Aquamarine: The Cool Blue Gemstone Loved on the South Coast
A loose asscher cut aquamarine being inspected by Sara, our onsite designer and gemmologist.
What Makes Aquamarine So Special?
Aquamarine is a stunning gemstone that instantly brings to mind the sparkling blue waters of our Australian coastline. Its name comes from the Latin word for “seawater,” it’s easy to see why—this gem’s cool blue to greenish-blue hues are as refreshing as a dip in the ocean. Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, known for its excellent clarity and often impressive size. For centuries, it’s been a symbol of calm, clarity, and courage, making it a meaningful choice for custom jewellery and a favourite among our clients here in Kiama and beyond.
A dress ring featuring a designer cut light blue aquamarine as well as smaller diamonds and Ceylon sapphires.
Where Does Aquamarine Come From?
While aquamarine is found in several places worldwide, Brazil is the most famous source, producing some truly spectacular stones. Other countries like Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, and even Australia also produce beautiful aquamarines. The most prized gems are those with an intense sky blue colour, sometimes called “Santa Maria” aquamarines after the legendary (and now nearly depleted) Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil.
A bespoke aquamarine dress ring featuring a blue-green coloured aquamarine and diamond halo.
Aquamarine in Custom Jewellery
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and the traditional gift for 19th wedding anniversaries, making it a thoughtful and personal choice for special pieces. Thanks to its size and clarity, aquamarine is perfect for statement rings, elegant pendants, and dramatic earrings. Its hardness—7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale—makes it durable enough for everyday wear, especially when set and cared for properly. Whether you’re dreaming of a bespoke engagement ring or a show-stopping cocktail ring, aquamarine’s serene beauty is sure to stand out.
Three different aquamarine rings, each in a different coloured gold with varying shades of aqua.
Aquamarine Colour and Value
Aquamarine’s colour ranges from light blue to greenish blue. While greenish-blue stones were once the most popular, today’s favourite is a pure, intense sky blue. Most aquamarines on the market are heat-treated to remove green tones and achieve that sought-after hue—a completely accepted practice in the gem world. Larger aquamarines often display richer colour, and while big stones are common, the price per carat drops for overly large gems since they’re less practical for jewellery. Untreated, deeply coloured aquamarines are rare and fetch the highest prices.
FAQs About Aquamarine
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Aquamarine is the birthstone for March.
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Yes! With a hardness of 7.5 to 8, aquamarine is durable enough for rings, earrings, and pendants, especially with a secure setting and a little care.
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Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and take your jewellery off before heavy work or sports.
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Absolutely! We love helping clients design bespoke aquamarine rings, necklaces, and more. Contact us to start your custom design.
Ready to create something beautiful with aquamarine?
Book a complimentary consultation at our Kiama studio or online to explore our collection and design your own unique piece.
