Rock Identifier
Aquamarine-like beryl pendant (Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; the beads may be dyed or treated chalcedony/amazonite, so image-only identification is uncertain) — gemstone
gemstone

Aquamarine-like beryl pendant

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; the beads may be dyed or treated chalcedony/amazonite, so image-only identification is uncertain

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale blue-green, translucent, vitreous to waxy luster, hexagonal beryl structure, Mohs hardness 7.5–8, poor cleavage, specific gravity about 2.63–2.80. The pendant is polished and faceted with cloudy inclusions and fractures.

Identified More gemstone →
Explore Aquamarine-like beryl pendant in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Pale blue-green, translucent, vitreous to waxy luster, hexagonal beryl structure, Mohs hardness 7.5–8, poor cleavage, specific gravity about 2.63–2.80. The pendant is polished and faceted with cloudy inclusions and fractures.

Formation & geological history

Beryl forms in miarolitic cavities of granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, generally during late Paleozoic–Mesozoic or younger intrusive events; aquamarine is colored by iron. Common sources include Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as a jewelry gemstone and ornamental pendant; beryl varieties are also commercially important as a source of beryllium. Beads are commonly made from lower-grade or imitation material.

Geological facts

The pendant’s very pale, cloudy appearance and irregular fractures make high-grade aquamarine unlikely; chalcedony, fluorite, or treated quartz are plausible alternatives.

Field identification & locations

Check hardness, refractive index, specific gravity, and magnification for hexagonal growth or inclusions; a gemological test is needed for certainty. Avoid assuming the bead material matches the pendant.