10 Fascinating Facts About Aquamarine Gemstones – Aquamarine is a stunning gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. Its cool blue color and sparkling clarity make it a popular choice for jewelry. But how much do you know about this gemstone?
Facts About Aquamarine Gemstones
Here are 10 fascinating facts about aquamarine that may surprise you.
1. Aquamarine gets its name from the Latin word for seawater
The blue-green color of aquamarine is reminiscent of the ocean, which is why it’s often associated with the sea. The Latin word “aqua” means water, and “marina” means of the sea, hence the name “aquamarine.” This beautiful gemstone has been compared to the colors of the ocean for centuries, with its shades ranging from pale, almost colorless blue to a deeper, greenish blue.
2. Aquamarine is a type of beryl
Beryl is a mineral that forms in hexagonal crystals. Other types of beryl include emerald and morganite. The chemical formula for aquamarine is Be3Al2(SiO3)6. The blue color of aquamarine is caused by traces of iron in the crystal structure, which absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others.
3. The largest known aquamarine ever discovered weighed over 110 pounds
This massive stone was found in Brazil in the late 20th century. It measured over 3 feet long and was valued at over $10 million. This impressive gemstone was cut into smaller pieces, but its size and rarity make it a valuable piece of history.
4. Aquamarine is the birthstone for March
Those born in March are lucky enough to have this stunning gemstone as their birthstone. The gemstone is associated with the zodiac sign Pisces and is believed to bring good luck and protection to those who wear it.
5. Aquamarine is a relatively hard gemstone
On the Mohs scale of hardness, which measures a mineral’s resistance to scratches, aquamarine rates a 7.5 to 8 out of 10. This means that it’s a relatively hard gemstone and can withstand everyday wear and tear. However, it’s still important to take care of your aquamarine jewelry to prevent scratches and damage.
Related: Aquamarine Stone: Meaning, History and Properties
6. The color of aquamarine can vary depending on the light source
In natural daylight, aquamarine appears bluish-green. But under artificial light, it may appear more blue or green. This is due to the way light interacts with the iron in the crystal structure. The color of aquamarine can also vary depending on the cut of the stone, with some cuts emphasizing its blue tones and others emphasizing its green tones.
7. Aquamarine is believed to have healing properties
Some people believe that aquamarine can help with communication, emotional balance, and even physical ailments. It’s said to promote calmness and tranquility, as well as improve relationships and promote self-expression. Aquamarine is also believed to help with physical ailments such as allergies, respiratory issues, and digestive problems.
8. Aquamarine is found in many countries around the world
Brazil is the largest producer of aquamarine, but it can also be found in countries such as Madagascar, Afghanistan, and the United States. Aquamarine is often found in pegmatite, which is a type of rock that contains large crystals of various minerals. This makes aquamarine a relatively rare gemstone.
9. Aquamarine is sometimes treated to enhance its color and clarity
Heat treatment is often used to enhance the color of aquamarine, while fracture filling can be used to improve its clarity. Heat treatment involves heating the stone to a high temperature to change its color, while fracture filling involves filling in cracks or fractures with a substance to improve the stone’s appearance. While these treatments are common in the gemstone industry, it’s important to know whether or not a stone has been treated before making a purchase.
10. Aquamarine has been worn by royalty and celebrities
Throughout history, aquamarine has been a popular gemstone among royalty and celebrities. Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and Kate Middleton have all worn aquamarine jewelry. Marilyn Monroe was also a fan of aquamarine and often wore a necklace and earrings set that was gifted to her by baseball legend Joe DiMaggio.
Related: Aquamarine Zodiac Sign: The Perfect Gemstone for the Aquarius
Conclusion
Aquamarine is a gemstone with a rich history and fascinating properties. From its association with the sea to its healing properties, there’s a lot to learn about this stunning stone. Whether you’re looking to purchase aquamarine jewelry or simply appreciate its beauty, these 10 facts provide a glimpse into the world of aquamarine.