mineral

Beryl (Aquamarine)

Beryllium Aluminum Cyclosilicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Prismatic; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.80

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale greenish-blue
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Prismatic; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.80

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins through the cooling of magma rich in beryllium and volatile fluids; typically found in igneous environments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry (aquamarine) and as an ore for beryllium metal used in aerospace, defense, and telecommunications industries.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and means 'water of the sea' in Latin. Large, high-quality crystals are highly sought after by museums and private collectors.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hexagonal prismatic crystal habit and pale blue-green color. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and the Ural Mountains. Hardness helps distinguish it from softer lookalikes like apatite.