Definition
Mohs scale hardness 7.5 to 8
A light-blue to light-green form of beryl is known as aquamarine. Heat has the ability to affect the hue of aquamarine. Be3Al2Si6O18 is the chemical formula of aquamarine, which also contains Fe2+. Its hardness ranges from 7.5 to 8. While there aren't many or any discernible inclusions in aquamarine, it can include sea water, mica, or hematite. The gemstone aquamarine is common. There is a more uncommon deep blue variation called maxixe, however it can lose color in sunshine. Maxixe's hue is brought on by NO3. By subjecting green, pink, or yellow beryl to high-energy radiation, the hue dark-blue maxixe can be created (gamma rays, neutrons or even X-rays).
Because it is so plentiful, aquamarine is affordable. It costs more than blue topaz, although it is less expensive than emerald or bixbite. The weight, color, cut, or clarity of an aquamarine determines how much it is worth. Cut aquamarines weighing more than 25 carats will be more affordable per carat than those weighing less. Aquamarine that is genuinely blue in nature is highly pricey.
Color chart of Aquamarine
Origins
Afghanistan, China, Kenya, Pakistan, Russia, Mozambique, the United States, Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Malawi, India, Zimbabwe, Australia, Burma, and Namibia are among the nations where aquamarine is discovered. One of the main sources of aquamarine is the state of Minas Gerais. Granite pegmatites are the main source of aquamarine. Moreover, veins of metamorphic rocks that were mineralized by hydrothermal action include aquamarine.