Aquamarine
Beryl var. Aquamarine · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal system with a prismatic habit, often forming elongated hexagonal columns.
Mineral Group
Cyclosilicate
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal formation, crystallizing from cooling magmatic fluids rich in beryllium, silicon, and aluminum under high temperature and pressure conditions.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a light blue, elongated slice of aquamarine set horizontally in a ring. It exhibits a translucent to semi-transparent clarity with a vitreous luster, showcasing a cool pastel blue hue and a smooth polished surface.
Physical Characteristics
Light blue body color with a white streak. It exhibits poor to indistinct basal cleavage and a conchoidal to uneven fracture. The specific gravity is approximately 2.68 to 2.74, and it has a brittle tenacity with no significant magnetism.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial negative with a refractive index ranging from 1.577 to 1.583. It displays weak dichroism with pale blue and colorless/blue-green hues, and is doubly refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States, typically found in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it very durable and well-suited for everyday jewelry wear, though it can still be scratched by harder minerals like quartz or topaz.
Care & Maintenance
Can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners if inclusions are present, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent potential color fading.
Rarity & Value
Moderately common to rare depending on the saturation of the blue color and clarity. High-saturation deep blue stones command high prices, while lighter pastel slices like this are more accessible.
Special Characteristics
Often exhibits faint parallel growth lines or tubular inclusions. It lacks significant chatoyancy or asterism in this form, but displays a serene pastel pleochroism.
Lore & History
Historically used by sailors as a talisman of protection and safe voyages across the ocean. In modern metaphysical practices, it is associated with the throat chakra, promoting clear communication, tranquility, and emotional balance.