mineral

Aquamarine

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to light green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80.

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale blue to light green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to light green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80.

Formation & geological history

Formed in pegmatites, which are igneous rocks that result from the cooling of magma with high concentrations of water and rare elements. It is often found alongside minerals like quartz and feldspar in granitic veins.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry as a gemstone. Lesser quality specimens are used for mineral collecting or as a source of beryllium for industrial alloys.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. Its name comes from the Latin words for water and sea, referring to its ocean-like color. Historically, sailors carried it as a talisman for protection and to prevent seasickness.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit (if preserved), blue-green hue, and high Mohs hardness which prevents it from being scratched by steel. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and parts of the United States like Colorado.