Aquamarine
Beryl var. Aquamarine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal, typically forming prismatic crystals with hexagonal cross-sections, though this specimen is tumbled
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Cyclosilicates
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18 with iron (Fe2+ and Fe3+) trace elements
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal, crystallizing from cooling magma rich in water and volatile elements under high temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A polished, tumbled smooth pebble of pale sea-green to blue-green aquamarine. It exhibits a vitreous to waxy luster due to tumbling, with translucent to semi-translucent transparency and subtle internal cloudiness and whitish veil inclusions characteristic of natural beryl.
Physical Characteristics
Color is pale greenish-blue; streak is white; cleavage is poor on {0001}; fracture is conchoidal to uneven; specific gravity is approximately 2.68 to 2.74; tenacity is brittle; non-magnetic; exhibits faint to moderate blue fluorescence under shortwave UV light in some specimens
Optical Properties
Singly or weakly doubly refractive with a refractive index around 1.570 to 1.580; birefringence is low (0.005-0.009); exhibits weak to moderate dichroism with pale blue and greenish-blue hues viewed from different angles
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, Zambia, and the United States; forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, offering very good durability and wearability for jewelry use with good toughness, though it can fracture along stress lines if impacted heavily
Care & Maintenance
Clean safely using warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners if inclusions are heavy; store separately from harder stones like diamonds to prevent scratching; stable in light and ordinary heat
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on saturation and clarity; deep saturated blue stones command high prices, while pale tumbled stones like this are affordable and common; heat treatment is occasionally used to reduce green components and enhance blue color
Special Characteristics
May occasionally exhibit cat-eye chatoyancy when cut as a cabochon due to parallel tubular inclusions, though this tumbled specimen shows standard internal veiling and cloudy inclusions typical of natural beryl
Lore & History
Historically used by sailors as a talisman of protection, good luck, and fearless voyages across stormy seas; associated with the throat chakra in metaphysical practices, symbolizing tranquility, clarity, and emotional release