Aquamarine
Beryl var. Aquamarine · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal; typically occurs as elongated hexagonal prisms with flat pinacoidal terminations
Mineral Group
Cyclosilicates (Beryl Group)
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18 (with Fe2+ and Fe3+ trace elements affecting color)
Formation Process
Igneous formation; primarily found in granite pegmatites and sometimes in hydrothermal veins or alluvial deposits
About This Crystal
A pale greenish-blue to blue gemstone. When tumbled as shown, it exhibits a vitreous to waxy luster and varies from translucent to nearly transparent. It may contain parallel liquid-filled inclusions or 'rain' inclusions.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale blue to sea-green; Streak: White; Cleavage: One direction (imperfect); Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.66–2.80; Fluorescence: Generally inert to weak greenish-yellow under SWUV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.577–1.583; Birefringence: 0.005–0.009; Pleochroism: Weak to distinct (blue and colorless/yellowish); Singly/Doubly Refractive: Doubly refractive (Uniaxial negative).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), Pakistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Mozambique
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7.5–8.0; Toughness: Good, though susceptible to fracture if internal inclusions are present; Stability: Good, though can fade if exposed to extreme heat.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners if the stone has liquid inclusions. Store away from harder stones like Sapphire or Diamond.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon; value is determined by color intensity (deeper blue is rarer), clarity, and size. Heat treatment is standard practice to remove greenish tints.
Special Characteristics
Can occasionally show chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) or asterism if concentrated tube-like inclusions are present; often features 'phantom' growth zones.
Lore & History
Historically known as the 'sailor's stone,' believed to protect those at sea. Symbolically associated with the throat chakra and tranquility. Used in ancient Roman and Greek jewelry as a symbol of eternal youth and happiness.