gemstone

Aquamarine (blue beryl) crystals

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; blue variety colored mainly by Fe

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale blue to blue-green, transparent to translucent crystals with a vitreous luster and commonly hexagonal prismatic form. Mohs hardness 7.5–8; distinct basal parting/poor cleavage; specific gravity about 2.68–2.80. The pieces appear to be rough, broken or matrix-free crystal fragments rather than polished stones.

Identified September 20, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in cavities of granitic pegmatites during late-stage crystallization, typically in Precambrian to younger continental crust. The Ethiopian Rift region near 6.7°N, 38.4°E can produce pegmatitic beryl, making this identification regionally plausible.

Uses & applications

Gem-quality aquamarine is faceted for jewelry; lesser material is collected as mineral specimens or used for lapidary work. Value depends strongly on clarity, saturation, crystal size, and damage.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the sea-blue member of the beryl group, which also includes emerald, morganite, and heliodor. Heating can reduce greenish tones and produce a purer blue.

Field identification & locations

Confirm with hexagonal crystal geometry, glassy luster, hardness, and lack of obvious cleavage; quartz is a common look-alike but is harder to scratch only slightly and lacks beryl’s typical prismatic habit. A gemological refractive-index test or Raman/XRF analysis is needed for certainty.