gemstone
Aquamarine
Beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6)
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue, blue-green, light green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor. Specific Gravity: 2.68 to 2.74
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Pale blue, blue-green, light green
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue, blue-green, light green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor. Specific Gravity: 2.68 to 2.74
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in pegmatites and in cavities within granitic rocks, as well as in hydrothermal veins, as molten rock and hot gases cool and crystallize over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in high-end jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings, and valued by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Aquamarine is the blue variety of beryl and gets its name from the Latin word for seawater. The largest gem-quality aquamarine ever found was in Minas Gerais, Brazil, in 1910.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive hexagonal crystal habit, pale blue-green color, and high hardness. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and the USA.
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