mineral

Raw aquamarine (likely beryl)

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; blue color from iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale blue-green, vitreous luster, translucent, and commonly hexagonal; Mohs hardness 7.5–8, poor cleavage, specific gravity about 2.68–2.80. The specimen appears as a rough, heavily included crystal or vein fragment, though the image is not definitive.

Identified August 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in lithium- and beryllium-rich granite pegmatites during late-stage magma crystallization, generally in Precambrian to younger continental crust. Common localities include Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Colorado.

Uses & applications

Transparent material is cut as aquamarine gemstones; opaque or fractured pieces are primarily mineral specimens. Beryl is also an important beryllium ore, used in lightweight aerospace alloys and specialized electronics.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the blue variety of beryl, while emerald is the green chromium- or vanadium-bearing variety. Heating can reduce green tones and intensify blue coloration.

Field identification & locations

Check for a hexagonal habit, glassy luster, hardness above quartz, and lack of obvious cleavage; blue-green fluorite, calcite, or glass are common look-alikes. Acid and scratch testing should be avoided on valuable specimens.