Aquamarine Jewelry
The sea-blue variety of the beryl family and the birthstone of March
Unearthed Gemstones Aquamarine Jewelry
Click the photos for a closer look of the jewelry pieces
Hardness
7.5 - 8 (Very Durable): Resistant to scratches.
Toughness
Good (Generally resistant to chipping under normal wear)
Mineral Family
Beryl
Transparency
Transparent to Translucent
Crystal System
Hexagonal
Lustre
Vitreous
What Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is the sea-blue variety of beryl, the same mineral family as emerald. Its name comes from the Latin for seawater, and the colour, caused by traces of iron, runs from pale sky blue to a rich blue-green. Roman sailors carried it for safe voyages, and today it is the birthstone for March. Most fine aquamarine comes from Brazil, with lovely material also mined in Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar and Pakistan. It often grows in large, clean crystals, so big, eye-clean stones are more affordable than you might expect.
Is Aquamarine Durable Enough for Everyday Jewelry?
With a hardness of 7.5 to 8, aquamarine is a genuinely practical gem for rings, bracelets and everyday wear. It is usually faceted to make the most of its clarity.
Is Aquamarine Heat Treated?
Most stones on the market are gently heated to soften any greenish tint into a purer blue. That is a stable, standard trade practice and nothing to worry about.
How to Care for Aquamarine Jewelry
Warm, soapy water keeps it sparkling, and it is best kept away from prolonged heat.
How to Tell If Aquamarine Is Real
Blue glass and synthetic spinel are common imitations, so buy from a seller who guarantees natural stones, as we do.
Gemstones Similar to Aquamarine
Emerald and morganite are also beryls, while blue topaz is its most common look-alike.
