Chemical Formula: Be3Al 2SiO 6
Hardness: 7.5 - 8
Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.8
Aquamarine is a transparent pale blue to light greenish
blue variety of beryl used as a gemstone. A truly fascinating
stone, Aquamarine is the source of inspiration for the artists
for innovative cuts than from other stones. The distinct
and appealing color arises emotions of sympathy, trust,
harmony or friendship. As per the legend, the origin of
Aquamarine is believed to be in the treasure chest of the
legendary mermaids and is renowned to be a lucky stone for
sailors. Its name has been derived from the Latin terms
"aqua" meaning water, and "mare" or
sea.
Related to Emerald, Aquamarine belongs to the gemstone family
of Beryls with the color being more evenly distributed in
Aquamarine than in Emerald. Aquamarine is usually free of
inclusions and possesses a superior brilliance. The more
intense the color of an Aquamarine, the higher its value.
The variety of shades of Aquamarine are known by their unique
names: "Santa Maria" is the name for the rare
Aquamarine found in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil.
Some other are denoted as "Santa Maria Africana"
found in Aquamarine gemstone mines Mozambique, in Africa.
Those from Brazil are given the name "Espirito Santo"
from the state of Espirito Santo. Aquamarines are also found
in Nigeria, Madagascar,
Mozambique, Afghanistan
and Pakistan.
With the divine and eternal color of the skies, the clear
and transparent gemstone is often used for modern jewelry
design with stylish and elegant cuts that makes it truly
appealing and beautiful.
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