mineral

Beryl (Variety: Aquamarine)

Beryllium Aluminum Cyclosilicate (Be3Al2Si6O18)

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80

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

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue to greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.66-2.80

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. It crystalizes from mineral-rich fluids as they cool. Most significant deposits are from the Cenozoic era, though geological age varies by location.

Uses & applications

Primary source of beryllium metal for aerospace and defense industries; high-grade specimens are used as gemstones in jewelry; popular among mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The blue color is caused by trace amounts of iron (Fe2+). It is the state gem of Colorado and is often found in the same environments as topaz and tourmaline.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hexagonal prismatic crystal habit, high hardness (will scratch glass), and characteristically pale blue/cyan hue. Commonly found in Brazil, Pakistan, and the Ural Mountains of Russia.

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