ENCYCLOPEDIA
AQUAMARINE FULL GUIDE
CHARACTERISTICS OF AQUAMARINE
Etymology: From the Latin aqua marina, meaning "water of the sea,"
reflecting its stunning blue to greenish-blue hues.
Family: Beryl
Chemical Composition: Aluminum silicate with beryllium and trace amounts of iron, which contribute to its color.
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale
Density: 2.68 – 2.74 g/cm³
Optical Properties: Uniaxial birefringent
Refractive Index: 1.577 – 1.583
Birefringence: 0.004 – 0.008
Crystal System: Hexagonal
Color: Typically ranges from pale blue to deep blue;
the presence of iron gives aquamarine its distinctive hues.
Sources: Major sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, Zambia, and Afghanistan.
THE ORIGIN OF AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine is primarily sourced from several key locations around the world:
Brazil: One of the most significant producers, particularly known for its high-quality stones with vibrant blue colors.
Madagascar: Another important source, offering a variety of shades, often lighter and more pastel.
Nigeria: Known for both lighter and darker hues, Nigerian aquamarine has gained recognition for its clarity and size.
Afghanistan: Known for fine aquamarine, particularly from the Nuristan region, where stones can exhibit deep blue colors.
Aquamarine is formed in pegmatitic rocks and can occur in large crystals, making it a favorite among gem enthusiasts and jewelers. Its name, meaning "water of the sea," reflects its ocean-like colors, further enhancing its allure.
CARAT
The carat of aquamarine, like all gemstones, refers to the weight of the stone rather than its size. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams (0.2 grams).
When it comes to aquamarine:
- Weight vs. Size: While a larger carat weight often translates to a bigger stone, the actual size can vary based on the gem's cut and shape. For example, a well-cut aquamarine can appear larger than a similarly weighted stone that is poorly cut.
- Market Value: The price of aquamarine generally increases with carat weight, but factors such as color, clarity, and overall quality also play a significant role in determining value. Larger aquamarines, especially those with vivid colors and high clarity, can be quite valuable.
- Common Sizes: Aquamarines are available in various carat weights, from small accent stones to larger statement pieces. It's common to find aquamarine rings and pendants that feature stones ranging from 1 carat to several carats.
Understanding carat weight is important when considering aquamarine jewelry, as it helps convey the stone's value and visual impact.
THE COLOR OF AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine is renowned for its stunning color, which is one of the gem's most defining attributes. It typically ranges from pale blue to deep blue, with some variations displaying greenish-blue hues. The color is influenced by the presence of iron in its chemical composition, which contributes to its vibrant tones.X
HUE
The primary hue of aquamarine is blue, but it can also exhibit greenish-blue shades. The presence of iron is key to the depth and richness of the hue, with deeper colors generally being more prized.
SATURATION
Saturation refers to the intensity of the color. Aquamarine is most sought after when it has a medium to high saturation level, meaning the color is vivid and bright without being overly dark or muted. Higher saturation often correlates with a more valuable stone.
TONE
Tone indicates the lightness or darkness of the color. Aquamarine typically has a range of tones, from very light (almost pastel) to very dark. The ideal tone for aquamarine is medium, striking a balance that enhances its vibrancy without losing clarity.
THE CLARITY OF AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine is generally valued for its clarity, which is an important factor in determining the overall quality and appeal of the gemstone. Here’s a detailed overview of aquamarine clarity:
Transparency: High-quality aquamarines are typically transparent, allowing light to pass through without obstruction. This transparency enhances the stone’s color and brilliance.
Inclusions: Aquamarine may contain inclusions, but these should be minimal for the stone to be considered high quality. Common inclusions in aquamarine include tiny gas bubbles or silk-like fibers, but they should not significantly affect the overall appearance.
Grading Scale: The clarity of aquamarine is often assessed using a grading scale similar to that of diamonds. The scale ranges from "Included" (I), which contains noticeable inclusions visible to the naked eye, to "Flawless" (F), which shows no inclusions even under magnification. Most high-quality aquamarines fall within the "Very Slightly Included" (VS) to "Internally Flawless" (IF) categories.
Impact on Value: Clarity plays a significant role in the gemstone's value. Aquamarines with high clarity and minimal inclusions are typically more sought after and command higher prices.
CUTS & SHAPES
Aquamarine is commonly cut into various shapes, with the following being the most popular:
Emerald Cut: A rectangular shape with step cuts, which showcases the stone's clarity and color.
Round Cut: A classic shape that maximizes brilliance and sparkle.
Oval Cut: An elongated shape that enhances size appearance while maintaining beauty.
Pear Cut: A teardrop shape, perfect for pendants and earrings.
EMERALD AQUAMARINE
ROUND AQUAMARINE
OVAL AQUAMARINE
PEAR AQUAMARINE
CALENDAR
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. It is often associated with qualities such as tranquility, calmness, and clarity, reflecting its beautiful blue color reminiscent of the sea. Additionally, aquamarine is believed to bring good fortune and promote peace, making it a popular choice for those born in March.
TREATMENTS
Heat Treatment: This is the most common method used to improve the color of aquamarine. Heat treatment can intensify the blue hue, making it more vibrant. Most aquamarines on the market have undergone this process, and it is generally accepted in the industry.
Irradiation: Although less common, some aquamarines may be treated with radiation to enhance their color. This process is typically followed by heat treatment to stabilize the color.
Coating: In some cases, a thin layer of a material may be applied to enhance color or improve clarity. However, this treatment is less prevalent and can affect the durability of the gemstone.
Clarity Enhancement: While not as common in aquamarine as in some other gemstones, certain treatments may be used to improve clarity by filling surface-reaching inclusions. This is usually disclosed when applicable.