Beryl

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈbɛɹ.əl/

Definitions

1. A crystalline mineral that occurs in numerous hues and is esteemed for its use in ornaments
2. A valuable gemstone renowned for its hexagonal crystals and diverse coloration, often utilized in fine jewelry
3. A precious mineral identified by its hexagonal form and various colors, commonly valued in the creation of decorative items and jewelry

Etymology: The most surprising thing about "beryl" is that its journey begins in southern India, not Greece. Middle Indic speakers used forms like "veḷuriya" or "verulia" for a gemstone, and those names trace back to the Dravidian languages, probably after the town of Velur, known today as Belur, in southern India. The stone travelled westward along trade routes, and the Greeks adopted the name as "bḗrullos." From Greek, the word passed into Latin as "bērillus" or "bēryllus," and then into Old French as "beril." English borrowed it from there in the Middle English period, so the word reached English through French rather than directly from Greek or Latin.

Synonyms: emerald, aquamarine