Where Is the Mineral Aquamarine Formed?

Location

• Aquamarine is found in Brazil, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, Madagascar, Zambia, Angola and the United States.

Formation

• Aquamarine forms in granite pegmatites, and in hydrothermal carbonate veins and greisens. Aquamarines can also form in eluvial and aluvial deposits.

Chemistry

• The chemical formula of aquamarine is Be3Al2(Si6O18). The hexagonal crystal structure consists of elongated prismatic crystals that are vertically striated. It produces a white streak and has a hardness value of 7.5 to 8.0.

Color

• The color of aquamarine is a result of iron impurities within the mineral. Heating the mineral to 750 degrees Fahrenheit reduces yellow and green colors, and leaves the pure blue color.

Fun Fact

• Aquamarine is derived from the Latin phrase for "sea water." It is known as "the gem of the sea" because of its sparkling blue color.