Aquamarine - March's birthstone
If you or someone you know has a birthday in March, then aquamarine could be your perfect gemstone gift. It’s also the celebration stone for the 19th wedding anniversary, as many believe this gorgeous gem may enhance the happiness of marriage.
What colour is aquamarine?
Aquamarine is the green-blue to blue variety of the mineral beryl, the same mineral as emerald.
This stunning gem gets its colour from trace amounts of ferrous iron, and although the range of shades can vary from pastel pales of blueish green through to deep blue, it’s rare that aquamarines will be darker than a blue topaz.
When it comes to the cost of aquamarine, it’s mainly the rich blue gems that command a higher price tag as they are less abundant than paler stones. For example, a smaller aquamarine in a vivid blue will fetch more than a similar sized gem in a fainter shade.
Are aquamarine gems enhanced?
Most aquamarines are naturally tinted green, caused by ferric iron, but this greenish hue can be removed by heating to a temperature of 375° C, turning the colouring trace element to ferrous iron, this leaves a pure blue colour. This process is very common and therefore this treatment doesn’t need to be disclosed.
Where is aquamarine found?
Brazil is the world's key source of gem quality aquamarine, but the stone can also be found in many other countries across the world, including Afghanistan, Australia, China, India, Madagascar, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, USA, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
Famous aquamarines
Beryl crystals weighing many tonnes have been found in pegmatites – which are very course-grained igneous rocks. In fact, one such crystal found in Brazil measured 48 centimetres long and 40 centimetres across, weighing in at more than 110 kilograms.
The famed Martha Rocha aquamarine, also found in Brazil, weighed almost 60 kilograms and produced more than 300,000 carats of gem-quality stones. An even larger crystal found in 1910 weighed more than 100 kilograms but only returned 200,000 carats of gem-quality stones.
The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, holds one of the largest cut aquamarines, the Dom Pedro. This stone is a stunning 10,363 carat obelisk, sculpted from a Brazilian pegmatite in the late 1980s.
Why choose aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a durable gemstone, making it ideal for everyday wear. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is 7.5 to 8, which is relatively high compared to other gemstones. This means that it is more resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Aquamarine is also a popular choice for jewellery, and can be found in a variety of settings, such as earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and rings. Its versatility and timeless beauty make it a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings, as well as for other special occasion jewellery.
With its alluring colour, aquamarine jewellery can really make a statement. Representing one of nature’s most beautiful and calming hues, this dazzling stone radiates tranquillity, making it truly unique among other precious gems.
The perfect choice for luxury jewellery buyers looking to make a statement, aquamarine offers you the chance to create something truly special, no matter what type of piece you’re buying.
Whether you're looking for an eye-catching ring or bold bracelet, aquamarine can be incorporated in many unique pieces to add extra beauty and sophistication.
The Perth Mint jewellery boutique
You can find The Perth Mint’s jewellery store inside our landmark heritage-listed building, established by Britain’s Royal Mint in 1899 at our iconic East Perth site in Hay Street.
Our elegant jewellery boutique is home to some of the world’s most exclusive gemstone jewellery. Many of our high-end, hand-selected jewellery pieces are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, as well as the peace of mind that comes with choosing to make a purchase from a Government of Western Australia-owned enterprise with a long-standing reputation for quality and integrity.
Our experts will be happy to assist you to try on beautiful aquamarine jewellery of your choice. See how it looks against your skin, ensuring your masterpiece reflects your true individuality.
Come and explore today or book an appointment now.
References:
https://www.gia.edu/aquamarine
https://www.gemsociety.org/article/aquamarine-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/
https://geology.com/gemstones/aquamarine/
https://www.si.edu/newsdesk/releases/smithsonian-display-world-s-largest-cut-aquamarine-dom-pedro
