mineral
Aquamarine (Beryl)
Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)
Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.80
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Pale blue to light green
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral →
Explore Aquamarine (Beryl) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.80
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites through hydrothermal processes where beryllium-rich fluids crystallize in granitic magma chambers during the final stages of cooling.
Uses & applications
Primary use as a gemstone in jewelry; also a source of beryllium used in aerospace and electronics industries.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning sea water. It is the birthstone for March and is relatively abundant compared to its cousin, the emerald.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its pale blue/green hue, high hardness, and hexagonal prismatic crystal habits. Found in Brazil, Pakistan, and Madagascar. Collectors value clear, unfractured crystals.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock