Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the blue to greenish blue variety of the mineral beryl. Its name is derived from two Latin words: aqua, meaning “water,” and marina, meaning “of the sea”, and the name is appropriate to the colour of this gem. Crystals can grow quite large allowing the gem cutter to fashion sizeable gems.

Aquamarine is known as the sailor’s gem, and many believed that oceanic energy was captured within the delicate semblance of its colour. When amulets made of this precious gem were worn, sailors believed that unmatched bravery would be instilled in their souls. Naturally it is the treasure of mermaids. In medieval times, this stone was thought to awaken the love of married couples and ensure perpetual happiness. It is believed to represent unity.

As part of the beryl family, Aquamarine is the blue member, emerald-green, morganite pink and heliodor yellow.

The important criteria for selecting a fine Aquamarine is the intensity of the colour and its clarity. The best gems combine high clarity with limpid transparency and blue to slightly greenish blue hues.