Aquamarine is one of the most beautiful stones ever discovered, and it’s the perfect symbol of the brightness and hope that go hand in hand with spring. From its vibrant blue shade to its symbolism of health and hope, it is a perfect gemstone to represent March birthdays.
All About Aquamarine
Aquamarine’s name is Latin for seawater, which is easy to see thanks to its rich blue hue. Ancient mariners believed that aquamarine could calm the waves and protect sailors on the ocean. The Romans saw aquamarine as the sacred stone of Neptune, the God of the Sea, while the Greeks saw it as the stone of Poseidon, the Lord of the Sea. Other ancient legends hold that aquamarine stones were originally the treasures of mermaids, and that their powers of protection and health are amplified when they are placed in water.
Aquamarine can be found in a range of blue shades from pastel blue to a deeper green-blue. The intensity of the color is the result of how much iron is in the beryl crystal. This stone is unusual because true aquamarine never has any inclusions. The only stones with inclusions will only have them visible through tremendous magnification. The most valuable aquamarine stones are ones that are naturally occurring and deep blue. Those with green-blue tones can be heated to remove the yellow and make a clearer, more blue finished product.
Taking Care of Your Aquamarine Jewelry
Aquamarine is a 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, so it is durable enough to wear every day, but you should be cautious when wearing it with harder diamond jewelry that could scratch it. You should avoid exposing aquamarine stones to heat, but the color will stay just as gorgeous with exposure to light. To keep your jewelry clean, use mild dish soap and a soft bristled toothbrush or a jewelry cleaner recommended for use with your stones. If your stone does have any fractures, you should avoid using an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner and instead stick to warm water with gentle dish soap mixed in.
How Much Are Your Aquamarine Jewelry Pieces Worth?
Whether you have an aquamarine ring that you cherish or are looking to see the value of another birthstone jewelry piece in your collection, SAZ Gem & Jewelry Appraisal is here to help. For more information, give us a call at 425-785-1871.