aquamarine jewellery guide
What are Aquamarines?
Aquamarines, the alluring gemstones of the beryl family, are renowned for their captivating hues that mirror the tranquility of the sea. With colours ranging from serene sky blue to enchanting bluish-green, these precious stones have been cherished for their timeless beauty throughout history. Boasting a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarines exhibit remarkable durability, making them not only exquisite for jewellery but also suitable for daily wear. Their enchanting charm and symbolic association with courage and protection make aquamarines a favourite choice for those seeking elegance and serenity in a single gemstone.
Aquamarine Jewellery Inspiration
Aquamarine Lore and Meaning
Aquamarines have a rich history of lore and meaning that dates back centuries. Here are some of the notable aspects of their significance:
- Symbol of Serenity: Aquamarines have long been associated with tranquility and serenity. In ancient times, people believed that wearing aquamarine jewellery could calm the waves and ensure a safe and prosperous journey at sea. The gem's soothing blue colour has also been linked to promoting a sense of peace and inner harmony.
- Symbol of Youth and Eternal Happiness: In folklore, it was believed that aquamarines held the power to keep the wearer youthful and happy. This led to the idea that the gemstone could strengthen relationships and foster everlasting love.
- Healing Properties: In alternative healing practices, aquamarines have been associated with various physical and emotional benefits. It is believed that they can help alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and promote overall well-being.
- Talisman for Travelers: Traditionally, aquamarines were thought to be a powerful talisman for travelers, providing protection during their journeys and ensuring a safe return home.
In conclusion, aquamarines have a captivating allure that extends beyond their physical beauty. Throughout history, they have been associated with themes of tranquility, courage, protection, and emotional healing, making them not just a stunning gemstone but also a meaningful symbol in various cultures and belief systems.
Aquamarine Jewellery Colour Guide
WHAT ARE THE BEST SHADES OF AQUAMARINE FOR JEWELLERY?
Aquamarines come in a delightful array of colours, much like the mesmerising hues of the sea and sky.
Some showcase a soft and gentle light blue, reminiscent of serene sunny days. Others display a slightly deeper medium blue, mirroring the tranquil ocean on a clear day. For those seeking a touch of vibrancy, there are aquamarines with a captivating blue-green shade, resembling the lively movement of ocean waves.
And, for those drawn to more intense tones, some aquamarines boast a deep blue-green colour, evoking the mysterious depths of the sea. Each aquamarine hue offers a unique charm, capturing the beauty of nature's most peaceful elements within a single gemstone.
Where does Aquamarine come from?
Aquamarine is sourced from various locations around the globe. Brazil stands as a major producer, offering vibrant and richly hued aquamarines. Nigeria contributes with its deep blue-green varieties, while Madagascar provides gemstones with a diverse range of shades from light blue to blue-green. Pakistan is renowned for its high-quality and intensely blue aquamarines, while Mozambique yields beautiful blue gems of exceptional quality.
With each region offering its own unique characteristics, the allure of aquamarine remains cherished by gem enthusiasts worldwide.
Types of Aquamarine Jewellery
Cat's Eye Aquamarine
Rarely, aquamarines can exhibit chatoyancy, a unique optical effect that produces a striking line of light, resembling a cat's eye on the surface of the gem. These are known as cat's eye aquamarines and are highly prized by collectors.
Maxixe Aquamarine
Named after the town of Maxixe in Madagascar, this type of aquamarine displays a rare and intense blue colour with a tinge of violet. Unlike other aquamarines, Maxixe aquamarines are known for their ability to fade in colour over time when exposed to light, which sets them apart from other varieties.
Santa Maria Aquamarine
This term is often used to describe the most prized and intense blue aquamarines, reminiscent of the waters off the coast of Santa Maria in Brazil. These gems exhibit a stunning deep blue colour and are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
march birthstone
Aquamarine Birthstone Jewellery
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March, making it extra special for those born in that month. It's pretty blue and bluish-green colours bring a sense of calmness and happiness. It's like having a little piece of the ocean with you!
People believe that wearing aquamarine can give you courage and protect you on your adventures, just like the sea keeps sailors safe. So, if you're a March baby, wearing an aquamarine can bring you good luck and remind you of the beauty and joy in life.
Famous Aquamarines
The Dom Pedro Aquamarine
The Dom Pedro Aquamarine is a legendary gemstone, celebrated as one of the most remarkable aquamarines in the world. Named after the Brazilian Emperor Dom Pedro II, this magnificent gem was carved by the renowned gem artist Bernd Munsteiner in 1992. It weighs an astonishing 10,363 carats and stands as an extraordinary example of carving artistry.
Image: Donald E. Hurlbert, Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History
The Roosevelt Aquamarine
The Roosevelt aquamarine is a 1,298-carat step-cut aquamarine that was gifted to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by Brazilian President Getúlio Vargas in 1936. At the time, it was the largest cut aquamarine in the world. The stone was mined in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais and was cut from a rough stone that weighed 6,500 carats.
Image: Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
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