Aquamarine

As its name suggests, aquamarine evokes the clear blue of seawater. This gemstone is a blue to blue-green variety of the beryl family (the same family as emerald). Aquamarine’s colour ranges from a pale icy blue to a deeper teal, with the most valued stones displaying a vivid sky-blue hue. With a Mohs hardness of about 7.5–8, aquamarine is quite durable for engagement rings, especially since it typically has far fewer inclusions than emerald. In fact, its relative clarity and toughness (often free of internal fractures) make aquamarine a popular choice for large, stunning cuts. It’s common to see it fashioned in emerald cuts or oval solitaires that show off its brilliance.  

An aquamarine engagement ring offers a refreshingly cool, serene look, perfect for those who love the ocean’s hues or want a calming, elegant colour in their ring. Aquamarine is also the March birthstone, symbolising youth, hope and fidelity. 

Hardness: 7.5–8 (Mohs scale), strong enough for everyday wear. Household dust (hardness ~7) won’t scratch aquamarine, meaning it can maintain a good polish over time. Unlike its cousin emerald, aquamarine generally lacks significant inclusions, so it’s less prone to cracking and can be cut in bold shapes with less worry. 

Colour: Typically, light blue or greenish-blue. The finest aquamarines are a pure, vibrant blue (sometimes called “Santa Maria” blue, after a famous Brazilian mine). Many aquamarines on the market are heat-treated to reduce green tones and enhance the pure blue. The gem’s name comes from Latin aqua marinus, meaning “water of the sea,” fitting its gentle oceanic colour. 

Origin: Brazil has historically been the primary source of high-quality aquamarine (Minas Gerais produces many gem-quality crystals). Other notable sources include Pakistan (many fine aquamarines come from the Himalayas), Nigeria, Mozambique and Madagascar. In the United States, smaller quantities have come from places like Colorado’s Mount Antero. 

Notable Fact: Aquamarine’s connection to the sea spawned a legend that it calmed waves and kept sailors safe. In modern times, one famous aquamarine adornment is the emerald-cut aquamarine ring once owned by Princess Diana, which Meghan Markle famously wore to her wedding reception. Aquamarines often appear in art deco-style rings and other vintage designs, prized for their ice-blue radiance.

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