Aquamarine. The very name conjures up beautiful images of tranquil, blue-green oceans. A member of the beryl family of gemstones, this gorgeous blue stone is a favourite of ours at Hunters Fine Jewellery. The name aquamarine comes from the Latin words 'aqua' meaning water and 'mare' meaning sea, and the gemstone has been used in jewellery making for thousands of years due to its colour, clarity and sparkle. Once mysteriously thought to be mermaids' treasure, sailors and seafarers would often carry aquamarine as a talisman for protection against the dangers at sea. Soldiers would also take aquamarine gemstones with them when going into battle.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for those born in March and the modern gemstone choice for 19th anniversaries. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, similar to emerald. Brazil is the largest producer of aquamarine. The beautiful blue colour of aquamarine comes from the gemstone's iron content, and the colour can range from palest blue to shades of green-blue. Aquamarine gemstones are generally free of inclusions giving them a pure, watery appearance.
Spiritually, aquamarine is said to be a very healing gemstone that brings peace, calmness and clarity of mind. It is also thought to re-energise love between couples and bring soothing harmony to relationships.
Aquamarine looks particularly stunning when paired with diamonds. The bright white sparkle of diamonds alongside the pale blue coolness of aquamarine works superbly.
Here at Hunters Fine Jewellery we offer some charming antique aquamarine pieces as well as brand new, specially designed aquamarine statement jewellery.