Natural Aquamarines Overview
Aquamarine, is a member of the beryl family. The word aquamarine is derived from the Latin word for sea-water because the colors can range from light green-blue to blue. Although aquamarine can be easily confused with blue topaz, it is much more scarce and valuable. Aquamarine is tough enough to used as a ring or pendant center stone.
Aquamarine prices are primarily a function of their color and subtle differences in hue and tone will markedly affect the value of the material. Dark aquamarines are considered to be the most valuable. It is commonly heated to decrease the green and enhance the blue. The treatment is generally accepted in the trade and is permanent.
Physical Properties
| Color |
Greenish Blue to Blue |
| Refractive Index |
1.57-1.59 |
| Chemistry |
Beryllium Aluminum Silicate |
| Hardness |
7.5 |
| Density |
2.62-2.71 |
| Crystal Group |
Hexagonal |
| Ocurrence |
Africa, Asia, India, South America, United States |
Legend and Lore
Aquamarine translates in Latin to “sea water” and the name is appropriate to the color of this gemstone. Aquamarine has become symbolic of safety at sea, and according to legend is a treasure of the mermaids.
Like all blue stones it has the effect of clearing away the cobwebs in the mind. Blue stones are associated with the throat, like the turquoise. New Age thinkers believe that we are all now making a shift of identify and aquamarine will make this transitional period easier for us.
Browse Aquamarines
The pictures above only represents the general appearance of the Aquamarine. Please note that the real Aquamarines in our stock will be of varied shapes, color and sizes.
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