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| Aquamarine Gemstone in Pear Cut |
Gemological Properties/Sources:
These have a Moh's hardness of 7.5 - 8, their colour resulting from iron impurities within beryl crystal. Like other beryls they are durable and hard with excellent transparity and clarity, the best quality ones are transparent and eye clean. Some carry inclusions, a trademark of the Beryl family. Ones with inclusions are just as beautiful and valuable depending also on size and colour etc.
An intense and dark blue hue is the most coveted and valuable compared to the lighter Aquamarines however it is also rare. Colour would be the predominant evaluating criteria followed closely by the cut of the gemstone, lighter colour hue doesn't diminish the worth, as most people prefer the lighter ones.Some Aquamarines are heat treated to enhance colour, however this does not mean all are. Heating diminished unwanted green or yellowish tinges to the stone.
These gemstones are available in both faceted and cabochon cuts. The most preferred cut is the Emerald Cut - Emerald step cut, although other shapes cuts are just as fancied , just depends on the person and their style! :)
As for origin and sources, Brazil leads the way for Aquamarine mining. Other sources are India which is gaining quite the lead in becoming the biggest suppliers. They are also found in Australia, Myanmar (Burma), China, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Zambia and Zimbabwe, as well as the USA.
The largest find of gemstone quality aquamarine dates back to 1910 when the "Minas Gerais" mine in Marambaya, Brazil, unearthed a stone of 243 lb (110.5 kg), 18 inches (48.5 cm) long and 15.5 inches in diameter, that was cut into many gemstones with a total weight of more than 100,000 carats. The 'Dom Pedro', weighing 26 kg and cut in Idhar- Oberstein, Germany in 1992 by the gemstone designer Bernd Munsteiner, is the largest single piece of aquamarine to have ever been cut.
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| Aquamarine Gemstone in natural state, tumbled smooth. |
Aquamarine evokes the purity of crystalline waters, and the exhilaration and relaxation of the sea. It is calming, soothing, and cleansing, and inspires truth, trust and letting go. In ancient lore, for Greeks and Romans, Aquamarine was believed to be the treasure of mermaids, and was regarded by sailors as a talisman of good luck, fearlessness and protection against the dangers of the sea & sea sickness. Since traditionally used as a amulet stone by those who are at sea. Romans also associated this stone with Neptune, King of the Sea, a Roman God and a stone of young love. Ancient Egyptians put Aquamarine crystals in tombs for the journey to the afterlife an along with other ancient cultures such as Sumerian, Judaism this gemstone symbolized courage, happiness and everlasting youth.
In medieval times Aquamarine was thought to smooth over married relationships and bring love back to an estranged couple which has carried over time as well. Used also as a fortune telling/oracle stone in those times and as well as an antidote to poison, simply by wearing one.
Present day considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness. Today it protects all who travel by, over, or near water, and opens the channels of clear and heartfelt communication , also believed to have a soothing influence on relationships, especially in marriage. Its power to ensure a long and happy marriage makes it an excellent stone to give on anniversaries.
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| Aquamarine Gemstone in Emerald Cut |
It has a long list of positive influences. In Ayurveda (India's Ancient Medical Scriptures) its recommended that aquamarine reduces dullness of mind, promotes happiness and intelligence, enhances the power of speech, and improves memory. This tone also had Venus-like qualities, it is good for marred couples to wear aquamarine to enhance love in their relationship. Recommended that Aquamarine should be set in silver and worn on the little finger.Aquamarines are also said enhance communication and foresight. This 5th Blue Chakra - Throat Chakra is said to stimulate the ability to communicate ones deepest truths, and all about tuning your creative identity and self expression through communication. Physically, this Chakra keeps the throat, mouth and thyroid in healthy balance. Spiritually, supports creativity, truthfulness and exercising your own true will. The colour blue for this Chakra stands for tranquility, trust and intuition. Green is also the colour of the 4th Chakra- The Heart Chakra, therefore the greener Aquamarines will assist you in speak or create from the heart.
Aquamarine Cleaning & Care:
Even though these stones are very durable, they still require care and attention. Its best to avoid working with harsh chemicals when wearing one, and to prevent scratching store separately from other gemstones and jewelry. Use simple soapy water to clean, making sure all soap is rinsed out and dry with soft cloths. My recommendation is to store them in a piece of soft fabric or fabric line pouch or box to protect the stone. Keep away from high temperatures, spraying perfume or hairsprays on them, I'd put my Aquamarine jewellery on after getting fully ready, as I would recommend with any gemstone jewellery.
I hope you all enjoyed this informative/review/recommendation! Let me know what your thoughts were & if you have any further questions feel free to comment or email me!
Sincerely,
"CHIMERAH"
chimerah.net@gmail.com
