What is aquamarine?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Aquamarine is a transparent blue to blue-green variety of beryl, the same mineral family as emerald, and its name comes from the Latin words for water and sea. The colour ranges from a very pale icy blue through to a deeper teal-blue, with the most prized stones showing a clean, rich blue. It grows in large six-sided crystals that can yield big, clear faceted gems, and is the birthstone for March. Brazil produces the finest material, including the famous deep-blue Santa Maria aquamarines.
Frequently asked questions
- Is aquamarine a birthstone for March or April?
- March. Aquamarine is one of March's birthstones, alongside bloodstone. It was previously listed as an April stone in some older traditions, but the modern birthstone lists assign it firmly to March.
- How do I choose a good aquamarine?
- Look for clean, even colour with good transparency and as few inclusions as possible. The most valuable stones are a deeper, saturated blue without greenish tones. Larger aquamarines are more common than equivalent sizes in most other gems, so you can get a generous stone without paying a premium.
- Can aquamarine be worn every day?
- Yes, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday rings and pendants, rating 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Keep it away from harsh chemicals and prolonged direct sunlight, which can gradually fade the colour in some stones.
Designing a ring
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