Aquamarine is one of the most admired gemstones worldwide famous for its soft blue color reminiscent of the serenity of the ocean. In addition to being widely found in Brazil, aquamarine is extracted in various countries and has a rich history, especially with the famous Santa Maria aquamarine.In this post, we'll explore its main characteristics, the producing countries, its hardness on the gem scale, and dive into the history of Santa Maria aquamarine.
What is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a variety of the beryl family beryljust like emerald. Its blue color comes from the presence of iron in its composition. The more intense the blue, the more valuable the stone. In addition to its beauty, aquamarine is known for its durability and clarity, making it a popular choice for jewelry such as rings and necklaces.
Hardness of Aquamarine
On the Mohs scale, which measures the hardness of minerals, aquamarine ranks between XNUMX and XNUMX. This makes it a relatively hard and durable gemstone for everyday use in jewelry. Its resistance allows it to be used in various pieces without significant concerns about damage or wear.
Main Aquamarine Producing Countries
Although Brazil is the largest producer of aquamarine, other countries also stand out for producing high-quality stones:
- BrazilThe world’s leading producer, with Minas Gerais state renowned for its top-quality aquamarines.
- NigériaFamous for aquamarines with intense blue hues.
- MadagascarKnown for its vibrant-colored aquamarines.
- PakistanProduces gems with lighter colors and high transparency.
- Mozambique and e AfghanistanBoth are significant sources of good-quality aquamarines.
The Legendary Aquamarine of Santa Maria
One of the rarest and most valuable types of aquamarine is the Santa Maria aquamarine.named after Santa Maria de Itabira in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Discovered in the 1950s and 1960s, Santa Maria aquamarine is highly prized for its deep, saturated blue color, which distinguishes it from other lighter varieties of the gemstone. Its unique color is so remarkable that “Santa Maria” has become a benchmark for high-quality aquamarines worldwide.
Though the mines in Santa Maria have largely depleted their deposits, the name “Santa Maria” is still used in the market to describe aquamarines found in other countries, such as Mozambique, that exhibit similar coloration. However, authentic stones from the Brazilian region remain exceptionally rare and are highly sought after by collectors and high-end jewelers.
Brazil's Aquamarines
In addition to the famous Santa Maria aquamarine, Brazil is known for producing gems in various shades, from light blue to blue-green. Mines in Minas Gerais e Bahia produce some of the most transparent and pure aquamarines, significantly contributing to the global gemstone industry.
Difference Between Aquamarine, Beryl, and Emerald
Aquamarine and emerald belong to the same mineral family, beryl, but they have visible differences. Emerald is green, while aquamarine ranges from light blue to blue-green. Emeralds tend to be more fragile due to more inclusions, while aquamarine is generally clearer and more durable.
History and Symbolism
Aquamarine has been associated with protecting sailors and bringing luck on sea voyages since ancient times. In Ancient Rome, it was believed to provide success and protection on ocean crossings. Additionally, aquamarine is the birthstone of March, symbolizing peace, harmony, and clarity of thought.
How to Choose the Perfect Aquamarine
When selecting an aquamarine, color and clarity are key factors. Stones with deeper blue tones, like Santa Maria aquamarines, are extremely valuable. However, lighter shades are also highly appreciated, especially by those seeking a more delicate aesthetic.
International Sources of Information:
If you want to dive deeper into the world of gemstones, websites like GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and American Gem Society offer a wealth of information on the characteristics and value of aquamarine.
https://www.gia.edu/aquamarine
https://www.americangemsociety.org/the-birthstone-of-march-aquamarine/ https://www.americangemsociety.org/aquamarine-history/
Conclusion
Aquamarine is a fascinating gemstone, with serene beauty and a rich history. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast or searching for the perfect piece of jewelry, knowing the origins, properties, and variations of this stone can help you make an informed choice.
The Santa Maria aquamarine, in particular, stands out as one of the rarest and most valuable in the world, solidifying Brazil as a powerhouse in producing high-quality gemstones.
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