Natural Bixbite

Bixbite is the variety name for the red variety of beyl. It was named after the mineral collector Maynard Bixby. Gem quality material is very rare and the largest faceted gemstones are less than three carats in size.

Bixbite Profile

Color information:	Pink, Red.
Refractive Index:	1.577(+-.016), 1.583 (+-.017)
Chemical Composition:	Be3Al2(SiO3)6
Hardness:	7.5
Density:	2.67-2.745
Crystal Group:	Hexagonal
Ocurrence:	Utah, U.S.A.
Sign of the Zodiac:	N/A
Month of the year:	N/A

This very rare gemstone was mined only, at the Wah Wah Mountains deposit in Utah and this deposit is finished for now. The last operators had to totally restore the site when they passed on their option. Anyone wishing to go back and re-open the mine will spend millions just removing overburden. There may still be lots of red beryl in the ground but it hasn't proved economical to pull it out. Most recently there has been a great deal of confusion regarding bixbite and pezzottaite. Pezzottaite is from Madagascar. Chemically, the two varieties are similar but the crystallography is different and pezzottaite is not beryl. Pezzottaite crystallizes in the trigonal system and beryl crystallizes hexagonally. Bixbite is said to enhance one's physical energy and creativity, to help strengthen and heal the heart and lungs, and to help remedy various disorders of the digestive system. and to stimulate awareness. It is also said to give harmony and compatibility in relationships, and to help one overcome grief and depression. The astrological signs of bixbite are Taurus and Aries.

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