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Aquamarine

Name and characteristics of the Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a gemstone, which belongs to the beryl family. It takes its name from the Latin "Aqua marina", for its color, similar to sea water. Its color varies from a very transparent light blue to a deeper blue or light green. Most aquamarines used in jewelry are pure or near-pure, that is, with very few inclusions within the stone.

Different varieties of Aquamarine

The blue color of aquamarine can vary, but always remains in the range of light blues, between transparent and translucent. It is one of the world's most prized gemstones for its color and water-like reflections, and is usually faceted to enhance this aspect. The lapidary must take into account the elongated structure of beryl crystals to prevent them from splitting, which is why most aquamarines and emeralds, which are part of the same family, are cut as rectangles with cut sides.

Aquamarine care

More fragile than precious stones, gemstones are nevertheless very appreciated. If they do not require extra care, be careful if you wear them often.

Placed between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine remains a fairly solid stone. However, take care of it to keep its luster and shine. From time to time, you can dip your aquamarine in a container of warm (non-calcareous) soapy water and rub it gently with a soft cloth. Then you can polish it with a cloth.

Furthermore, we recommend that you have your jewelry checked by an expert gemologist from time to time to ensure that the stone and its setting are in good condition, in order to prevent any inconvenience.

Stories and beliefs about Aquamarine

In the Middle Ages, this sublime blue stone ensured a happy marriage and promised the fidelity of the spouses. It was also loaded with beliefs and protected sailors during their sea trips. According to beliefs, in medicine, this blue stone is used to protect the eyes of its owner.

Aquamarine deposits throughout the world

Before the discovery of the current deposits in Africa (Zambia, Mozambique, Madagascar and Nigeria), aquamarine came mainly from Brazil (first discovery in 1551) but also in large part from Russia and Pakistan. Nowadays, Brazil and African countries remain the most important producers.

Famous Aquamarines

The most legendary aquamarine is called Dom Pedro. It is the largest cut aquamarine known today. Mined in Brazil in the 1980s, the huge 35 cm high, 2 kg crystal was cut by a famous lapidary into the shape of a diamond-shaped obelisk to maximize the reflection of light. The latter then named this piece Dom Pedro, in tribute to the Brazilian emperors.

Among the famous aquamarine jewelry, we note that in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II was given a set of diamonds and aquamarines by Brazil after her coronation.

Much more recently, the aquamarine has resurfaced in the royal family, with Lady Diana's aquamarine solitaire, worn by Meghan Markle at her wedding reception with Prince Harry.

Choose your Aquamarine jewel

Besides being the most coveted gemstone, aquamarine is perfect for an engagement ring or wedding band, as it represents a happy and faithful marriage. Come see our selection of wedding rings and other aquamarine jewelry.

Aquamarine is also a symbol of 23 years of marriage, so an aquamarine jewel would be an ideal gift for the Beryl Wedding.