mineral

Beryl in Quartz Matrix

Beryllium Aluminum Silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Beryl), 7.0 (Quartz); Color: Pale green to white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal crystals in massive quartz; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale green to white
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Beryl), 7.0 (Quartz); Color: Pale green to white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal crystals in massive quartz; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites through hydrothermal processes where beryllium-rich fluids crystallize in vugs or veins among quartz and feldspar.

Uses & applications

Source of beryllium metal for aerospace/electronics, gemstone specimen (emerald/aquamarine family) for collectors.

Geological facts

Beryl is the primary ore for Beryllium, a metal lighter than aluminum but stronger than steel. When beryl is deep green, it is known as Emerald.

Field identification & locations

Look for hexagonal prismatic crystals (6-sided) embedded in glassy quartz. Common in pegmatite-rich regions like Brazil, Russia, and New England (USA).

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

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Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

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mineral