Aquamarine
Beryl var. Aquamarine · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal system with a prismatic crystal habit, often forming elongated hexagonal columns.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Cyclosilicates)
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18
Formation Process
Igneous and hydrothermal processes, specifically crystallizing within cooling pegmatite magma chambers and cavities under high temperature and pressure.
About This Crystal
A small, pale blue-to-greenish-blue rough crystal fragment. It exhibits translucent to semi-transparent clarity with a vitreous to greasy luster and a somewhat irregular, weathered surface structure.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from very pale blue to light blue-green; white streak; poor to indistinct cleavage; conchoidal to uneven fracture; specific gravity around 2.67-2.80; brittle tenacity; non-magnetic.
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive with uniaxial negative optical character. Refractive index ranges from 1.577 to 1.583. Weak to moderate pleochroism showing colorless-blue to blue-green.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with notable sources in Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and the USA. Typically forms in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, offering good durability and wearability for jewelry, though caution is needed around sharp impacts due to potential brittle fracture.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if inclusions are present. Store separately to prevent scratching softer stones and avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on saturation and clarity. Deep blue colors command high values, whereas pale rough fragments like this are relatively affordable and common.
Special Characteristics
May occasionally display chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) when cut en cabochon, though this rough specimen shows standard translucent crystal properties.
Lore & History
Historically associated with sailors as a protective talisman against sea dangers. In metaphysical lore, it is linked with the throat chakra, tranquility, and clear communication, though these are traditional beliefs.