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Aquamarine

Aquamarine crystals can grow to huge sizes and are usually blessed with excellent clarity

Gem body colours range from greenish blue to blue-green in light tones. Usually, the colour is more intense in larger stones, but some aquamarine from Africa displays deeper blues in faceted stones of less than 5cts. Brazil supplies the most aquamarine in the modern day market.

Like Emerald, Aquamarine is a member of the beryl species. The gem is March’s Birthstone.

General Info

Major Sources

South America, Africa, China, Australia, Brazil, Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Pakistan, US, Zambia

Stability

Environmental Factor

Reaction

 HeatExposure to heat not recommended
 LightStable
 ChemicalsAttacked by hydrofluoric acid

Quality

  • B - Included; light colour; good cut
  • A - Slightly included; medium to dark colour; good cut
  • AA - Eye clean; medium colour; good cut
  • AAA - Eye clean; medium to dark colour; good cut

Characteristics

Hardness

7.5-8 on the Mohs scale

Toughness

Good

Care

Aquamarine is rated "good" for everyday wear. Avoid exposure to heat, contact with chemicals, and protect from scratches and harsh blows.

To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.

Further care instructions