It forms prismatic crystals with a hexagonal cross-section. [9][16] These crystals can be microscopic to enormous in size and frequently feature faces with vertical striating. The lustre of aquamarine ranges from vitreous to resinous. It can have a glass-like brilliance and a sheen when cut and polished correctly. [9]

If rocks containing aquamarine are exposed by weathering and erosion, the exceptional hardness of aquamarine (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale) will cause it to persist in overlying soils and stream sediments. Much aquamarine has been produced from stream sediments.

This Aquamarine gemstone guide lists qualities of the Aquamarine gem type, including stone colors, common names, meanings, gemstone hardness and more.

Jan 25, 2024 · To identify genuine aquamarine, check for its light blue to greenish-blue color, examine for natural inclusions, and perform a hardness test (7.5-8 on the Mohs scale). Aquamarine won’t attract magnets and should show birefringence. It has a specific gravity of 2.68-2.74 and leaves a white streak. Start with a close look at color and clarity.

Red icons have coordinates entered into the system directly. Green icons have coordinates estimated by the system and may also display a blue margin of error circle around them. White icons are shown in certain pages to distinguish the locality in question from nearby localities.

Feb 2, 2024 · Streak – Both aquamarine and topaz have colorless streaks. Aquamarine with albite photo provided by Saphira Minerals Streak is the color of the powder that a gemstone leaves behind when it’s rubbed on something rough like a special tile called a streak plate.

Jan 7, 2025 · Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl. It is highly prized for its stunning blue to greenish-blue color, reminiscent of the clear waters of the sea, which gives it its name "aquamarine" (aqua meaning water and marine meaning sea).

Some quick facts for Aquamarine: Transparency: Aquamarine can be opaque, translucent or transparent. Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, aquamarine is hexagonal. Luster: In terms of luster, aquamarine is vitreous (glassy). Streak: Aquamarine streaks colorless. Hardness: Aquamarine's hardness ranges from 7.5 to 8 on the Moh's scale.

Mar 7, 2023 · Aquamarine produces a clear streak since it’s harder than a streak plate. Tumbled specimens are tested by scraping samples across a piece of ungalvanized porcelain, typically known as a streak plate.

Aquamarine is the greenish-blue to blue variety of Beryl. It forms in beautiful crystals that can be quite large and totally transparent. Unlike Emerald which usually is flawed or heavily included, Aquamarine can form in stunning flawless crystals, creating …