mineral
Aquamarine in pegmatite
Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈ (blue-green variety: aquamarine)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectThe central crystal appears pale blue-green, translucent, and prismatic with flat faces, consistent with beryl; the matrix is quartz-rich pegmatite with mica and feldspar. Beryl has Mohs hardness 7.5–8, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal symmetry, and poor-to-indistinct cleavage; specific gravity is about 2.63–2.80.
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Physical properties
The central crystal appears pale blue-green, translucent, and prismatic with flat faces, consistent with beryl; the matrix is quartz-rich pegmatite with mica and feldspar. Beryl has Mohs hardness 7.5–8, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal symmetry, and poor-to-indistinct cleavage; specific gravity is about 2.63–2.80.
Formation & geological history
Forms in late-stage, water-rich granitic pegmatites as magma cools and concentrates beryllium. Most specimens formed during Precambrian to Mesozoic pegmatite activity, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Transparent aquamarine is cut for jewelry; larger crystals are collector specimens. Pegmatite minerals are also important sources of quartz, feldspar, mica, and occasionally lithium-related minerals.
Geological facts
The blue-green color generally comes from iron impurities. The specimen may also contain altered feldspar, smoky or milky quartz, and mica; exact identification would benefit from a hardness, refractive-index, or laboratory test.
Field identification & locations
Look for six-sided prismatic crystals, pale blue-green color, glassy luster, and hardness sufficient to scratch glass, embedded in coarse pegmatite. Common sources include Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Russia, and Colorado, USA.
