igneous
Green beryl-bearing pegmatite (possibly aquamarine)
Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈, in a coarse-grained granitic pegmatite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale blue-green, translucent to opaque crystals in a light-colored matrix; beryl has a hexagonal crystal structure, vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 7.5–8, and poor cleavage. The specimen appears rough and matrix-bound; exact mineral identification cannot be confirmed from the image alone.
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Pale blue-green, translucent to opaque crystals in a light-colored matrix; beryl has a hexagonal crystal structure, vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 7.5–8, and poor cleavage. The specimen appears rough and matrix-bound; exact mineral identification cannot be confirmed from the image alone.
Formation & geological history
Pegmatite forms when late-stage, water- and element-rich granitic melt cools slowly in dikes or veins. Beryl crystallizes from this melt; pegmatites are generally Precambrian to recent, depending on the deposit.
Uses & applications
Aquamarine-quality beryl is cut for jewelry; lower-grade beryl-bearing pegmatite is mainly collected as a mineral specimen. Pegmatites can also yield feldspar, mica, and industrial minerals.
Geological facts
Beryl’s color depends on trace elements: iron gives aquamarine its blue-green hues, while chromium or vanadium can produce emerald.
Field identification & locations
Look for pale blue-green, commonly hexagonal beryl crystals associated with quartz and feldspar in coarse pegmatite. Beryl-bearing pegmatites occur worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.
