mineral

Beryl (Aquamarine)

Be3Al2Si6O18

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Light blue to greenish-blue (aquamarine); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.80.

Hardness: 7
Color: Light blue to greenish-blue (aquamarine)
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Light blue to greenish-blue (aquamarine); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.80.

Formation & geological history

Found in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. They form as magma cools slowly deep in the Earth's crust, allowing large crystals to grow over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Primary source of beryllium metal for aerospace and defense industries; high-quality specimens are cut into gemstones for jewelry; also a popular specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The blue color of aquamarine is caused by trace amounts of ferrous iron (Fe2+). It is the official state gem of Colorado and the birthstone for March.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), hexagonal crystal habit, and distinct pale blue coloration. Common locations include Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Mozambique.