mineral
Pale green beryl (likely aquamarine)
Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; blue-green varieties are aquamarine
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7.5–8; pale blue-green, translucent, vitreous luster, commonly hexagonal crystals with imperfect basal cleavage. The rough, irregular piece may also be pale-green fluorite or quartz, so identification is provisional without hardness, streak, or refractive tests.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7.5–8; pale blue-green, translucent, vitreous luster, commonly hexagonal crystals with imperfect basal cleavage. The rough, irregular piece may also be pale-green fluorite or quartz, so identification is provisional without hardness, streak, or refractive tests.
Formation & geological history
Forms mainly in granite pegmatites and hydrothermal cavities when beryllium-rich fluids crystallize; specimens range from Precambrian to younger geological ages. Aquamarine is found in Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Russia.
Uses & applications
Gem-quality aquamarine is faceted for jewelry; non-gem beryl is collected as a mineral specimen. Ordinary rough material has little industrial value compared with other beryllium ores.
Geological facts
Aquamarine’s color is commonly produced by iron impurities and may be enhanced by heat treatment. Hexagonal crystal form and high hardness help distinguish it from pale-green calcite or fluorite.
Field identification & locations
Look for a hexagonal prism, glassy luster, no obvious cleavage, and a hardness that scratches window glass; avoid destructive tests on valuable pieces. A gemological refractive-index test confirms beryl.
