Gemstones Beginning with "B"

Beryl is a species name used by gemologists. Green beryls are called emerald, blue beryls are called aquamarine and all beryls of other colors are called precious beryl.

Black Lip is a form of mother-of-pearl with a deep-gray to black coloring with occasional white sections. It also can appear in a greenish color or full rainbow. It is cut from a special black-lipped mollusk found in French Polynesian waters that naturally secretes a black pigment. The amount of pigment secreted results in the variation in shades from black to light gray. See Mother-of-Pearl and Pearl for more information.

Black Stone is a dyed stone that looks similar to onyx, although not as shiny. Black stone is made from a variety of abundant stones that can be dyed permanently black, therefore classification information is not available.

Bloodstone is an opaque, dark-green chalcedony with specks of red. It is sometimes referred to as blood jasper (although it is not a jasper), and in Europe it is called heliotrope. Deposits can be found in India, Australia, Brazil, China and the United States. Bloodstone is said to strengthen the body, cleanse the blood and bring vitality to the system; to help maintain stamina during periods of intense physical activity and give the strength to overcome obstacles; to encourage belief in oneself and commitment to spiritual goals; and to promote good physical and emotional health. Mohs' hardness: 6-1/2 to 7.

Blue Lace Agate is a descriptive name referring to this agate's delicate bands, stripes and specks of cream or white interlaced with pale blue. Deposits can be found in Brazil, South Africa and Uruguay. Blue lace agate is said to bring peace and calm to the mind and help the body to relax; to enhance sleep quality and ease feelings of anxiety; to help ease anger and inflamed emotions; and to ease inflammation on the body. Mohs' hardness: 7.

Botswana Agate is, as its name suggests, an agate from the African country Botswana. It is banded with fine, parallel lines of tan, mahogany, pink and white. See Agate for more information.

Bronzite is a deep brown to golden brown form of the gemstone enstatite, with a metallic luster. Deposits can be found in Austria, South Africa, Syria and Montana. Bronzite is said to facilitate a feeling of certainty when goal-setting and help to take control of actions and decisions. Mohs' hardness: 5 to 6.

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