Chemical Make-up
Aquamarine, a striking blue gemstone, belongs to the beryl family, which also includes emerald and several lesser-known types. Chemically, it’s a beryllium aluminum silicate mineral, boasting a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8.
Typically, Aquamarine crystals exhibit a hexagonal shape, with either flat tops or prism-like points. Raw crystals can grow quite large. However, due to its crystal structure, Aquamarine tends to be brittle. March-born individuals celebrate Aquamarine as their birthstone. Additionally, the stone’s hardness lends durability to Aquamarine jewelry, making it suitable for regular wear.
Formation
Like most minerals, Aquamarine forms deep within the Earth’s crust. Unlike some minerals, it can form in both igneous and metamorphic rocks. Beryl, the source of beryllium, is quite rare as it necessitates a substantial presence of this rare element.
Why is Aquamarine Blue?
Aquamarine’s signature blue color ranges from the lightest pastel to a slightly greenish-blue and even darker shades. Being inherently blue by definition, Aquamarine doesn’t occur in other colors. Gemologists attribute its blue hue to iron present in the crystal, with variations in shade depending on how the iron is integrated.
Aquamarine Origin
Though named after the sea’s color (Aquamarine means water blue), the gem was first discovered far from the ocean in Siberia in 1723. By the late 18th century, extensive deposits were mined and transported to Western Europe.
Natural Aquamarine Deposits
Currently, significant deposits of Aquamarine are found in Pakistan (in mountainous regions) and Brazil. Other locations include the Ural Mountains in Russia, China, the US states of California and Colorado, Myanmar, Ukraine, and African countries. Most mining methods involve surface picking or strip mining due to the shallow depth of the deposits.
Historically, these light blue gems were often discovered on the ground or in rivers, especially in Russia. In Pakistan, miners scale cliffs, while in Brazil, strip mining is commonly employed.
Aquamarine Valuation
Unlike emeralds, Aquamarine is relatively affordable, primarily due to its abundance and the prevalence of large crystals. The GIA notes that Aquamarine often lacks the inclusions found in emeralds, making eye-clean gems easy to find.
As a result, large carat-weight Aquamarine gems don’t command exorbitant premiums; their prices increase linearly with size, assuming similar quality factors. This affordability makes stunning Aquamarine jewelry within reach for many.
Clarity
One notable aspect of Aquamarine is its high clarity rating from the outset. The GIA classifies it as a “type I” gemstone, meaning many specimens are quite clean when mined. However, rough pieces with inclusions exist and are often utilized in artistic carvings or jewelry.
Cut
Cutting rough Aquamarine offers an opportunity to create exquisite pieces. Faceted gems are the most familiar choice for consumers and are typically produced from nearly transparent raw Aquamarine.
Lower-quality material is also fashioned into cabochons (polished domed pieces) or carvings. Some cuts are pricier due to technical challenges or higher material waste.
Color
Color significantly influences Aquamarine’s value. While most mined Aquamarine has a slight green tinge, more valuable specimens are pure blue. Due to its light color, larger stones (over two carats) are more desirable to showcase the pure blue hue.
For our perfect Aquamarine white gold rings, we select heat-treated gemstones, as this natural and permanent method enhances color and clarity. Whether you’re seeking an Aquamarine wedding ring or casual jewelry, we’re here to assist you in finding the ideal piece.
Reach out to us via phone at 206-623-5339 or email at service@artfulbracelets.com. Our Live Chat is accessible during business hours, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM to 6 PM ET.
