All About Aquamarine: Their Meaning, Properties, and Uses & Benefits

Aquamarine, a gemstone that evokes vision of the wide open ocean and the serenity of a clear sky, has captivated hearts and adorned royalty for centuries. Its name, derived from the Latin words "aqua" (water) and "marina" (of the sea), reflects its association with the calming and rejuvenating qualities of water.

In ancient lore, sailors carried Aquamarine talismans to ensure safe passage across stormy seas, believing that the gem could calm the waves and protect them from harm.

Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family, a group of minerals that includes Emerald and Morganite. Its captivating blue-to-blue-green hues are caused by the presence of iron within its crystal structure. The most prized Aquamarines exhibit a vivid, intensely saturated blue colour, reminiscent of the clearest tropical waters, their depths shimmering with an ethereal light.

Aquamarines have been used to create some of the most breathtaking jewellery in history, adorning the crowns and necklaces of emperors and empresses. This guide explores what you need to know about the Aquamarine gemstone, including its meaning, properties, and uses and benefits.

Physical Properties

Aquamarine is a relatively hard gemstone, ranking 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. This physical property makes it suitable for everyday wear, ensuring that your Aquamarine jewellery can be cherished for generations. Its crystal structure belongs to the hexagonal system, often forming in long, prismatic crystals. Aquamarine is typically transparent to translucent, with a vitreous lustre that gives it a glassy appearance, reminiscent of sunlight reflecting off the ocean's surface.

Symbolism

Aquamarine has held various meanings throughout history. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection to those at sea, calming the waves and ensuring safe passage. This association with water led to its connection with emotional healing and inner peace. Aquamarine is also a symbol of happiness and everlasting youth, believed to bring joy and vitality to its wearer. It is the traditional gem choice for the 19th wedding anniversary, representing the enduring love and harmony of a long-lasting relationship and marriage.

Uses and Benefits

Beyond its beauty and symbolism, Aquamarine is said to enhance communication, promote clarity of thought, and inspire courage and self-expression, allowing individuals to speak their truth with confidence and grace. Aquamarine is also believed to soothe the mind and emotions, reduce stress, promote a sense of tranquillity, and invite a sense of calm and serenity to its wearer. 

Aquamarine Birthstone Meaning

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. In ancient times, Aquamarine was believed to be a divine gift, offering protection and guidance to those who embarked on voyages across the vast oceans.

Where Aquamarine is Found

Aquamarine is found in various locations around the world, each with its unique characteristics and qualities. Brazil is the leading source of Aquamarine, producing some of the finest and largest crystals, their colours ranging from the palest sky blue to deep ocean hues.

Other significant sources include Madagascar, known for its vibrant blue Aquamarines, and Nigeria, where the gem is often found in association with other minerals, creating fascinating colour variations. Zambia, Mozambique, and Pakistan also contribute to the global Aquamarine supply, each region imparting subtle nuances to the gem's colour and character.

Aquamarine Cuts and Shapes

Aquamarine's versatility lends itself to a variety of cuts and shapes, each designed to maximise its beauty and brilliance. The emerald cut, with its rectangular shape and stepped facets, emphasises the gem's clarity and colour, creating a timeless and elegant look. This classic cut is particularly well-suited to showcasing the gem's mesmerising blue hues, allowing light to dance through its depths.

The brilliant cut, with its 58 facets, enhances the gem's sparkle and fire, creating a dazzling light display. This cut is ideal for those who desire maximum brilliance and a touch of glamour. Other popular cuts for Aquamarine include oval, pear, and cushion cuts, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal. Oval cuts are an elongated shape, while pear cuts create a graceful teardrop silhouette. Cushion cuts, with their rounded corners and soft edges, offer a romantic and vintage-inspired look.

A Guide to Acquiring Aquamarine: The 4Cs and Beyond

When selecting an Aquamarine, it's essential to consider the 4Cs: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight.

Colour

The most desirable Aquamarines possess a vivid, saturated blue hue, reminiscent of the clearest tropical waters. The intensity of the blue colour is a key factor in determining the gem's value, with deeper blues are oftentimes perceived to be more valuable.

Clarity

Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions, or internal flaws, within the gemstone. While some inclusions are natural and expected in coloured gemstones, excessive inclusions can detract from the gemstone’s beauty. The most desirable Aquamarines possess excellent clarity, with minimal inclusions visible to the naked eye.

Cut

The cut of an Aquamarine plays a crucial role in maximising its beauty and brilliance. A well-executed cut will enhance the gem's natural colour and sparkle, ensuring light is reflected optimally throughout the stone. The cutter's skill is essential in bringing out the best in an Aquamarine, as a poorly cut stone can appear dull, regardless of its inherent colour.

Carat Weight

Carat weight refers to the size of the Aquamarine. Larger Aquamarines are rarer and usually more valuable, especially when combined with exceptional colour and clarity. However, even smaller Aquamarines are prized and valuable if they possess exceptional colour and quality.

Caring for Your Aquamarine Jewellery

Aquamarine, with its captivating colours and enduring brilliance, deserves proper gemstone care to maintain its beauty for generations to come. To ensure your Aquamarine pieces remain as radiant as the day you first acquired them, here are some jewellery care tips:

• Cleaning: Clean your Aquamarine jewellery regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone's delicate surface and dull its lustre.
• Storage: When not being worn, store your Aquamarine jewellery in a clean dry place, separate from other pieces to prevent scratching. Your B.P. de Silva pouch, or a lined jewellery box is ideal for protecting your Aquamarine from unnecessary contact with other jewels.
• Protection: While Aquamarine is relatively durable, it can be susceptible to chipping or cracking upon hard impact. Avoid wearing your Aquamarine jewellery during strenuous activities or when there's a risk of impact. 
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Sudden temperature changes can cause Aquamarine to crack or become brittle. Avoid exposing your jewellery to extreme heat or cold, such as direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.
• Professional Cleaning: For a thorough cleaning and inspection, consider having your Aquamarine jewellery professionally cleaned by private jewellers in Singapore at least once a year. This will help maintain its brilliance and ensure its longevity.