Bixbite Facet / Faceting Information
A Bixbite is more commonly known as a Red Beryl and are quite rare. This covers tips, guides and information on the cuts and facet that work for Bixbite.
Bixbite Facet / Faceting Information
Bixbite (Beryl)
Color: Red to strawberry-red
Moh's Hardness: 7.5-8
Refractive Index: 1.57-1.60
Critical Angle: 39.87°
Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Conchoidal, tough
Dispersion: .014
Heat Sensitivity: Moderate, depending on how clean the rough is
Dichroism: weak
Birefringence (double refraction): Weak (.006-.009)
Crystal Structure: Hexagonal
Treatments: None usually.
What I prefer to polishing with: Cerium oxide with a Spectra Ultralap.
Jeff's Comments: Rough is rare and expensive, usually small and not clean. Cuts and polishes like any other Beryl, usually no problems… I like to use a 1200 Nu Bond lap for pre-polish, it makes the polishing stage faster and easier. Orientating on the "c" is slightly better.
Design Notes: About any design will work well. I prefer a deeper design and often cut Barions. Step cuts are used a lot because of the small narrow crystals that are available.
Design Links: Signature #4 - This is one of my favorite cuts in Beryl
Blue Ice - Designed for very long crystals
Jeff R. Graham
The late Jeff Graham was a prolific faceter, creator of many original faceting designs, and the author of several highly-regarded instructional faceting books such as Gram Faceting Designs.
Related Articles
Goshenite Facet / Faceting Information
Ruby Sapphire Facet / Faceting Information
Chrysoberyl Facet (Alexanderite) Information
Clear Quartz Facet / Faceting Information
Latest Articles
21 Pink Gemstones (How Many Do You Know?)
How Does Topaz Form?
Sphene (Titanite) Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Citrine Buying Guide
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!