Goshenite (Beryl)

Gemstone: Goshenite (Beryl) Birthstone Month: Beryl is not associated with any particular birthstone month. Zodiac: Beryl is associated with the zodiac signs Scorpio and Sagittarius. Chemical Symbol: Be3Al2Si6O18 Chemical Make-up: Beryl is scientifically classified as a Beryllium Aluminum Silicate. There are no trace elements present in Goshenite's chemical make-up, hence the fact that this is a colorless gemstone. History & Lore: The origin of the name Beryl is thought to derive from the Sanskrit word 'veruliyam', an old term previously used for the gemstone Chrysoberyl. It is also believed to derive from the Greek Word 'beryllos' which means crystal, and was originally applied to all green gemstones but was later used exclusively for Beryl. The name Goshenite is derived from the location in which it was found, Goshen, Massachusetts. Though it has little significance as a gemstone, Goshenite does have some historical importance as it was the pioneer of today's spectacles. It is documented that Pliny, a Roman scholar, used powdered Beryl to cure injuries relating to the eye. Legend says that Beryl was once used to ward off demons and evil spirits and that it can protect the wearer from dangers whilst traveling. Other legends also state that Beryl can be used to bring about good luck, cheerfulness, energy, and eternal youthfulness. It is also said to be effective at treating disorders of the heart and spine.

Goshenite is believed to be a stone of truthfulness and it encourages truth to be used in all actions. Goshenite is a stone of creativity, originality, and self-control, and is believed to bring understanding and clarity to situations. Availability: Goshenite is somewhat rare and currently has little significance as a gemstone. Sources: Goshenite is named after the location in which it was found; Goshen, Massachusetts. Goshenite deposits occur worldwide, but the most significant deposits are found in Brazil, Canada, Columbia, East Africa, the Himalayan Mountains of Asia, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and the United States. Evaluation: Beryl is rated at 7.5 to 8 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and is a durable stone that is ideal for all jewelry purposes. Beryl is colorless in pure form, but different elemental impurities give it a wide variety of available colors. Goshenite contains no trace elements in its chemical make-up, hence the transparent, colorless appearance of this Beryl variety. Despite Goshenite's excellent hardness, durability, and resistance to corrosive substances, it is rarely used for jewelry applications and currently holds little significance as a gemstone. Common Cuts: Beryl has the ability to be cut into a wide spectrum of many-faceted shapes. Beryls are particularly well suited to rectangular or square cuts, as these bring out the stone's transparency and color definition. Routine Enhancements: Goshenite is generally not enhanced, but it is occasionally coated in green or silver foil to create imitations of Diamonds and Emeralds. Care & Cleaning: Beryls can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Enzyme cleaners and cleaning agents containing chlorine should be avoided because they can cause dermatitis and allergic reactions. To reduce the dangers of thermal shock, Beryls should be kept away from prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Goshenite jewelry should be stored in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.