mineral

Beryl (var. Aquamarine/Blue Beryl) in Quartz Matrix

Beryllium Aluminum Silicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue (aquamarine) surrounded by white quartz and micaceous minerals, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect/Pinacoidal.

Hardness: 7

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

Explore Beryl (var. Aquamarine/Blue Beryl) in Quartz Matrix in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Typically forms in granitic pegmatites or metamorphic hydrothermal veins when beryllium is enriched in the final stages of magma crystallization. Frequently found in Precambrian and Mesozoic deposits.

Uses & applications

Finer specimens are cut into gemstones for jewelry. Raw matrix specimens are prized by mineral collectors and used as a source of Beryllium for aerospace and electronics alloys.

Geological facts

The name 'Aquamarine' is derived from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning sea water, owing to its distinct color. It is the birthstone for March and is chemically related to Emerald.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for hexagonal crystal habits within quartz or feldspar veins. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and parts of the United States (Colorado, Idaho). Look for the characteristic glassy, blue-tinted transparency in coarse-grained igneous rocks.

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Mineral

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Mineral/Rock

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

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