Rich bluish-green to pure vivid green; trace chromium and vanadium impart the signature emerald hue.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Cr³⁺/V³⁺ (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate with Chromium and/or Vanadium)
Beryl • Beryl
Aquamarine
Pastel sky blue to deep sea-blue and greenish-blue, colored by trace iron within the hexagonal channel structure.
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe²⁺/Fe³⁺Mohs 7.5 – 8.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Beryl |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Beryl |
| Gemological Variety | Aquamarine |
| Chemical Composition | Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe²⁺/Fe³⁺ |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 7.5 – 8.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 2.68 – 2.74 |
| Refractive Index | 1.577 – 1.583 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Pastel sky blue to deep sea-blue and greenish-blue, colored by trace iron within the hexagonal channel structure.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Crystallizes in granitic miarolitic pegmatites. The Shigar, Braldu, Hunza, and Nagar valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan produce world-famous terminated hexagonal crystals on albite and muscovite matrix.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Karakoram aquamarine specimens on matrix are icons of the mineral collecting world, while loupe-clean faceted stones offer crisp vitreous brilliance.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Versatile and durable for cocktail rings, emerald-cut pendants, and bridal jewelry.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Many faceted aquamarines in the trade are gently heat-treated (~375–450°C) to remove greenish ferric iron components and leave pure ferrous blue. Matrix mineral specimens are prized in their natural unheated state.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe only for eye-clean, unfractured faceted stones, not matrix specimens.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Historically associated by mariners and travelers with calm waters, clear communication, and serenity. Traditional March birthstone.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Beryl
Related Entries
Soft rose pink, peach, and salmon-pink hues caused by trace manganese; often forms flat tabular hexagonal crystals.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Mn²⁺/Mn³⁺
Lemon yellow, golden honey, to greenish-yellow, colored by ferric iron (Fe3+) substituting for aluminum.
Chemical formula
Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ + Fe³⁺