mineral
Aquamarine
Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.74
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Pale blue to light green
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to light green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.74
Formation & geological history
Found principally in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Often forms in gas cavities within these igneous rocks through the cooling of mineral-rich water solutions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry. Industrially, low-grade beryl can be a source of beryllium metal, used in lightweight alloys for aerospace and telecommunications.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning 'water of the sea'. It is the birthstone for March and is famous for its clear, sky-blue color which is caused by trace amounts of iron.
Field identification & locations
Look for a glassy luster and a lack of visible cleavage. It can be found in mountain ranges like the Rockies in Colorado, or in regions of Brazil and Pakistan. It will scratch glass but not topaz.
