Named sometime in the 18th century, aquamarine means “water of the sea.” This highly sought-after gem is the official birthstone for those with March birthdates. It also reigns as one of the most prized offerings in the vibrant, rainbow spectrum of precious colored stones.
These fluid beauties are found in hues ranging from very pale blue to dark blue-greens. They can be found in quite large sizes and usually have excellent clarity.
Though they are often confused with blue topaz, the two are not at all the same. Aquamarines are actually much more valuable due to the fact that their deeply calming azure color is naturally occurring. Blue topaz, however, is created by treating colorless topaz with radiation.
The Meaning of Aquamarines
The aquamarine possesses a storied history as endlessly rich as the stones themselves. Aquamarines are said to symbolize eternal youth and happiness. Historically, they were thought to possess powers far beyond that of their stunning beauty. According to legend, aquamarine gems encourage prosperity in mental and physical health.
It has also been said that the aquamarine protects those who wear it from harm. In fact, ancient sailors believed that the gem held powers that could ward off maritime disasters. The sparkling, crystalline gem was also thought to be the bounty of elusive mermaids.
Where Do Aquamarines Come From?
Aquamarine is mined in Brazil, throughout Africa and Asia, and in Colorado, where it acts as the state gemstone. In Brazil, they are found most in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil. Richly colored aquamarines also occur in African countries including Mozambique, Nigeria, Zambia, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Distinguished aquamarines of African origin are labeled “Santa Maria Africana.”
Aquamarines Famous in History
Aquamarines have inspired the creativity and imagination and powered the envy and lust of people and cultures since their discovery. Here are a few A-List aquamarines:
The Hirsch Aquamarine
The Hirsch Aquamarine is a huge, fancy, emerald-cut gem, at 109.92 carats. It is completely free of any treatments and 100% natural, which is common to aquamarines. The House of Louis XV rendered the deeply rich, sea blue stone into an exquisite pendant by surrounding the precious gem with 118 diamonds set in 18K white gold.
The Queen’s Gems
Queen Elizabeth II owns some of the most famous aquamarines. At her coronation in 1953, she was gifted with a sparkling aquamarine necklace and pair of earrings by the Brazilian president. She has since added a bracelet, brooch and tiara to her royal aquamarine collection.
Size Matters
A 911 carat aquamarine, again from Brazil, is displayed in the Smithsonian museum in Washington DC in the Hall of Gems alongside other famous stones such as the Hope Diamond.
Another show-stopper known for its size is the “Dom Pedro” aquamarine. It weighed 26 Kg and was cut in 1992. It remains as the largest aquamarine ever cut.
Our Featured Piece*
(Pictured above. *Subject to sale or prior sale.)
Create your own place in fine jewelry history with a piece like the beautiful “Masterpiece Aquamarine.” This rare piece features an 18.36 cts, center emerald cut aquamarine in the deepest blue. Set in 14k white gold, the finely cut large stone is surrounded by 24 sparkling round cut diamonds (2.50 cts). The stunning gem is thought to originate from the Santa Maria mine in Brazil, the aquamarine capital of the world.
Find stunning aquamarines like this one and many others to fit every style and budget at the Diamond & Jewelry Gallery in Studio City, California. We carry the largest selection of precious colored stones and EGL & GIA certified diamonds and jewelry anywhere – often more than 50% to 70% below retail.
Stop in anytime to see our beautiful selection of twinkling aquamarines. And while you don’t have to be a sailor to wear these gems inspired by the color of the sea, an aquamarine from the Diamond & Jewelry Gallery is guaranteed to make some waves!
-TO
diamondandjewelrygallery.com
*Featured Piece items are subject to sale or prior sale at any time.