mineral
Beryl (Aquamarine)
Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.80.
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- pale blue to greenish-blue
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.80.
Formation & geological history
Commonly formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Crystals grow in cavities where mineral-rich fluids cool slowly, allowing for large hexagonal shapes.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone (jewelry) when transparent; opaque specimens are used as a source of beryllium metal for aerospace and electronics industries.
Geological facts
The blue color in aquamarine is caused by trace amounts of ferrous iron (Fe2+). It is the official state gem of Colorado.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit, hardness (it will scratch glass and quartz), and specific pale blue-green hue. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and Madagascar.
