Aquamarine on Quartz Matrix — Shigar Valley
About This Specimen
This thumbnail specimen presents several translucent, pale blue aquamarine crystals emerging from a contrasting quartz matrix from Pakistan's Shigar Valley. A prominent upright prism anchors the composition, accompanied by smaller crystals at different angles; the surfaces and terminations display natural irregularity, contacts, edge wear, and visible chipping.
Specimen Details
- Mineral / Specimen Type: Aquamarine on quartz matrix
- Locality: Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
- Form & Structure: Multiple prismatic aquamarine crystals on quartz matrix, including one prominent upright crystal
- Color: Translucent pale sky-blue to blue-green aquamarine against milky white, light gray, and tan quartz matrix
- Rarity: Uncommon as a small aquamarine-on-quartz matrix specimen; aquamarine as a mineral variety is not rare
- Mohs Hardness: 7.5–8
- Luster: Vitreous, with some crystal surfaces subdued by texture and contacts
- Chemical Formula: Be3Al2Si6O18
- Specimen Size: Thumbnail
- Dimensions: 2.5 × 1.8 × 2.4 cm
- Specimen Weight: 13.8 g (mineral only)
- Total / Display Weight: 63.6 g
About Aquamarine
Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of beryl, a hexagonal beryllium aluminum silicate with the formula Be3Al2Si6O18. It commonly forms prismatic crystals, has a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, and is valued by collectors for its cool coloration, vitreous luster, and association with contrasting matrix minerals such as quartz.
Traditional & Metaphysical Associations
In crystal traditions, aquamarine is associated with calm reflection, clear communication, courage, and the symbolism of water. It may be kept for meditation, intention-setting, or as a peaceful blue display accent. Metaphysical properties are based on traditional beliefs and are provided for cultural and informational purposes; they are not scientifically established or intended as medical advice.
Why This Specimen?
The arrangement offers good visual depth for its thumbnail size, with several blue prisms standing out clearly against the pale, rugged quartz matrix. Its mounted presentation and prominent upright crystal make it an appealing small-format display piece despite the naturally irregular and chipped crystal edges.
Exact specimen pictured. You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photographs.