AQUAMARINE
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Aquamarine is the blue variety of the mineral beryl. Most natural aquamarine is a pale bluish green, which was the preferred color before 1900. Known for its clarity, this gemstone's value derives from its vividly transparent hues. Its famed watery color is caused by the trace element iron - the more intense the blue, the more a stone is worth.
Today it is routinely heat treated to remove the green component, making it a stable and permanent blue color. Simply heating aquamarine to 800 degrees Fahrenheit will remove any trace of green. It is one of the most popular of all gemstones because it is not only complimentary to most skin types but also durable and affordable! The finest examples of aquamarine are found in Brazil, Nigeria, Zambia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Afghanistan and Pakistan. A new find of a rare variety of aquamarine, with a dark, highly saturated intensity, has been discovered in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil. Similar aquas have also been found in a few gem mines in Africa, especially Mozambique. |
THE HISTORY
Known as the traveler's stone, aquamarine's name derives from Latin to mean "from the sea", and was often used as a good luck charm for sailors. Furthering its deep connection to water, aquamarine is also the birthstone for the month of March which hails the water zodiac sign Pisces.
Aquamarine is thought to be a stone of courage. It can be used to alleviate fears and phobias. Aquas can help keep you on track to meet your goals and guarantee your success. It releases anxiety and can combat depression. It is also believed that the jewel has soothing properties, making it the traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolic of a calm peaceful marriage.
Aquamarine is thought to be a stone of courage. It can be used to alleviate fears and phobias. Aquas can help keep you on track to meet your goals and guarantee your success. It releases anxiety and can combat depression. It is also believed that the jewel has soothing properties, making it the traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolic of a calm peaceful marriage.
CARING FOR AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine jewelry can be cleaned with a soft brush in warm soapy water or wiped clean with a cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals when wearing this stone or any kind of jewelry. When stored, it should be wrapped to prevent it from scratching softer stones or it being scratched by harder stones like diamonds and sapphires.
