If you’ve ever been to a coast in the tropics and looked out over the sea water, you know how tranquil, beautiful and peaceful it is. Especially in places like the Carribean or Mediterranean. The mesmerizing colors of the cerulean waves invite you into a restful trance; the colors beyond captivating. The same holds true of Aquamarine. It bears the same hypnotic colors found in the waters of the sea. Actually, the name literally means “water of the sea” or Sea Water.

While Colorado is far from the shores of the Carribean, Mediterranean or any other number of pale green and blue waters, it is one of the few places in the United States where this gemstone is found, and it happens to be the state gemstone. Ironically, to find this gem that represents the colors of the deep, you must climb to great heights. Aquamarine has been discovered at over 14,000 feet, on Mt. Antero, and on Mt. White.

I suppose since Colorado doesn’t have the pleasure of having beautiful ocean water, this reminder-of-the-sea treasure was brought to us in the form of Aquamarine gemstones – our own piece of the ocean.

MEANINGS AND SYMBOLS

In addition to being the Colorado State Gemstone, the Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. It is also used, traditionally, as a 19th Anniversary gift.

Just as the waters of the sea bring a sense of tranquility and serenity, so too this gemstone, a form of beryl, has come to represent many of the characteristics of the sea. Believed to protect and guarantee safe passage to those who set sail over the ocean blue. It was used as far back as 480 BC in amulets.

Additionally, it was used by Roman bridegrooms as a wedding gift to symbolize lasting unity and love. Also believed to reawaken love or reconcile relationships that were strained or broken, or calm tensions between enemies. As a result, it is considered a soothing influence on married couples. Perhaps a great wedding or anniversary gift! Or even a perfect token of renewed/restored love.

The Aquamarine is also a symbol of youth, health, and hope.

INTERESTING FACTS OF THE AQUAMARINE

The Aquamarine gemstone is actually a cousin of the Emerald. Its color ranges from a very pale blue to deep blue. Deep blue aquamarine is the most valuable of the colors. In its natural form, the aquamarine has a green color to it, but once it is heat treated, it takes on the mesmerizing clear, blue color we are all so familiar with. However, is often confused with the lesser valuable Blue Topaz, which has a nearly identical color. Some questionable dealers will sell the Blue Topaz as an Aquamarine so be sure to do your due diligence when purchasing this particular gemstone.

It is usually found in very large six-sided crystal form and is often completely flawless. Because of the large size in which this gemstone is mined, it is perfect for large statement pieces and carats in jewelry.

dom pedro aquamarine smithsonian

Dom Pedro Aquamarine located at the Smithsonian Institute. (photo courtesy grey loch, Flickr)

At 10,363 carats, the largest cut Aquamarine is called the Dom Pedro and is housed at the Smithsonian Institute. The colors, size, and beauty of this piece simply take your breath away. It is actually only 1/3 of its original size as it was accidentally dropped when being removed from the mine. Can you imagine?!

FAMOUS AQUAMARINE JEWELRY

In 1953, the country of Brazil, the largest producer of Aquamarine, bestowed a dazzling coronation gift to Queen Elizabeth II of a diamond and aquamarine necklace and earring partial-parure. She was so taken by the set, that the Queen commissioned a complete parure that included a tiara, bracelet, and brooch as Brazil continued to gift her with these beautiful gemstones.

Another popular piece, and stunning in its own way, is the Hirsch Aquamarine necklace. A 109.92-carat emerald-cut stone set in 18k white gold and adorned with 118 diamonds.

There are so many reasons to love this gemstone. If you desire to create a custom piece with aquamarine, we’d love to work with you on a custom jewelry design to delight your eyes! Call us at 719-232-8122 to set up an appointment with Jack and his team.

 

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2020