mineral
Aquamarine
Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with iron impurities)
Hardness: 7.5-8 Mohs. Color: Light blue to sea-green. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Imperfect basal. Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.74.
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Light blue to sea-green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8 Mohs. Color: Light blue to sea-green. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Imperfect basal. Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.74.
Formation & geological history
Formed predominantly in granite pegmatites and metamorphic hydrothermal veins, crystallized slowly from beryllium-rich magmatic fluids.
Uses & applications
Popular gemstone widely used in fine jewelry, beaded bracelets, cabochons, carved ornaments, and lapidary arts.
Geological facts
The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning 'sea water', due to its distinctive pale blue-green color. It is the official birthstone for the month of March.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its distinctive sky-blue color, high hardness (scratches glass easily), vitreous luster, and lack of distinct cleavage. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, and Nigeria.
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