and enthusiasts. Its colour was as a result of the presence of Mn3+ ions.
Red beryl rough crystals can be differentiated by their hexagonal crystal systems.
It is found in limited locations globally; its main source is in Utah. Other minor sources include New Mexico, Mexico, and sporadic occurrences in other regions. The gemstone is typically found in rhyolite and topaz-bearing rhyolites, formed under specific geological conditions.
Red beryl is a highly sought-after gemstone due to its rarity and vibrant red color. It is primarily used in making jewelry, particularly in high-end designs and collector pieces. Due to its scarcity, red beryl is often considered a collector’s gemstone and is highly valued by gem enthusiasts.
Red beryl is characterized by vivid red to pinkish red colour with a hexagonal crystal system. It has a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale and a vitreous Luster. It is transparent to translucent and density of
2.66-2.70 g/cm3.
Red beryl is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, and its value is determined by various factors, including its color, clarity, size, and origin. Fine-quality red beryl with a vivid red hue and high clarity are highly prized. Red beryl can be more valuable than diamonds of similar carat weight. The gem’s rarity and limited supply contribute to its high global value in the gemstone market.