mineral

Aquamarine

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with iron impurities)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.66 - 2.80.

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.66 - 2.80.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic hydrothermal veins. Color is derived from trace amounts of ferrous iron (Fe2+). Can be found in geological deposits ranging from millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in the jewelry industry; high-quality specimens are highly valued by mineral collectors. It is also the birthstone for March.

Geological facts

The name comes from Latin 'aqua marina', meaning 'water of the sea'. Historically, it was believed to protect sailors at sea and prevent seasickness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pale blue/cyan hue, transparency, and high hardness (scratching quartz). Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, and Nigeria. In the field, look for hexagonal prismatic crystals in mica-rich pegmatite environments.

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