Aquamarine
Beryl var. Aquamarine · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal crystal system, typically forming prismatic crystals with basal pinacoids.
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically the cyclosilicate subgroup
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18 with trace Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal formation, crystallizing from cooling magma rich in beryllium and volatile elements under high temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
A tumbled, pale blue-green specimen with a smooth, polished surface and translucent to sub-translucent clarity. It displays soft white matrix inclusions and minor iron-oxide staining in surface crevices.
Physical Characteristics
Pale greenish-blue body color with a white streak. It exhibits poor to indistinct cleavage, a conchoidal to uneven fracture, a specific gravity of approximately 2.68 to 2.74, and brittle tenacity. Generally inert under UV light.
Optical Properties
Refractive index ranges from 1.577 to 1.583 with weak birefringence. It is doubly refractive (uniaxial negative) and typically exhibits faint dichroism in shades of pale blue and blue-green.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, Zambia, and the United States. Forms primarily in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it durable and well-suited for everyday jewelry wear. Good toughness, though it can fracture if subjected to sharp blows along potential parting planes.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, high heat, and prolonged direct sunlight to prevent potential color alteration. Store separately from harder stones to avoid scratching.
Rarity & Value
Moderately common as a gemstone, though high-saturation deep blue stones are rare and valuable. This tumbled specimen is relatively common and affordable. Heat treatment is frequently used to eliminate yellowish or greenish tints.
Special Characteristics
May occasionally exhibit rare cat's-eye chatoyancy when cut as a cabochon, or contain hollow tubular liquid inclusions that can produce a silky sheen.
Lore & History
Historically regarded as the treasure of mermaids, sailors used aquamarine as a talisman for safe voyages and protection against storms. Associated with the throat chakra in modern crystal healing, symbolizing clarity, communication, and serenity.