description Brazilianite Overview
Brazilianite is a sodium aluminium phosphate mineral with the chemical formula NaAl3(PO4)2(OH)4. It was recognized as a distinct mineral species in 1945 from material found in Minas Gerais, Brazil, after specimens had initially been mistaken for chrysoberyl. Usually yellow to yellow-green, it can form transparent crystals suitable for faceting, although its relative softness limits use in jewelry.
help Brazilianite FAQ
What is Brazilianite made of?
Brazilianite is a sodium aluminium phosphate with the formula NaAl3(PO4)2(OH)4. It is usually yellow, yellow-green, or chartreuse and crystallizes in the monoclinic system. [Mindat](https://www.mindat.org/min-760.html)
Where was Brazilianite discovered and when was it recognized?
The mineral was formally described in 1945 from material associated with Minas Gerais, Brazil, especially the Córrego Frio pegmatite. Frederick Pough and Edward Porter Henderson named it for Brazil after specimens first mistaken for chrysoberyl were examined. [Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/157072b0.pdf)
Is Brazilianite suitable for everyday jewelry?
It has a Mohs hardness of about 5.5, so it is softer than quartz and can scratch or chip more easily than durable gems used in daily-wear rings. Faceted Brazilianite is therefore more common in collector pieces and occasional jewelry than in hard-wearing settings. [Mindat](https://www.mindat.org/min-760.html)
Why was Brazilianite mistaken for chrysoberyl?
Its transparent yellow-green crystals resemble yellow chrysoberyl at a glance, which led dealers to use that name before testing. Its different crystal structure and sodium-aluminium-phosphate chemistry showed that it was a new mineral species. [Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/157072b0.pdf)
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