Aquamarine
The name “aquamarine” comes from two Latin words: aqua, meaning “water,” and marina, meaning “of the sea.” This ocean-inspired gemstone is the birthstone for March and celebrates a 19th wedding anniversary. It was stated that the gemstone was meant to bring calmness at sea and keep sailors safe.
About
For the past two centuries, Minas Gerais, a Brazilian state, has been the most prominent source of Aquamarine. Aquamarine comes from primary and secondary pegmatite deposits. These deposits are found in the eastern portion of Minas Gerais. The largest aquamarine found to date is a 19-inch crystal.
Aquamarine is also found high in the Karakorum foothills of Pakistan. Miners must climb elevations of at least 9,800 and up to 13,000 feet and work the sides of cliffs to retrieve this gemstone. The miners in the Karakorum foothills describe Aquamarine as “water clear” due to its light tones and range from greenish blue to blue-green.
Similar to the Emerald gemstone, Aquamarine falls under the mineral beryl depending on the level of saturation in the color. Beryl is the main property of stone, and the differentiating colors are what make the stones unique.
Aquamarine is durable for everyday wear and ranks 7.5-8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. When caring for the gem, use warm water, mild dish soap, and a toothbrush to clean the birthstone.
One of the more famous Aquamarine pieces belonged to Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. In 1936 the Brazilian government gifted the First Lady a dark blue aquamarine that weighed 1,298 carats. This gemstone is displayed in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York
Born in the month of March or appreciate the light-blue colored stone? Aquamarine is reminiscent of the sea and is believed to be a powerfully soothing influence. Explore our powerful and stunning Aquamarine Collection.
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