Everything You Need To Know
About Aquamarine

Custom Santa Maria Aquamarine Ring on the finger of model

The Sapphire Merchant custom Santa Maria Aquamarine Ring

Table of Contents

  • What is Aquamarine?
  • Where Does Aquamarine Come From?
  • March's Birthstone
  • What are the Most Famous Aquamarine Pieces?
  • Is Aquamarine a Suitable Gemstone for a Ring?
  • Aquamarine Gemstones for Sale

At The Sapphire Merchant, we pursue Earth's most beautiful aquamarine gemstones. Each one is discovered during our travels to the world's most famous gem markets, carefully selected for our collection, brought home to New Zealand to be catalogued and then lovingly offered to you. Aquamarine is adored by our Kiwi and Aussie customers and is our second most popular selling gemstone after sapphires.

1. What is an Aquamarine?

Aquamarine (Beryllium Aluminium Silicate) is one of the Earth's most desired semi-precious minerals. Aquamarine occurs as well-shaped long prismatic crystals with striations and etch marks sometimes seen on the prism surfaces. Aquamarine belongs to the hexagonal crystal system and rates 7.5 - 8.00 on the Mohs hardness scale. Its lustre is vitreous; its specific gravity (SG) is 2.6 - 2.8, and its refractive index (RI) is 1.57 - 1.60. 

The word aquamarine was first used in the year 1677, not specific to the aquamarine we know today, but rather a colour indicator used with a range of gemstones such as aquamarine emerald, aquamarine sapphire and aquamarine topaz. The name aquamarine derives from the Latin word aqua, meaning 'water' and marina 'of the sea'. In 1723, in the picturesque cold mountains of Siberia, Russia, the first modern-day aquamarine deposits were discovered, and the name aquamarine became specific to this beryl variety. You only need to behold the crystal-clear clarity and calming blue hue of a high-quality and well-cut aquamarine to understand why it was assigned this perfectly fitting name.

Three Aquamarine Gemstones in Trillion, Emerald and Pear Cut

What Colour is Aquamarine?

Aquamarine occurs in various blue hues, from pale sky-blue to intense blue-green shades. In its unheated form, the more intense the blue colour, the more valuable the gem. Higher iron content results in deeper blue tones in aquamarine. Traces of other elements, such as chromium and vanadium, also affect aquamarine colouration. 

Aquamarine, Green Beryl, Goshenite, Emerald, Heliodor, and Morganite are all beryl, and they are all from the same family. In its purest form, beryl is colourless. However, impurities in the mineral change its variety. A trace of iron turns beryl into aquamarine, a trace of chromium turns beryl into emerald, and a trace of manganese turns beryl into morganite. 

What is Santa Maria Aquamarine?

The most high-value and coveted aquamarine crystal is a deep blue. The Santa Maria de Itabira mine, located in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, which is now near depleted, produces aquamarines with a rare, medium-dark toned, highly saturated colour known in the trade as 'Santa Maria.' Gem coinessuers and enthusiasts highly prize these gems.The colour-grading sits in a narrow window to gain the classification of true Santa Maria Aquamarine. The Munsell Colour System, used to grade gemstone colour, has approximately 1500 shades of colour, and only three of those shades constitute Santa Maria Blue. Additionally, the AIGS colour grading system states that the crystal must be absent of brownish or yellowish tones. Traditionally, the aquamarine would need to be of Brazilian origin to gain the title of Santa Maria. However, the term is applied to aquamarine from other origins if it meets the narrow colour grade requirement.

AIGS Santa Maria Colour Grade Chart

AIGS Santa Maria Aquamarine Colour Grade Chart

7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.77ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin

7.77ct Brazilian Aquamarine

$4,370.00
View Details

From the moment this aquamarine was presented to us, we knew it was a must-have for The Sapphire Merchant collection. Its flawless appearance, unusual fancy cut, and prestigious Brazilian origin make it one-of-a-kind! You will not find another like this worldwide. This aquamarine will be acquired quickly by an astute buyer, as all our most beautiful aquamarine pieces are. If this is the gemstone option for you, don't delay!

Is Aquamarine Heated?

Yes, expect your aquamarine to be heated! Most aquamarine crystals in their untouched form are yellowish, greenish or bluish-green. So, nearly all aquamarine available on the market has undergone heat treatment to clarify the gemstone and intensify its blue colour. The term 'heat treatment' can cause apprehensiveness in prospective buyers. It's important to acknowledge that heat treatment is the industry standard, and most highly valuable precious gemstones available have had heat applied. Aquamarine is generally heated to 752 degrees Celsius, removing impurities and the traces of the green hue, which are less desirable in this gemstone. The result of heat treatment in aquamarine is a stable blue colour that will not fade or change over time. When an aquamarine is assessed at a gem laboratory, the gemologist will not report on heat treatment as they would with sapphires and rubies. This is because it is a given that the aquamarine has undergone heat treatment. Heat treatment in aquamarine will not negatively affect the price.

Do Aquamarine's Have Inclusions?

High-quality aquamarine is an eye-clean gem that, in many cases, can be flawless. But natural inclusions are typical also. Standard inclusions in aquamarine include two-phase inclusions, which are trapped bubbles of liquid and gas. The visual property of chatoyancy is possible when the aquamarine has fine hollow rods in more significant numbers that run parallel to the length of the crystal, creating a rare cat-eye effect. In lesser numbers, these hollow tubes mimic the appearance of rain. Mica flakes are also a standard inclusion found in aquamarine. Inclusions occur in all precious gemstones and give clues to the origin and whether it is naturally occurring or not.

Santa Maria Aquamarine in emerald cut

1.15ct Brazilian Santa Maria Aquamarine

2. Where Does Aquamarine Come From?

Aquamarine deposits are found Earth-wide; however, a handful of origins are particularly notable for their clean, high-quality, consistent source of aquamarine crystal. 

Aquamarine Mined in Brazil

Brazil is the most well-known source of high-quality aquamarine in today's gem market. Famed for its large, high-clarity aquamarine specimens, Brazil produces the most expensive grade of aquamarine, which goes by the trade name Santa Maria. Santa Maria Aquamarine is an intense blue in its purest, unheated form. There are active mines in Bahia, Ceara, Espirito Santo, Minas Gerais and Paraíba, with some of these locations actively producing aquamarine for the past 300 years. Here at The Sapphire Merchant, we love Brazilian-origin aquamarine because we believe it is the most ethical choice. The Brazilian Mining Code governs mining activities in Brazil. In 2023, the newly elected government of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva proposed changes to current mining legislation, further establishing Brazil's commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices. The newly proposed legislation included clauses addressing the protection of Indigenous people's land, paying fair and reasonable remuneration to mine workers, reducing the environmental damage of mining activities and promoting a more accountable sector. If ethical mining practices are a deciding factor for you when gem shopping, then we recommend choosing a Brazilian-origin aquamarine.

Aquamarine Mined in Madagascar 

Madagascar, with its pristine white sand beaches, is a gem-rich island off the coast of the African continent that has become one of the leading producers of fine-quality aquamarine. One deposit in particular, Andilana Avaratra, was struck by accident when miners were looking for Mica. This is the most significant Aquamarine deposit found to date in Madagascar. The discovery of this vein caused a gem rush to the area, threatening a vital wetland with sediment washed off from the mining activities. Here at The Sapphire Merchant, we believe that mining should be conducted in a way that preserves the natural environment. For this reason, we rarely stock Aquamarine from Madagascar.

Aquamarine Mined in Pakistan

Pakistan's rugged and unforgiving terrain holds some of the most sensational Aquamarine deposits known today. In Northern Pakistan, in the mountainous regions of Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pegmatite veins in which aquamarine is formed lay deep within the rocky earth. Mining is particularly arduous due to the harsh weather conditions and remote terrain, but it is achievable. This challenging extraction process results in some of the best gem-quality aquamarine available on the market today, often a light, watery blue with sensational clarity.

Aquamarine Mining Areas of the world

3. March's Birthstone

Our Kiwi and Aussie customers adore aquamarine, and after sapphires, it is our second most popular gemstone for creating custom jewellery pieces. One factor behind its popularity is its status as the birthstone of March. In 1952, aquamarine was designated as March's birthstone, taking the place of the traditional option of bloodstone. Aquamarine translates to 'sea water' in Latin, fitting, as March falls under the zodiac of Pisces, a water sign. For this reason, it is used in custom-designed jewellery that is significant for those born in March.

Why is aquamarine the 19th Wedding Anniversary gift?

Why is aquamarine is the traditional 19th wedding anniversary gift? Here at The Sapphire Merchant we think that its serene blue colour symbolises the qualities of calmness, clear communication, and harmony, all reflecting the optimal ingredients of a deep and lasting relationship. As a couple reaches their 19th year of marriage, aquamarine's tranquil blue hue represents the peaceful understanding couples earn, that only time can cultivate. Aquamarine's symbolic connection to the sea mirrors the changing currents of a long-term partnership, making it an ideal gemstone to celebrate nearly two decades of love and commitment.

Aquamarine Folklore

The legend of aquamarine being the treasure of mermaids roots back to ancient maritime folklore, most likely influenced by Greek and Roman mythology. Legend has it that aquamarine was discovered in the treasure chest of a mermaid. Seafarers believed that aquamarine held mystical powers linked to the ocean and for this reason they carried it as a talisman of protection, believing it bestowed the gift of safe passage and calm waters.

4. What are the Most Famous Aquamarine Pieces?

Our Kiwi and Aussie customers adore aquamarine, and after sapphires, it is our second most popular gemstone for creating custom jewellery pieces. One factor behind its popularity is its status as the birthstone of March. In 1952, aquamarine was designated as March's birthstone, taking the place of the traditional option of bloodstone. Aquamarine translates to 'sea water' in Latin, fitting, as March falls under the zodiac of Pisces, a water sign. For this reason, it is used in custom-designed jewellery that is significant for those born in March.

The Dom Pedro Aquamarine

The astounding Dom Pedo Aquamarine specimen holds the title of the largest aquamarine specimen in the world. Three mining prospectors discovered it in the late 1980s at Pedra Azul, a mining region in Brazil. Fashioned from an enormous aquamarine crystal, it weighed an astonishing 27kgs and measured 60cm in length before being cut into its obelisk shape by Bernd Munsteiner. It took Munsteiner, a master gem cutter, over six months to complete, and upon completion, he named it the Dom Pedro after Brazil's two emperors who ruled in 1822 and 1841. The Dom Pedro can be viewed at the Gem Collection Gallery at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.

Lady Diana's Aquamarine Ring

The divorce ring is a very on-trend piece of jewellery to have made! Lady Diana, Princess of Wales, commissioned an Aquamarine ring to replace her wedding ring after her divorce from Prince Charles. She was a pioneer well before her time. Diana chose an exceptional 30ct emerald cut aquamarine and had it set in 24-carat gold and accentuated with the highest quality solitaire diamonds. A ring fit for a princess, she was often photographed wearing it. Diana's son, Prince Harry, gifted the ring to his wife, Meghan Markle, who wore it as her 'something blue' on their wedding day. 

The Brazilian Aquamarine Parure Tiara

One of Queen Elizabeth's favourite headdresses is the breathtaking Brazilian Aquamarine Parure Tiara, presented to her as a gift by the President of Brazil to mark her 1953 coronation. The Queen has been photographed over the years wearing this spectacular item.

Dom Pedro Aquamarine

Dom Pedro Aquamarine from Minas Gerais, Brazil is 10,633 Carats

5. Is Aquamarine a Suitable Gemstone for a Ring?

The Sapphire Merchant has designed some notable custom aquamarine jewellery pieces for our clientele, including aquamarine engagement rings. Aquamarine is acceptable as an engagement ring gemstone, but it can be a softer gem, so some care should be taken when wearing it day in and day out. Here are two examples of our custom jewellery work with aquamarine.

An Aquamarine Diamond Ring and Pendant Set 

Our client is a self-confessed lover of the colour blue, so aquamarine couldn't be a perfect gemstone choice for her! She previously had an incredible Aquamarine cocktail ring made by The Sapphire Merchant, and she wanted to create a set by adding a matching pendant. We sourced a sensational 10.46ct Aquamarine in a pear cut. Beautifully cut and with outstanding clarity, this jewel encapsulated everything desirable about a good quality aquamarine. We used the blueprint of her Aquamarine cocktail ring and recreated the design in pendant form, finishing the pendant in platinum with a halo of forty-three 1.50mm round brilliant diamonds. The result is a breathtaking modern heirloom, framing an exquisite gemstone that took thousands of years to form deep within Earth.

Aquamarine Pendant and Aquamarine Ring

The Sapphire Merchant custom Aquamarine Ring and Pendant Set

A Lab Report and Certification for an Aquamarine

Documentation is essential, as it ensures the authenticity of a natural gemstone. Aquamarine can be lab-created, and to the untrained eye, it is hard to tell the difference between a natural earth-mined emerald and a laboratory-created synthetic aquamarine. Having accompanying documentation, such as a laboratory report, gives you confidence in the product you purchase. The Sapphire Merchant offers reports with all our aquamarine, and upon request, we can upgrade any of our gems to a GIA report.

8.45ct Aquamarine AIG Report

Buying an Aquamarine

The Sapphire Merchant is a premier precious gemstone retailer and custom jewellery house. We travel to source and hand curate Earth's most exquisite precious gemstones. The Sapphire Merchant makes the exciting process of buying an aquamarine simple. We travel to the world's most distinguished gem markets and hand-curate our superb collection of aquamarine. Peruse our sensational range and uncover the gemstone meant for you and only you! Whatever you can dream of, The Sapphire Merchant can design and create for you. Contact us today to start a journey that defines your moment with an incredible custom jewellery piece, we work with clients in New Zealand and worldwide.

9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine
9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
9.80ct Aquamarine
9.80ct Aquamarine

9.80ct Aquamarine

$3,478.00
View Details

From the moment this aquamarine was presented to us, we knew it was a must-have for The Sapphire Merchant collection. Its flawless appearance, unusual fancy cut, and prestigious Brazilian origin make it one-of-a-kind! You will not find another like this worldwide. This aquamarine will be acquired quickly by an astute buyer, as all our most beautiful aquamarine pieces are. If this is the gemstone option for you, don't delay!

5. Aquamarine Gemstones for Sale

The Sapphire Merchant is a premier precious gemstone retailer and custom jewellery house. We travel to source and hand curate Earth's most exquisite precious gemstones. The Sapphire Merchant makes the exciting process of buying an aquamarine simple. We travel to the world's most distinguished gem markets and hand-curate our superb collection of aquamarine. Peruse our sensational range and uncover the gemstone meant for you and only you! Whatever you can dream of, The Sapphire Merchant can design and create for you. Contact us today to start a journey that defines your moment with an incredible custom jewellery piece, we work with clients in New Zealand and worldwide.

5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut
5.60ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut

5.60ct Aquamarine

$3,955.00
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin
5.63ct Aquamarine Emerald Cut Brazil Origin

5.63ct Aquamarine

$3,997.00
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
5.85ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin

5.85ct Aquamarine

$3,688.00
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin
7.27ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazil Origin

7.27ct Aquamarine

$5,780.00
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin
8.62ct Aquamarine Radiant Cut Brazil Origin

8.62ct Aquamarine

$4,685.00
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin
9.15ct Aquamarine Fancy Cut Brazilian Origin

9.15ct Aquamarine

$5,487.00
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin
10.17ct Aquamarine Oval Cut Brazil Origin

10.17ct Aquamarine

$6,960.00
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin
2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine Cushion Cut Brazil Origin

2.88ct Santa Maria Aquamarine

$2,633.00