AQUAMARINE GEMSTONES & JEWELRY
Of late aquamarine gemstones, because of its fascinating beauty , has become one of the favourite stones of mordern designers.
Aquamarine is one of the most popular and best-known gemstones, and distinguishes itself by many good qualities. Derived from the latin phrase
"sea water" , aquamarine belongs to the beryl family which also includes other popular
gemstones like
emeralds.
Hardness & Colour
Iron is the substance which gives aquamarine its colour, which can range from a faint light blue to blue and bluish-green.
The more intense the color of an aquamarine the valuable the stone is.
Moreover the color an aquamarine is more important than its purity.
To give an example; a 10 - 15 carat stone with a pale blue color would normally be much cheaper than a 1 carat deep blue stone.
Generally speaking though aquamarine gemstones are almost entirely free of inclusions.
Aquamarine , due to its hardness (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale) and wonderful and beautiful shine, makes it a real favourite amongst jewelers.
Don't Be Fooled
Aquamarine is easily mistaken for blue topaz, due to the similarity of colors. Blue topaz is generally less expensive than aquamarines.
Many times intentionally or unintentionally , many customers have been sold blue topaz as an aquamarine.
I myself am witness to it countless number of times in my shops.
Just stick to jewelers with whom you are confident enough while buying an aquamarine.
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Taking Care
Cleaning your aquamarine stone depends on whether the stone you purchased was natural or heat treated. Nowadays it is a common practice to heat
treat aquamarines to change their colors to a deeper blue.
If your stone is natural avoid soap, ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners. Clean your aquamarine gemstone gemstone
using room temperature running water and a soft toothbrush to brush the accumulations of dirt and dust. You will see it brighten and sparkle
like new.
On the other hand if your aquamarine stone has already been heat treated then its alright to clean your aquamarine in
ultrasonic jewelry cleaner or with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush.
Legends & Healing Properties
According to a legend , aquamarine is a sailor's lucky stone, it keeps them safe and prevents seasickness.
It is an ideal gem for married couples, and according to old traditions, it brings the woman joy and wealth and promises a long and happy marriage.
Aquamarine helps against problems of the jaw and throat and also helps to strengten the liver and kidneys. It is also said to increase the wearer's
courage and intelligence and make one more youthful.
Sources
Though aquamarines are mined in many countries in Asia, Africa , America & Russia, by far the best aquamarines are found in only two countries;
Brazil & Mozambique.
"Santa Maria", is the name given to the magnificent intense blue aquamarine from the santa maria de itabira mine in Brazil, by far one of the best
in the world.
Similiar stones come from some of the mines in Mozambique as well. To help differentiate them from the brazilian ones these aquamarines have
been given the name of "Santa Maria Africana".
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