Aquamarine is the blue, or perhaps more correctly, the blue-green or aqua variety of the mineral beryl. Other gemstones color varieties that are also the mineral beryl include emerald, morganite, and heliodor. Aquamarine is colored by trace amounts of iron. Most aquamarines have been heat-treated to produce the popular blue-green colors from the less desirable yellow or pale stones. The leading producer of aquamarines is the country of Brazil, which has many mines. Pakistan, as well as many U.S. localities, produces wonderful specimens as well.
Aquamarine often forms perfect, flawless crystals - unlike emerald for which flawless crystals are extremely rare. Aquamarine has a good hardness, 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, and a wonderful shine.
It's name is derived from the Latin "aqua" (water) and "mare" (sea). It is the jewel of the mermaid and the stone of the seafaring traveler. It is a highly mystic stone. Aquamarine symbolizes peace and clarity and encourages calmness, tranquility and hope. Since early times, aquamarine has been believed to endow the wearer with foresight, courage and happiness. It is said to increase intelligence and make one youthful. As a healing stone, it is said to be effective as a treatment for anxiety.
Enjoy!
Aquamarine paired with blue fluorite, lapis lazuli and quartz - fun combination
Aquamarine paired with labradorite - elegant combination
