Aquamarine Green or Blue: From Ocean Depths to Sun-Kissed Shores

Aquamarine, a gemstone that has enchanted humanity for centuries. a gemstone that evokes the serene beauty of the ocean. Whether you envision it as greenish-blue or true blue, aquamarine has a fascinating story to tell.

The Origins of Aquamarine

Aquamarine was first discovered in Siberia in the year 1723—a surprising origin far from the sea itself. However, by the end of the 18th century, large deposits were being mined and sent to Western Europe. This gemstone belongs to the beryl family, which also includes emerald. The process of creating each aquamarine is a slow one, taking thousands of years. The result is a crystal-clear, durable gem that captures the essence of the ocean’s depths. The name “aquamarine” is derived from two Latin words: aqua, meaning “water,” and marina, meaning “of the sea”.

Legends and Beliefs

Mermaids’ Treasure: Ancient tales claim that aquamarine came from the treasure chests of mermaids. Sailors used this gemstone as a lucky charm to protect against shipwrecks.
Roman Healing Properties: Roman physicians believed that aquamarine had healing properties. Interestingly, when submerged in water, the stone becomes almost invisible, adding to its mystical allure.
Sailors’ Talisman: In ancient lore, aquamarine was considered the treasure of mermaids and used by sailors for good luck, fearlessness, and protection. It was also associated with eternal youth and happiness.
Sacred Jewel of Neptune: In Greek and Roman myths, aquamarine became the sacred jewel of Neptune. It was believed to have the power to calm stormy waters and protect seafarers from peril.

Aquamarine’s Aesthetics

Two thousand years ago, people in Greece engraved intricate designs into aquamarine stones, turning them into intaglios. Fans of aquamarine appreciate its cool and tranquil color, making it a perfect complement to any skin tone or setting. Whether you’re drawn to its deep blues or sun-kissed greens, aquamarine remains a timeless gemstone that captures the essence of water and sky.

The Many Hues of Aquamarine

1. Deep Blue Aquamarine

When people think of aquamarine, they often picture a sparkling blue gem that mirrors the sea. This calming blue hue is famed worldwide and easily recognizable. But did you know that aquamarine can show a range of blues, from deep to very light, almost clear? The color of aquamarine comes from iron in the earth where it grows. Darker stones usually have more iron, resulting in a richer blue. Deep blue aquamarine mirrors the darkest parts of the ocean and is often more sought after due to its intense color. Countries like Brazil, Nigeria, and Madagascar are well-known for producing these gems. They’re typically found in granite rocks, pegmatites, and sometimes in alluvial deposits of rivers. The value of aquamarine depends on factors like color, clarity, cut, and carat weight ¹.

2. Green-Blue Aquamarine

Green-blue aquamarine offers a unique blend that reflects the shallow, sunlit edges of the ocean. Here, green and blue are more evenly balanced, creating a refreshing and vibrant hue. You’ll find this shade of aquamarine in countries with rich deposits of the mineral beryl, such as Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia. It’s like capturing the essence of sun-kissed waves and tropical waters in a gemstone. Green-blue aquamarine adds a touch of nature’s tranquility to any jewelry piece ¹.

The Science Behind Aquamarine’s Colors

Iron Influence: The color of aquamarine is influenced by trace amounts of iron in the stone. Most natural aquamarine has a greenish-blue color. Gentle heat treatment can remove the yellow component and transform the gem’s color to a more pure and valuable blue ².
Preferred Shade: The preferred aquamarine color is a dark blue to slightly greenish blue with moderate intensity. Gems over 5 carats showcase this striking hue. It’s a delicate balance between the blues of the deep sea and the greens of coastal shallows ³.

Styling with Aquamarine

Pairing: Aquamarine pairs beautifully with white, offering an elegant and fresh look. Whether set in rings, necklaces, or earrings, it exudes sophistication.
Symbolism: Beyond aesthetics, aquamarine symbolizes courage, calmness, and protection—qualities associated with the sea.

In conclusion, whether you lean toward the deep blues or the sun-kissed greens, aquamarine remains a timeless gemstone that captures the essence of water and sky. Wear it proudly, and let its soothing hues transport you to coastal shores and ocean depths. To see more arts of animals, click here.