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You are here: PIRSA Home / Minerals / Geology & Resources / Mineral Commodities / Beryl
Beryl
Beryl (Be3Al2(Si6O18)), a silicate mineral containing 12-13.5% beryllium oxide (BeO), is one of the main sources of the lightweight metal beryllium. World consumption of beryllium is ~600 t/year, the main use being beryllium–copper alloys in electronics. Due to its extreme lightness it is used in space vehicle structures, and its neutron reflecting properties are used in nuclear reactor control rods. Aquamarine (blue), emerald (deep green), morganite (pink) and heliodor (golden yellow) are gem varieties of beryl.
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South Australia's total recorded production of 136 t was mined between 1941 and 1963 from 34 pegmatite bodies in Willyama Supergroup rocks in the Olary district, mainly as a hand-picked by-product of feldspar mining.
Additional Reading
Crooks, A. F. & Abbot, P.J., 2004. Beryl in South Australia. South Australia Department of Primary Industries and Resources Report Book 2004/25. (.pdf file ~ 1.2Mb)
Olliver, J.G. and Steveson, B.G., 1982. Pegmatites in the Olary Province. A review of feldspar and beryl mining north of Olary and the results of reconnaissance sampling of feldspar. South Australia. Department of Mines and Energy. Report Book, 81/74.
- Page URL: http://outernode.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals/geology/commodities/beryl
- Page Last Modified: October 31, 2007