It is sometimes stated that there exists some Maxixe-type deep blue beryl (occasionally misnamed "aquamarine") that does not fade. All specimens ever reported in the literature did fade, typically to almost colorless in one to two weeks in bright sunlight or over a somewhat longer period under less intense illumination. A "nonfading" specimen recently examined proved to be typical fading Maxixe-type beryl. A possible reason why such a stone might give the impression that it is nonfading is discussed. With the exception of some brown topaz and some kunzite, no significant gemstone material fades on the same time scale as does Maxixe-type beryl.
It is sometimes stated that there exists some Maxixe-type deep blue beryl (occasionally misnamed "aquamarine") that does not fade. All specimens ever reported in the literature did fade, typically to almost colorless in one to two weeks in bright sunlight or over a somewhat longer period under less intense illumination. A "nonfading" specimen recently examined proved to be typical fading Maxixe-type beryl. A possible reason why such a stone might give the impression that it is nonfading is discussed. With the exception of some brown topaz and some kunzite, no significant gemstone material fades on the same time scale as does Maxixe-type beryl.
