Gemstone Buyer's Guide
Aquamarine Gemstones - Birthstone of March
Introduction to Aquamarine
The aquamarine gemstone is pale blue or turquoise green colored and is a versatile gemstone that works in any type of jewellery, whether it's a vintage style cocktail ring or a simple pair of oval aquamarine earrings. The gemstone suits many cuts and settings and suits all skin tones.
Aquamarine History
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl and it name comes from the Latin term aquamarina meaning 'water of the sea.' This type of beryl is found in hues of blue and turquoise and sourced from all over the world but mainly Brazil. The biggest ever aquamarine gemstone mined was discovered in the city of Marambaia Brazil in 1910 weighing over 110kg and is 48.5cm in length and 42cm width.
Aquamarine Facts
- Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March.
- One type of aquamarine colour was named after a Brazilian beauty queen Martha Rocha in 1954.
- Aquamarine can range from sky blue to sea green.
- Aquamarine is hard wearing but unlike its close relative emerald, it is not brittle, so it can be cut any way. Most often it is cut in rectangular (Mixed or trap cut) to make the most of its pale colour
- Aquamarine is one of the only gemstones found with almost perfect clarity.
Aquamarine Colour
Like Emerald, aquamarine is also from the mineral Beryl and value is determined by colour, clarity, cut and crystal. Crystal refers to the transparency of the gemstone while colour is measured by hue, saturation and tone. The blue tone in aquamarine is caused by the presence of corundum. The darker the hue then the more valuable the gem, the darkest colour is the most valuable and this is known as maxixe.
The clarity of aquamarine needs to be 'eye flawless' meaning no impurities can be seen with the naked eye. It's important that the cut shows sparkle from all areas of the gemstone.
Caring
When caring for aquamarine jewellery, clean using a small, soft brush and warm water. Avoid exposure to heat or light as this may cause the gemstone to lose its colour.
Sourcing
Aquamarine is sourced from many areas of the world including mines in Columbia, Zambia, Madagascar, Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya.