Aquamarine
About
Aquamarine is a blue to greenish-blue variety of the mineral beryl. Its colour is due to trace amounts of iron. Aquamarine has long been associated with water and was believed to protect sailors on their voyages. Valued for its clarity and colour, aquamarine is mined in Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, and Nigeria.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is traditionally given for the 19th anniversary, symbolising serenity, courage, and clear communication.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of aquamarine is serenity and self-expression. Its calming energy is believed to soothe emotions, enhance communication, and promote spiritual awareness. Often associated with the throat chakra, aquamarine encourages honest expression and reduces fear, making it a popular choice for those seeking balance and clarity.
Facts
Durable and Elegant: With a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, aquamarine is suitable for everyday wear and is often used in fine jewellery.
Historical Use: Ancient Romans believed aquamarine could protect sailors and ensure safe travel across seas.
Colour Range: Aquamarine’s hues range from pale blue to deep greenish-blue, with the finest specimens showing vivid saturation.
Geographical Sources: Brazil is the leading producer of aquamarine, with significant deposits also found in Pakistan and Madagascar.
Science
Mineral: Beryl
Crystal System: Hexagonal
Chemistry: Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈
Colour: Blue to greenish-blue
Refractive Index: 1.577 to 1.583
Birefringence: 0.005 to 0.009
Specific Gravity: 2.68 to 2.74
Mohs Hardness: 7.5 to 8
TreatmentsAquamarine is often heat-treated to enhance its blue colour by removing greenish tones. This treatment is stable and widely accepted in the market.
SyntheticsSynthetic aquamarine is uncommon but can be produced in laboratories using the hydrothermal process. Most synthetic aquamarine is created for industrial purposes rather than for jewellery.
ImitationsGlass, blue topaz and synthetic spinel are often used to imitate aquamarine. These materials mimic its colour but lack its hardness and optical properties.
similar materialsBlue Topaz: Often mistaken for aquamarine but typically has a brighter blue colour and is less expensive.
Kyanite: A blue mineral that resembles aquamarine but is softer and exhibits a fibrous structure.
Blue Zircon: Shares a similar blue hue but is denser and more refractive than aquamarine.