mineral

Aquamarine (Beryl)

Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Light blue to blue-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal System: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.74

Hardness: 7
Color: Light blue to blue-green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Light blue to blue-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal System: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.74

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal processes involving beryllium-rich fluids. It occurs in late-stage crystallization of magma.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

The name 'Aquamarine' is derived from the Latin 'aqua marina' meaning sea water. The largest gem-quality aquamarine ever found was the Marambaia specimen in Brazil, weighing 110 kg.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct pale blue color, high hardness (scratches glass/quartz), and hexagonal prism shape. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and Madagascar.

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