Aquamarine
Gem Index - Aquamarine
"I have a soft spot for aquamarines…The icy tones and enchanting blue hues remind me of crystal clear waters and tropical beaches. They’re so fresh and up-lifting and they look exquisite with diamonds."
MOIRA PATIENCE
What are Aquamarines?
Aquamarine is the green-blue to blue variety of the mineral beryl, which also includes emerald, morganite, and heliodor.
Unsurprisingly, the name Aquamarine comes from the Latin for seawater - it was said to calm waves and protect sailors at sea. Aquas were also believed to enhance the happiness of marriages and protect the wearer in battle.
Beryl
Mineral
7.5 - 8
Hardness
March
Birthstone
19th
Anniversary
Where are Aquamarines Found?
Aquamarine is found mainly in Brazil, but it is also found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Mozambique and is mined at high elevations in Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains.
Hardness
Aquas are quite tough with a hardness rating of 7.5 - 8, but they do need to be treated with care and protected against knocks and scratches.
Myths & Legends
In Ancient Rome it was believed that aquamarines washed ashore after spilling out of a mermaid's treasure chest. Blessed by the sea god Neptune, the Romans trusted the crystals to bring fortune and protection to those who found them.
Colour
Aquamarine is the green-blue to blue variety of Beryl, a family of minerals that also includes Emerald & Morganite. The presence of iron during its formation causes the stone to develop a distinctive hue.
Many people don't realise that Aquas come in a spectrum of blues ranging from icy pale shades to deep luscious tones (known as Santa Maria blue). The deepest blue being the rarest. Aquamarine is often exceptionally transparent with amazing lustre so it really sparkles.
Foot Long Crystals
Aquamarine is formed in beautiful six-sided prismatic crystals that lend themselves to more unusual elongated cuts. On rare occasions, the crystals can be more than a foot long - the largest gem-quality crystal ever found was 19 inches long!
Any questions about Aquamarines?
Moira's Aquamarine Jewellery Commissions
Emerald Cut Aquamarine & Diamond Ring
So much thought went into the making of this ring and I'm delighted to be able to finally share it with the world...
Aquamarine & Diamond Cocktail Ring
A stunning 4.41ct AAAA quality aquamarine in platinum with baguette diamonds. Aquamarines comes in varying degrees of quality...
Aquamarine Cocktail Ring
I often talk about serendipity and gemstones… It sounds daft, but it’s true! My client was looking for a showstopper Aquamarine...
Discover More...
Craftsmanship
