Soft, sublime and blue, aquamarines have a distinct look and color that makes them stand apart amongst all other gemstones. The lovely color of this stone reflects clear blue skies and the serene seas. The most admired quality of aquamarines is that they flatter most skin tones and eye color, the main reason behind their popularity with the ladies.
Aquamarines get their name from the Latin words ‘aqua’ meaning sea and ‘mare’ meaning water. These charming stones have forever been associated with water. Greek soldiers in ancient times wore aquamarine amulets to protect themselves from the rage of sea gods. Some legends also say that aquamarines were first discovered in the treasure trunk of mermaids.
The alluring aquamarines possess many qualities. Where on one hand they cure insomnia, on the other hand they are considered effective for eye problems mainly short sightedness. It is said that Germans used aquamarine crystals as eyeglasses to prevent shortsightedness. Aquamarines are positive stones that bring in a feeling of cheerfulness. Besides, the soothing color of aquamarines is believed to bring about feelings of belief, harmony and camaraderie. Anybody sporting an aquamarine is said to benefit with happiness and wealth.
The most fascinating feature of aquamarine lies in its color. A lovely shade of clear sky blue that the stone reflects is ultimately beautiful. The value and worth of aquamarines is also determined by the color of these stones. The color in an aquamarine ranges from light blue to sky blue and teal. While a deep shade of blue is preferred and coveted in aquamarines, personal preferences may lead one to bluish green or greenish blue varieties of the stone. A wise aquamarine buy would be to go for a stone that has a good cut in a lighter shade that will sparkle like a diamond minus the price tag.
Aquamarines have fewer inclusions as compared to other gemstones. These stones have good clarity with very few inclusions. While buying an aquamarine it is a good idea to opt for a stone with more carat weight which will enhance both the color as well as clarity of the stone. Aquamarines like most other gemstones are heat treated. Heat treatment being permanent in nature preserves the beauty of these stones.
Aquamarines were first discovered in Madagascar. The ‘Santa Maria’ varieties of this stone found mainly in Brazil have created a storm in the jewelry world for their sheer beauty. Other sources of aquamarines are Tanzania, Kenya and Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Russia.
Whether aquamarine rings, aquamarine earrings or aquamarine pendants, these stones stand out in every form of jewelry. Teamed with diamonds or alone, aquamarines make a mark due to their innate charm.
