gemstone

Aquamarine (Beryl) Beads

Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8 Mohs. Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal structure: Hexagonal. Specific gravity: 2.66-2.80. Translucent to transparent with a waxy to vitreous finish when polished.

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

Identified July 17, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. They occur when beryllium-rich magma cools and interacts with surrounding rocks, often found in metamorphic or igneous environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, faceted stones, cabochons) and as a collector's mineral. Blue beryl is also the birthstone for March.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning 'water of the sea'. Heat treatment is often applied to greenish-yellow beryl to turn it into the more desirable blue aquamarine color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pale blue color and high hardness (it will scratch glass and quartz). Common locations include Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, and the United States (Colorado).

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