20 Facts About Aquamarine Gemstones

1. The first discovery of the aquamarine was in Siberia in 1723. During that time, large crystal deposits were being mined and sent to Western Europe by the end of the 18th century.
2. Roman fishermen called the aquamarine gemstone “water of the sea.” They used the aquamarine gem for protection, safety, and good luck during fishing.
3. The largest known cut aquamarine is called the Dom Pedro aquamarine. It was found in the 1980s in Pedra Azul, Minas Gerais, Brazil, weighing 4.6 pounds.
4. It takes millions of years for an aquamarine to form.
5. Aquamarine gemstones are mostly mined in Brazil. They are also found in Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Zambia.
6. The chemical formula for an aquamarine gemstone is: Be₃Al₂SiO₆.
7. One of the most rare and sought-after aquamarines is the untreated sea-blue aquamarine.
8. Aquamarine gemstones come in various hues of blue—bluish green, blue-green, greenish blue, and deep blue.
9. The coloring of aquamarine gemstones is attributed to trace amounts of ferrous iron.
10. Many aquamarine gemstones are typically heat treated to remove the greenish tint, leaving the stone a pure blue color.
11. An aquamarine is the modern birthstone for the month of March.
12. Aquamarine is the gemstone for the 19th anniversary.
13. Deep color is the main consideration when cutting aquamarine gemstones, with designs like Barions and emerald cuts often preferred. More about gemstone cuts: Quick Guide to Gemstone Cutting Styles.
14. An aquamarine is a semi-precious gemstone.
15. Aquamarine gemstones are rated a 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, which defines a gemstone’s durability based on a scale from 1 to 10.
16. One of the most expensive aquamarine gemstones is the Santa Maria Aquamarine, originating from Brazil. It boasts a deep, untreated blue tone—the deeper the hue, the higher the price.
17. The average cost of a one-carat aquamarine is approximately $163. The value of an aquamarine is measured by the “Four Cs” of gemstone grading: color, clarity, cut, and carat.
18. Aquamarines are associated with serenity. It is often called the “breath stone” because it is associated with alleviating sinus, respiratory, and lung problems. More about birthstone colors & meanings.
19. Aquamarines are easy to polish, and using diamond polish is a great method.
20. To clean aquamarines, use warm water and mild soap for safety. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners if the stone has liquid inclusions or fractures. Also, steer clear of cleaning products with ammonia or alcohol.