Sunday’s Gem — Heliodor

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. ~Albert Einstein, German-born theoretical physicist

Named from two Greek words meaning “gift from the sun,” Heliodor is a type of the mineral beryl with a yellow, greenish-yellow, or golden-yellow color.

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This 1.96 carat pear-shaped Heliodor gemstone mined in Brazil sells for less than $150. Image courtesy of www.mineralminers.com

Sometimes you’ll hear Heliodor referred to as “yellow emerald,” but that’s a misnomer. While pure beryl is colorless, true Emerald is a beryl of green color caused by chromium or vanadium and typically costs way more than Heliodor, which gets its yellow hue from trace amounts of iron.

At 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness (ranging from soft 1 to hard 10), Heliodor is ideal for jewelry, whether set in rings, earrings, pendants, or bracelets. Current demand is small because the buying public isn’t familiar with the stone, and it’s not usually carried in mall jewelry stores. However, it’s quite popular with gem and mineral collectors.

Rare specimens of Heliodor contain a straight, silk inclusion which, when cut by a skilled person into a cabochon, exhibits what’s commonly referred to as cat’s eye.

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This rare Heliodor cabochon is cut to show a cat’s eye phenomenon. Image thanks to www.geology.com

Some of the producers of Heliodor are Madagascar, Brazil, Russia, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.

Ancient Greeks believed it was Heliodor that caused days and nights to alternate.

On the physical plane, Heliodor is said to strengthen the immune system, as well help with disorders of the liver, spleen, digestive system, eyes, and heart. It’s especially beneficial during cold and flu season. Wonder if it works on Coronavirus??

Emotionally, Heliodor is touted as the stone of hope and optimism, boosting confidence, helping you accomplish your dreams, and supporting survivors of all kinds of abuse.

Meditate with Heliodor so you can make decisions based on wisdom rather than emotion.

While not a traditional birthstone, yellow Heliodor is the natural birthstone for those born June 2-July 21; golden Heliodor is the natural birthstone for those born July 2-Aug. 21.

Heliodor is said to be yang in nature, helping both males and females develop characteristics of assertiveness, self-confidence, physical and mental strength, and benevolence.

Feng Shui practitioners see Heliodor as having fire energy and recommend it be placed in the middle of a space to bring cheerfulness and energy.

Healers believe Heliodor assists the Solar Plexus Chakra (located between the rib cage and naval and controlling the immune and digestive systems). When in balance, this chakra gives you strength to fight infections, as well as not live in fear of disappointing others.

While a fairly strong gemstone, Heliodor shouldn’t be worn while exercising, playing sports, or cleaning house. Store it separately from other gemstones to prevent them being scratched. Clean it in warm, soapy water and dry with a soft cloth.

Note: The claims here aren’t meant to take the place of medical advice. They’re based on folklore and other sources, and likely “work” best if one’s belief is strong enough!