Chemical Formula: Be3Al2Si6O18

Chemical Name: Beryllium Aluminium Silicate

Mineral Class: Cyclosilicate

Mineral Notes: Beryl is not particularly well known, although its coloured forms are instantly recognised as the gem stones Emerald and Aquamarine. The latter is popular but does not command nearly as high a price as its green relative. Uncut aquamarines are common but relatively expensive, as would be expected of crystalline gemstone specimens.  

Description: An unusual cluster of fused irregular Beryl crystals. There is no apparent point of attachment to matrix, making this a floater specimen. The colour is a pale sky-blue and there is considerable transparency. The interior is gemmy which means this specimen could be cut and faceted into a very nice gem. 

Location: Ankazobe Dept, Central Merina Region, Antananarivo, Madagascar.