Aquamarine Stone: Meaning, Color, Value & 20 Facts

Aquamarine Stone at a Glance

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 Dom Pedro Aquamarine is the world's largest cut aquamarine. It was cut from a giant crystal discovered in Minas Gerais, Brazil, during the 1980s. The finished gemstone weighs an impressive 10,363 carats (about 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. Aquamarine belongs to the beryl mineral family and has the chemical formula Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈.
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. Aquamarine is typically transparent and often contains fewer visible inclusions than emerald, even though both gemstones belong to the beryl mineral family.
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 value of an aquamarine depends on its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Richer blue color, excellent transparency, and a well-cut gemstone generally command higher prices.
18. Throughout history, aquamarine has been associated with serenity, courage, and safe travel at sea. In folklore, it has also been linked to calming energy and clear communication. Learn more about birthstone colors & meanings.
19. Aquamarine is prized for its excellent clarity and ability to reflect light beautifully, especially when it is well cut and properly polished.
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.