Rock Identifier
Rough blue-green beryl, likely aquamarine (Beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), possibly aquamarine variety) — mineral
mineral

Rough blue-green beryl, likely aquamarine

Beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), possibly aquamarine variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale blue-green to nearly colorless, translucent, vitreous luster; beryl crystallizes in the hexagonal system and has Mohs hardness 7.5–8. The specimen appears rough and fractured; its color alone cannot confirm aquamarine.

Identified More mineral →
Explore Rough blue-green beryl, likely aquamarine in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Pale blue-green to nearly colorless, translucent, vitreous luster; beryl crystallizes in the hexagonal system and has Mohs hardness 7.5–8. The specimen appears rough and fractured; its color alone cannot confirm aquamarine.

Formation & geological history

Beryl forms in pegmatites and some metamorphic rocks as magma-rich fluids crystallize. Such deposits span a wide range of geological ages.

Uses & applications

Gem-quality aquamarine is cut for jewelry; lower-grade beryl is collected as a mineral specimen. Beryl is also an important source of beryllium.

Geological facts

Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of beryl; other beryl varieties include emerald and morganite.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness, and hexagonal crystal form, though rough fragments may lack clear crystal faces. Aquamarine-bearing pegmatites occur in Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and elsewhere; confirm identity with testing rather than appearance alone.