Aquamarine
Aquamarine captures the serene blue of a calm ocean in gemstone form. A member of the beryl family alongside emerald and morganite, aquamarine is prized for its clarity, durability, and tranquil colour.
Quick Facts
Colour
Ranges from very pale blue to medium-deep blue, sometimes with subtle green undertones.
Hardness
7.
Origins
Brazil is the world's largest producer, particularly Minas Gerais.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with outstanding transparency.
What is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl, coloured by trace amounts of iron. The name comes from the Latin "aqua marina," meaning "water of the sea." Unlike its beryl cousin emerald, which is almost always heavily included, aquamarine typically forms with exceptional clarity. Large, eye-clean aquamarines are relatively common, which makes impressive centre stones accessible. The finest aquamarines display a medium-deep blue without green overtones, though lighter blue-green stones are also beautiful.
Properties
Colour
Ranges from very pale blue to medium-deep blue, sometimes with subtle green undertones. Heat treatment is commonly used to reduce green tones, producing a purer blue. The most valued shade is a medium saturated blue.
Hardness
7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Durable and well-suited for engagement rings and all everyday jewellery.
Origins
Brazil is the world's largest producer, particularly Minas Gerais. Other significant sources include Pakistan (Kashmir region), Madagascar, Nigeria, and Mozambique. The Pakistani stones are particularly fine.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with outstanding transparency. Aquamarine's clarity is one of its greatest assets — large, clean stones are more available than in almost any other coloured gemstone.
Varieties
Santa Maria aquamarine from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil is considered the finest, with a deep, saturated blue. Espirito Santo aquamarine, also from Brazil, tends to be lighter. Maxixe aquamarine is a deep blue variety whose colour fades with light exposure — it is not considered stable. Cat's-eye aquamarine, while rare, displays chatoyancy. Some aquamarines show a very subtle colour change between blue and slightly more green tones depending on lighting.
History
Ancient sailors carried aquamarine as a talisman for protection at sea, believing it was the treasure of mermaids. Roman fishermen called it "water of the sea" and believed it could calm waves. In medieval Europe, aquamarine was thought to reawaken love between married couples. The Dom Pedro, the world's largest cut aquamarine at 10,363 carats, is an obelisk-shaped gem housed in the Smithsonian Institution. Queen Elizabeth II's Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara is one of the most famous aquamarine jewels.
Meaning & Symbolism
Aquamarine symbolises courage, serenity, clear communication, and eternal youth. Associated with the throat chakra, it is believed to help the wearer express themselves honestly and calmly. As a stone connected to water and the sea, aquamarine is thought to have soothing, cleansing energy that promotes emotional healing and reduces stress.
How to Care for Aquamarine
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Generally safe for ultrasonic cleaning. Avoid sudden temperature changes and prolonged exposure to intense heat, which can alter the colour. Durable enough for everyday rings with normal care. Store separately from harder gemstones.
Aquamarine Jewellery Ideas
Aquamarine's exceptional clarity makes it ideal for large statement rings and pendants where the depth of the stone is visible. An emerald-cut aquamarine solitaire is a sophisticated alternative engagement ring. Aquamarine pairs beautifully with white gold, platinum, and silver. Drop earrings in aquamarine add an elegant touch of colour. Aquamarine and diamond combinations create a fresh, icy aesthetic that works from day to evening.