mineral

Aquamarine

Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale blue to light green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80

Hardness: 7

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

Explore Aquamarine in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale blue to light green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Crystals grow during the cooling of magma rich in volatile elements. Found in ancient metamorphic rocks and alluvial deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-quality jewelry. It is also a source of beryllium, which is used in high-tech alloys for aerospace and electronics.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. The name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning sea water, referring to its color. Historically, sailors believed it would protect them during voyages.

Field identification & locations

Check for its high hardness and hexagonal crystal shape. It is commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Colorado (USA). To identify in the field, look for hexagonal blue-green crystals in pegmatite outcrops.