Lucas hasa a discussion of beryl, which he states is of the same composition as emerald (both double silicates of beryllium and aluminum) but of inferior quality. "Beryl occurs in the Sikait-Zubura region of the Red Sea Hills . . . and were probably the original and only source of beryl in classical times. . . . Several attempts have been made in modern times to reopen the mines, all of which have proved commercial failures, becuase the stones are not of sufficiently good quality to meet modern requirements . . . and although stones of good enough quality to rank as true emeralds . . . may well have been found in the past, none such has been found in modern times." Lucas, Ancient Egyptian Materials and Industries , at 389.

Lee