Types of Aquamarine Gemstones ~ Based on Color and Quality

Four different types of Aquamarine gemstones are Blue Aquamarine, Brazil Aquamarine, Moss Aquamarine and Milky Aquamarine. These 'types' of Aquamarine stones are based on different colors and quality. In fact, in true gemological terms (the science of gemstones) there is only one classification of Aquamarine, and the various names are simply trade names and informal names.

Some of these names are based on the country or mine of origin for example Brazil Aquamarine, Madagascar Aquamarine and Santa Maria Aquamarine. Others are based on the types of inclusions such as Moss Aquamarine and Milky Aquamarine.

1. Blue Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the green-blue variety of the mineral beryl and is usually transparent and pale in color.

Naturally occurring Aquamarine tends to be greenish blue depending on the amount and type of iron which causes the blue and green hues. Traditionally Aquamarine is heated to remove the green tinges to produce a purer blue color and is a widely accepted practice. However, some people nowadays prefer the original slightly green tone.

Maxixe Aquamarine is also a type of beryl with a deep blue color caused by irradiation while in the earth. However, the color is unstable and fades over time once exposed to light. The stone can be irradiated manually again to produce the deep blue color; however, it will simply lose its intensity again.

2. Brazil Aquamarine

Brazil is the primary source of aquamarine gems and Brazil or Brazilian Aquamarines are very popular and described as bluish-green.

Santa Maria Aquamarine comes from a mine in Brazil known for a medium-dark tone and a highly saturated blue color.

Note that often gems with a particular color but from various sources, may still be referred to by the country or mine where that color variant was first discovered.

An interesting fact I came across is that the AAA grading is a system defined by individual companies and there is actually no official standard for grading Aquamarine.

3. Moss Aquamarine

Traditional high-quality Aquamarine is typically transparent with no inclusions. However as with all crystals there are deposits that will produce rough with internal inclusions due to the processes that occurred while forming. Although these are deemed lower quality, some people prefer more earthy, natural looking crystals and have become quite popular.

Moss Aquamarine is more greenish in color and has specks or threads of inclusions made up of other minerals.

4. Milky Aquamarine

Milky Aquamarine forms as an opaque or translucent gemstone. Light still goes through the stone but it is not totally transparent. These crystals tend to be pale blue in color, but are not as durable as pure Aquamarine and are usually carved into cabochons and not faceted in traditional cuts.

I could not find what causes the whitish appearance, if anyone knows please enlighten us in the comments, thank you.

Aquamarine Grading

Aquamarine, a member of the beryl family, is renowned for its beautiful blue to blue-green hues. The grading of aquamarine gemstones is primarily based on the "Four Cs": color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Each of these factors significantly influences the gemstone's overall quality and value.

Color is the most critical determinant in aquamarine grading. The most prized aquamarines exhibit a pure blue to blue-green color with strong to vivid saturation. Stones with a light to medium light tone and strong to vivid saturation are considered of higher quality. Conversely, aquamarines with pale colors or pronounced secondary hues, such as green or gray, are graded lower.

Clarity pertains to the presence of internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. High-quality aquamarines are typically eye-clean, meaning inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. Inclusions can affect the gemstone's transparency and brilliance, thereby impacting its value.

Cut refers to how well the aquamarine has been shaped and faceted. A well-executed cut enhances the gemstone's brilliance and overall aesthetic appeal. The cut should be symmetrical, with proportions that allow light to reflect optimally within the stone. An inferior cut can diminish the gemstone's visual appeal, regardless of its color and clarity.

Carat weight measures the size of the aquamarine. While larger stones are generally more valuable, the other Cs—particularly color and clarity—can have a more significant impact on the gemstone's overall quality and price. It's important to note that a smaller aquamarine with exceptional color and clarity can be more valuable than a larger stone with inferior qualities.

In the marketplace, aquamarines are often graded on a scale from GEM (or AAAA) to C, with GEM representing the highest quality. GEM-grade aquamarines possess a pure blue hue with strong to vivid saturation and high clarity. AAA-grade stones are similar but have slightly less intense color. AA-grade aquamarines may exhibit paler colors and more visible inclusions, while A-grade stones have noticeable inclusions and less desirable color. B and C grades are typically reserved for stones with significant inclusions and undesirable colors.

Understanding these grading criteria is essential for both consumers and professionals in the gemstone industry, as they directly influence the aquamarine's value and desirability.

Sources

• International Gem Society: www.gemsociety.org/article/aquamarine-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/
• International Gem Society: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/aquamarine-grading-and-pricing/
• Inspereza: https://www.inspereza.com/blogs/inspiration/grading-aquamarines-a-comprehensive-guide
• Geology.com: www.geology.com/gemstones/aquamarine/
• Gemological Institute of America: www.gia.edu/aquamarine-quality-factor

As you may know Aquamarine is the gemstone for March so these are the different varieties to choose from to gift to someone with a birthday in March.

Let us know in the comments if you have a special collection or piece of Aquamarine jewelry and what you think of these other types. *Mandy.

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