mineral

Aquamarine

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Fe2+ impurities)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: light blue to greenish-blue, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.74

Hardness: 7

Identified March 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: light blue to greenish-blue, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.74

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Secondary deposits can be found in alluvial gravels. Typically associated with igneous activity across various geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primary use as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings). Transparent specimens are highly valued by collectors.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. The name originates from the Latin 'aqua marina' meaning sea water. The largest gem-quality crystal ever found was in Marambaia, Brazil, weighing over 110 kilograms.

Field identification & locations

Found commonly in Brazil, Pakistan, and Madagascar. In the field, look for hexagonal prismatic crystals in coarse-grained igneous rocks. It can be distinguished from blue topaz by its density and lower refractive index.

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