Beryl: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'beryl' comes from the Greek word 'berullos', which means 'precious stone'.
• Different forms of beryl have unique names, like 'emerald' for green beryl and 'aquamarine' for blue beryl.

Science

• Beryl is a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum silicate and can form large crystals, making it useful in jewelry.
• Some varieties of beryl can be transparent, leading to their use in optical components like lenses.

Historical Significance

• Beryl has been valued since ancient times, often used in talismans and jewelry by Egyptians and Greeks.
• During the Renaissance, beryl was believed to enhance intuition and clarity of thought.

Pop Culture

• In modern fantasy literature, beryl often represents nature and magic, symbolizing purity and strength.
• Beryl is featured in various video games and movies as a gemstone of power and greatness.

Geology

• Beryl can be found in granitic pegmatites, where large crystal formations often occur.
• Some of the largest beryl crystals ever found were located in the sands of Brazil and were over 18 feet long!