some blue and green crystals on a black surface

Dreaming in Aquamarine

some blue and green crystals on a black surface

After a long and frigid winter, we have officially entered spring—and that has us dreaming of warmer days, brightly hued blooms, and the promise of vacations by the water.

Springtime is also when we celebrate one of our favorite gemstones: The aquamarine. The birthstone for March, the aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, along with emerald and morganite. The gem
has been treasured for centuries for its beauty and durability—but at Sindur Fine & Antique Jewelry, we appreciate aquamarines for their versatility. These sparklers look great with any metal and can be incorporated into classic, understated pieces or bold baubles.

And, like all gems, the aquamarine has a rich and fascinating history. Let’s dive in.’

Blue Hues

The color of aquamarine can range from a very pale blue to a deeper blue-green; the exact hue depends on the amount of iron present in the crystal. Interestingly, aquamarine is sometimes heat-treated to intensify the color (but should always be clearly advertised as heat-treated).

The Way of Water

The name “aquamarine” comes from the Latin words “aqua” (meaning water) and “marina” (meaning sea), in a clear call-out to the ocean’s clear blue-green waters. In fact, the Ancient Greeks believed this gemstone could protect sailors and ensure a safe voyage across the sea.

Record-Breaker

The largest cut aquamarine in the world is known as the Dom Pedro. Originally mined in Brazil, this 10,000+ carat faceted obelisk currently lives in the Smithsonian’s National Gem & Mineral Collection.

Aqua Anniversary

In addition to being the designated birthstone for those born in March, the aquamarine is also the gemstone for celebrating the 19th wedding anniversary. (If you need help picking the perfect aquamarine for your spouse this year, we can help!)

Dazzling, Yet Durable

Aquamarine is a hard and durable gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for daily wear, and it is often used in engagement rings and other jewelry.

 

Interested in adding an aquamarine to your jewelry collection? We’re here to help. Browse our current offerings of aquamarine, or contact us to set up a personal shopping appointment!