mineral

Aquamarine on Feldspar Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with Potassium Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8 (Beryl), 6 (Feldspar). Color: Pale blue to sea-foam green crystal on white/cream base. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Beryl), Monoclinic/Triclinic (Feldspar). Cleavage: Imperfect (Beryl), Perfect in two directions (Feldspar).

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale blue to sea-foam green crystal on white/cream base
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

Explore Aquamarine on Feldspar Matrix in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites. These are igneous rocks that cool slowly, allowing for the growth of large, high-quality crystals. Common geological ages range from the Paleozoic to the Cenozoic, depending on the specific mountain-building event.

Uses & applications

Larger gem-quality crystals are faceted for high-end jewelry. Matrix specimens like this are primarily used for mineral collecting and decor. Minor industrial use of beryl as an ore of beryllium.

Geological facts

Aquamarine gets its name from the Latin 'aqua marina' meaning sea water. The presence of trace amounts of iron (Fe2+) gives it its characteristic blue color. Some of the world's most famous aquamarine specimens are found in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil and the mountains of Pakistan.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the distinct hexagonal (six-sided) prism shape of the blue crystal and its hardness (it will scratch glass). Commonly found in high-altitude pegmatite veins in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Brazil, and the Ural Mountains. When collecting, look for minerals like quartz, tourmaline, and mica which often occur together.