Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl, the same family as emerald, heliodor and morganite. Its name comes from the Latin words for "water" and "sea," reflecting its ocean-like colour. Aquamarine is prized for its clarity, brilliance, and calming hues, making it a popular choice for fine jewelry.

Chemical Composition: Beryllium Aluminum Silicate Be 3Al 2Si 6O 18

Crystal System: Hexagonal

Refractive Index: 1.56 to 1.60

Specific Gravity: 2.65 to 2.80

Double Refraction: 0.003 to 0.010

Mohs Hardness: 7.5

Lustre: Vitreous

Aquamarine is found in several countries, including Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Brazil is known for producing some of the finest aquamarines, especially those with deep blue colour which are given the Santa Maria trade name. Other regions, such as Mozambique and Afghanistan, also yield high-quality stones.

Yes, aquamarine can be used for an engagement ring; its watery blue colour and crystal clarity make it an elegant choice for an engagement ring. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, it is durable enough for everyday wear, but it should be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage.

The value of an aquamarine is determined by its colour, clarity, size, and cut. The most valuable stones have a deep blue hue with minimal green or grey tones. These top-quality gemstones are termed Santa Maria aquamarine. Perfect clarity with no inclusions also increases value, as does a well-executed cut that enhances brilliance. Larger aquamarines with strong colour saturation are especially sought after.

Most aquamarines undergo heat treatment to improve their blue colour by removing greenish or yellowish tones. This process is stable and widely accepted in the gemstone market. Some aquamarines may also be irradiated to enhance their colour, but this treatment is less common and not as widely accepted.

The rarest aquamarine is the Santa Maria aquamarine, originally found in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil. These stones have an intense, highly saturated blue colour that sets them apart from typical aquamarines. While similar deep blue stones have been found in Mozambique and other locations, true Santa Maria aquamarines from Brazil remain the most prized.

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. It has been associated with calmness, clarity, and the sea, making it a meaningful gem for those born under the sign of Pisces.

Aquamarine has long been connected to the ocean, symbolising tranquillity, protection, and courage. It was once believed to be a sailor's talisman, offering safe passage across the seas. Today, it is often linked to emotional clarity, communication, and inner peace.

Natural aquamarines may have small inclusions, while synthetic ones are grown in a lab and often appear flawless. A Chelsea colour filter (CCF) test can sometimes help identify a synthetic aquamarine, as natural aquamarines typically do not show a strong red or pink reaction. However, the best way to confirm authenticity is through professional gemological testing. Buying from a trusted source and requesting a gem certification ensures you get a genuine aquamarine.