mineral
Aquamarine
Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)
Hardness: 7.5–8.0 Mohs; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63–2.80
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Pale blue to light green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5–8.0 Mohs; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63–2.80
Formation & geological history
Forms in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. They crystallized from cooling magma as rare elements like Beryllium concentrated in fluid-rich pockets.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) and as a highly sought-after specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The name comes from Latin 'aqua marina' meaning 'water of the sea'. It is the birthstone for March and is famous for its association with sailors, who carried it for protection at sea.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pale blue color and hexagonal crystal habit. Common locations include Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Madagascar. Look for clarity and intensity of blue to determine quality.
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