Aquamarine — Quick guide, meaning, care & how to wear it
, by Orvèa & Co, 2 min reading time
Aquamarine is the sea-colored member of the beryl family: clear, cool blues that range from a whisper of aqua to deep ocean teal. Whether you’re hunting for a wedding set, a daily pendant, or a meaningful birthstone gift (March), this guide explains how to identify real aquamarine, choose a lasting piece, care for it, and style it so it elevates any outfit.
Quick facts (at-a-glance)
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Mineral family: Beryl
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Typical color: Pale blue to blue-green (can be very light or vivid)
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Mohs hardness: 7.5 – 8 (good for everyday wear with care)
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Common sources: Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Mozambique, Nigeria, Afghanistan
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Common treatments: Heat treatment (to deepen blue; widely accepted)
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Price range: Affordable to premium — color intensity, clarity, and size drive value
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Birthstone: March
What is aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl (the same family as emerald). Its color comes from trace amounts of iron inside the crystal structure. High-quality aquamarine is prized for its clarity and cool, watery hue. Because many commercial aquamarines are heat-treated to enhance the blue tone, the presence of treatment is common and widely accepted in the trade.
Short history & cultural notes
Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin aqua marina (“sea water”), reflecting its maritime color. Historically sailors believed it was a talisman for safe voyages; today the stone is popular for bridal jewelry and for people who favor fresh, light palettes. It’s also a traditional gift for anniversaries and for March birthdays.
Meaning & symbolic associations
Common, non-medical associations for aquamarine include:
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Calm, clarity, and a serene aesthetic
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Fresh starts and travel (historical sailor ties)
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Elegance and understated luxury — especially in lighter, high-clarity stones
These associations are cultural and historical, not medical—present them as symbolic or traditional.
Ready to shop aquamarine? Explore our curated selection of aquamarine bracelets—each piece lists treatments, care tips, and the best matching settings so you can buy with confidence. SHOP NOW!
