Are you and your significant other getting over a lovers’ quarrel? We feel you. It happens to all of us. If so, we have just the thing to help you patch things up. Why not give her the gift of aquamarine? It’s perfect for rekindling love, and it’s even better if your partner has a March birthday. Learn more about this beautiful, serene stone!
What is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a blue-green gem that’s part of the beryl mineral family, just like emeralds. It’s available in a range of colors, from very light (almost colorless) to moderately dark. Aquamarine crystals often grow into large, six-sided prisms, some of which eventually measure more than a foot in length! Depending on the viewing angle, a single crystal can have a near colorless appearance in one direction and a deeper blue hue in another direction.
Given aquamarine’s soothing color and clarity, this stone is often associated with water. In fact, it’s so clear that it’s known to represent a pure soul. While lighter shades tend to be more common, larger gems offer more intense color, making them more valuable. Some stones also undergo heat treatments to enhance their coveted blue hue.
If you’re shopping for aquamarine jewelry, this gemstone works well as a large statement piece or as a smaller jewel with other complementary gems. Aquamarine is graded similarly to diamonds, so you’ll want to pay attention to the cut and color of your piece.
*Pro Tip: This stone looks amazing with any skin tone!
History of Aquamarine
The name “aquamarine” is derived from two Latin words that mean “water” and “of the sea.” As a result, the stone has had a long nautical history. People believed it calmed waves and protected sailors as well as Roman fishermen during their sea travels. St. Thomas, one of the Twelve Apostles who reportedly got around by boat, was even associated with aquamarine. Beryl, the key mineral in aquamarine’s composition, has additional qualities. Those who wear it are said to be amiable, quick-witted and unconquerable/protected during battle.
Aquamarine gems actually date back to ancient times. For example, residents of ancient Greece etched designs into the stones and used them for sealing letters. Aquamarine beads were found with Egyptian mummies. And according to legend, the high priest of the Second Temple of Jerusalem wore versions of the gems that featured the 12 tribes of Israel.
So, where can aquamarine be found? For approximately the past 200 years, Brazil (particularly the eastern part of Minas Gerais), has been a primary supplier of the stone. This area features plenty of rocky hills, shrubs and rivers. Aquamarine crystals are also located 10,000-13,000 feet above ground in Pakistan’s portion of the Karakoram mountain range. Other spots include Nigeria, Madagascar, Kenya, China, Russia and the U.S., particularly Colorado and California.
Aquamarine Fun Facts
Aquamarine is the official stone
for celebrating a 19th wedding anniversary!
This gem ranges between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale – a scale that ranks the durability of diamonds,
gemstones and other minerals. That means your aquamarine jewelry is durable
enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
Aquamarine is the state
gem of Colorado!
The longest gem-quality
aquamarine crystal on record measures 19 inches.
In the 1930s, the Brazilian
government gave President Franklin D. Roosevelt a rectangular-shaped, dark blue
aquamarine as a gift for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. It weighed nearly 1,300
carats and was reportedly the largest cut aquamarine at the time. It’s now
stored at the Franklin D.
Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in New York.
Aquamarines are popular with
British royalty. The precious gem has been featured in Princess Diana and Queen
Elizabeth II’s jewelry collections, from rings and bracelets to the queen’s
large tiara.
The Dom Pedro Aquamarine,
which weighs more than 10,000 carats (equivalent to roughly 4.6 pounds), is
considered the world’s largest cut aquamarine. The unique stone was created by
German lapidary Bernd Munsteiner, who transformed the gem industry
with the fantasy cutting technique. This piece is currently housed at the
Smithsonian Institution.
Shop Our Favorite Aquamarine Jewelry
Shania Aquamarine & Diamond Promise Ring
Jayde Double Halo Diamond & Aquamarine Engagement Ring
Lucia Aquamarine Solitaire Engagement Ring
Have a question? We can help!
Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of dazzling aquamarine jewelry, from rings to necklaces.
We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our website or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.
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