mineral

Beryl (likely Aquamarine or Green Beryl)

Beryllium aluminum silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to light blue; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.92.

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale green to light blue
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to light blue; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.92.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites or hydrothermal veins where beryllium is present. Usually associated with quartz, feldspar, and mica. Geological age varies by site, often millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, as a source of beryllium metal for aerospace and electronics, and as a popular collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

The name 'Beryl' comes from the Greek word 'beryllos'. Emerald and Aquamarine are both varieties of Beryl. Large specimens can weigh several tons in rare instances.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit (if visible) and its high hardness. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and various locations in the United States like Maine and Colorado.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral