Admire an aquamarine and let its alluring aura wash over you. This gem radiates a tranquil and calming aura, similar to a lagoon lighted by the sun on a quiet spring day. Its color captivates the mind and inspires a sense of tranquility as it flits among the soft hues of transparent ocean blue and the bright aqua of tropical oceans. The dazzling light show produced by the sun's golden beams as they touch the water's surface is stunning. The Aquamarine has a subtle iridescence evocative of sun-dappled waters as it sparkles and bounces. The gem's hypnotic clarity, which is reminiscent of clear lakes, gives it an ethereal character that enchants everyone who sees it. By donning Aquamarine, one can travel the limitless realms of the ocean without ever leaving land by assuming the form of a mermaid or merman. It urges you to go off on a journey of self-discovery while whispering tales of legendary maritime lore from long ago. The mysterious allure of this stone encourages reflection by motivating us to explore our feelings in depth, reveal unspoken truths, and embrace our deepest aspirations.
Overview
A mesmerizing birthstone appears in the wispy month of March as winter's cold hold on the world begins to break. This birthstone's marine charm captures the hearts and minds of everyone who encounters it. A mysterious gemstone that captures both the calm sea's character and the vast dimensions of the soul of humanity is the aquamarine.
Aquamarine, a precious gem given to March-born individuals by the sea itself, is their brilliant birthstone. Those born beneath this aquatic jewel have an extraordinary knack for adaptation and an instinctive capacity to traverse the ever-shifting winds of life, just as the seasons come and go. Amid the turmoil, they radiate a calm strength that enables them to withstand any storm.
So welcome the aquamarine's soft murmurs, whose serene hues capture March's spirit. Allow it's meditative beauty and rich imagery to sweep over you, reviving your spirit and enticing you to go on a soul-stirring trip under the surface of the ocean. Explore this precious gem's depths to find its hidden riches, which include love, bravery, and an unending link to the ethereal seas of the heart of humanity.
Since ancient times, people have treasured and adored the aquamarine gemstone for its deep heritage and magical charm, which carries an array of symbolic meanings. This alluring jewel has been embellished with deep significance and given tremendous abilities by prehistoric cultures as well as medieval mythology.
Symbolism
The Aquamarine, which reflects the alluring colors and intangible substance of the water, was formerly linked to the enchanting world of the sea. It was seen as having a close affinity towards the huge water, as such, it represented the unbridled might and immensity of water. For seamen and other mariners, this gemstone was frequently viewed as a talisman, protecting them from the dangers of the open sea. It was believed to soothe turbulent seas, ensuring uninterrupted travel and guarding anyone crossing the waves.
Additionally renowned as a representation of innocence and simplicity, the aquamarine. Its transparent blue hues, which were compared to the cleanest seas, were thought to represent spiritual purity and tranquility. It was said to have the power to purify the intellect, encourage inner equilibrium, help people let go of emotional belongings, and help them find peace. The diamond was frequently utilized in meditation techniques to promote serenity and enlightenment.
As a representation of devotion and affection, aquamarine also had symbolic value. According to traditional beliefs from long ago, the gem might promote peace and strengthen relationships between individuals. As a token of their enduring love and as a protection to shield their relationships from strife and disagreement, lovers often swap aquamarine jewelry.
Properties
Hardness and strength
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which measures a mineral's ability to resist scratching, Aquamarine ranks at 7.5 to 8. This places it within a range that signifies a notable degree of hardness. To put it into perspective, the scale ranges from 1 (the softest, like talc) to 10 (the hardest, like a diamond). This high rating indicates that Aquamarine is relatively resistant to surface abrasions and scratching, making it well-suited for everyday wear and enduring the rigors of regular handling.
Treatment
- To improve the color of aquamarines, precisely controlled heating is frequently used. With this procedure, the blue tones may be enhanced while undesired greenish tones are eliminated and total clarity is enhanced.
- Aquamarines' natural blue color can be enhanced by irradiation, producing unusual colors like greenish-blue or blue-green. The stones that have been exposed to radiation may then be heated to stabilize the color. Irradiation is a lifelong therapy, which is crucial to remember.
- The filling substance increases the transparency of the diamond, reduces the appearance of these flaws, and enhances its overall appearance. It's crucial to remember that oil or resin solutions can need extra upkeep because the filling components might eventually be harmed by heat or chemicals.
- Rarely, aquamarines may receive coatings on the surface to improve or temporarily change their look. When seen from specific angles, these coatings can produce optical phenomena like iridescence or color variations.
Quality and grading
Color
Brazilian Aquamarine: Brazil is renowned for producing high-quality Aquamarines, often showcasing a vibrant blue color. Brazilian Aquamarines can exhibit exceptional clarity and are highly sought after by gemstone connoisseurs.
Santa Maria Aquamarine: As mentioned earlier, this type is known for its intense blue color, reminiscent of the mesmerizing waters of the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil.
Madagascar Aquamarine: Aquamarines from Madagascar are celebrated for their medium to light blue colors and remarkable transparency. They often possess excellent clarity and can display captivating brilliance when faceted.
Nigerian Aquamarine: Nigerian Aquamarines are highly regarded for their bright and vivid blue colors. They can exhibit exceptional transparency and are coveted by gemstone enthusiasts.
Antique and Vintage Aquamarines: Aquamarines found in antique or vintage jewelry can showcase unique cuts and settings. These pieces often have a nostalgic charm and can feature Aquamarines with different color variations due to variations in mining sources and lapidary practices throughout history.
Clarity
Like many other gemstones, aquamarine has the potential to have natural particles, which are flaws that developed inside while the gem crystallized. These inclusions can appear in a variety of ways, such as small mineral crystals, spaces filled with liquid, or formations resembling needles. Rutile needles, liquid-filled cracks known as "lily pads," or fingerprint-like patterns known as "rain" are frequent inclusions in aquamarine.
Known for being transparent to translucent, aquamarine allows light to travel through it and provides an alluring display of color and brightness. Frequently, the extent to which these microscopic inclusions are discernible with the unaided eye is used to gauge the clarity of aquamarine. Higher clarity grades are seen as being present in gemstones that have fewer, less obvious inclusions.
Cut
Proper proportions and well-executed facets are crucial in Aquamarine cutting. The gem should be cut with precise angles and facets that allow light to enter and reflect within the stone, creating brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Careful attention is given to achieving optimal symmetry, ensuring that facets align symmetrically across the gem's surface.
Carat
A carat weighs 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams, in measuring terms. In the gem and jewelry business, it is a standardized unit that is used to calculate the weight of gemstones. A decimal or a range of carats is commonly used to describe the gemstone's weight of an aquamarine (for example, 1.50 carats or 2.75-3.00 carats).
Since larger aquamarines are more uncommon than smaller ones, their value and market demand are higher. Due to the rarity of bigger gemstones, the cost per carat may rise as the weight of the diamond grows. However, other elements like color, clarity, and general quality all have a big impact on how much aquamarine is worth.
Care instructions
- Despite having a modest amount of toughness, aquamarine may nevertheless be damaged by scratches and chips when handled roughly. Be gentle when handling your Aquamarine jewelry and keep it away from any bumps or rough surfaces.
- When exposed to strong chemicals and everyday cleansers, aquamarine can lose its luster or even get damaged. Keep bleach, chlorine, acids, and abrasive cleaning solutions away from your aquamarine jewelry.
- Long-term exposure to extreme heat can cause aquamarine's color to deteriorate or lose some of its vibrancy. Keep your Aquamarine away from sources of intense heat such as direct sunshine, hot water, saunas, or extended exposure to warm environments.
- Use a moderate mixture of simmering water and a dishwashing detergent, or a specialized jewelry cleaner, for washing your Aquamarine jewelry. To remove dirt or debris, gently clean the gemstone with a gentle toothbrush or a soft cloth.
- Avoid subjecting your Aquamarine to abrupt temperature changes, like submerging it in freezing water after being subjected to heat, or the opposite. The likelihood of injury is lower with gradual temperature fluctuations.
- It is advised to frequently get your Aquamarine jewelry examined by a qualified jeweler. They may evaluate the gemstone's state, look for any loose settings, and perform any required upkeep or repairs.
