mineral

Red Beryl

Bixbite (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Mn3+ ions)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs); Color: Strawberry red to gooseberry red; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (prismatic); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.70

Hardness: 7
Color: Strawberry red to gooseberry red
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs); Color: Strawberry red to gooseberry red; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (prismatic); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.70

Formation & geological history

Formed in topaqu-bearing rhyolites under high-temperature, low-pressure conditions where fluorine-rich vapors reacted with beryllium and groundwater. Most specimens are from the Wah Wah Mountains of Utah, dated to the Oligocene (~20-25 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a high-end gemstone for jewelry and as a rare mineral specimen for elite collectors due to its extreme scarcity.

Geological facts

Red Beryl is one of the rarest minerals on Earth; it is estimated that one red beryl crystal is found for every 150,000 gem-quality diamonds. It was originally named 'Bixbite' by Maynard Bixby in 1904, though the CIBJO now discourages this name to avoid confusion with Bixbyite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct hexagonal prismatic habit and intense red color (caused by manganese). Primarily found in the Wah Wah Mountains, Beaver County, Utah. For collectors, look for the 'stoplight red' saturation and characteristic inclusions known as 'growth tubes.'