Mineral

Aquamarine

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with trace Fe2+)

Hardness: 7.5 - 8.0 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor. Specific Gravity: 2.67 - 2.90.

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5 - 8.0 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor. Specific Gravity: 2.67 - 2.90.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks (schists). The blue color results from trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure. Geological age varies by deposit, ranging from several million to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry as a gemstone. It is also a collector's mineral specimen. Beryl (the parent mineral) is a source of beryllium, used in aerospace and high-tech industries.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and the 19th wedding anniversary gemstone. Its name is derived from the Latin 'aqua marina', meaning 'seawater'. In folklore, it was believed to protect sailors at sea.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit, hardness (will scratch glass), and lack of significant cleavage. Found commonly in Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, and the United States (Colorado). Collectors look for high clarity and saturated blue hues.