Semi-Precious Stones · uncommon
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a blue variety of beryl, the same mineral family as emerald. Its name means 'water of the sea' in Latin.
Also known as: march birthstone, blue beryl, sea water stone.
Aquamarine properties at a glance
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Be3Al2(SiO3)6 |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | Imperfect |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Light Blue, Blue-Green, Greenish Blue |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Forms in pegmatites from beryllium-rich fluids. The blue color comes from trace iron impurities.
Ancient Romans believed aquamarine could reconcile enemies and make new friends.
How to identify Aquamarine
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Aquamarine examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Aquamarine identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Aquamarine vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Aquamarine.
Where Aquamarine is found
Aquamarine is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Aquamarine worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $50 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $300 |
| Premium specimen | $5000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Collector specimens
Interesting facts
- The largest gem-quality aquamarine weighed over 110 kg
- Sailors believed it calmed waves and kept them safe
- Heat treatment can enhance the blue color
Care & safety
Treat Aquamarine as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Aquamarine FAQ
What is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a blue variety of beryl, the same mineral family as emerald. Its name means 'water of the sea' in Latin.
How much is Aquamarine worth?
Entry-level Aquamarine specimens sell for around $50, a typical collector specimen for about $300, and premium pieces for $5000 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine has a Mohs hardness of 7.5. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it.
Where is Aquamarine found?
Notable sources of Aquamarine include Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, Russia, and Colorado, USA. Forms in pegmatites from beryllium-rich fluids.
What is Aquamarine used for?
Aquamarine is used for jewelry and collector specimens.
