Beryl

specimen number:
2063007

location:
Middletown, Middlesex Co., Connecticut, USA

description:
Pale yellow prismatic crystals of opaque semi lustrous beryl to 1.5 cm in height coming off of a massive smoky quartz matrix. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

The geology of the Middletown area in Middlesex County, Connecticut, is characterized by complex metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss that are heavily intruded by coarse-grained granitic pegmatites dating back hundreds of millions of years. Commercial quarrying and mining of these pegmatites began in the 19th century, initially focusing on feldspar and muscovite mica for industrial ceramics, glass, and manufacturing. Beryl occurs as an accessory mineral within these zoned pegmatite dikes, drawing historical interest as a source of beryllium during wartime and remaining a sought-after prize for recreational mineral collectors exploring the old quarry dumps and rock cuts today.

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