Aquamarine is the modern March birthstone. Aquamarine stones are the blue members of the mineral beryl, which the green varieties are known as emeralds.
Unlike their green cousins, aquamarines are typically nearly flawless. The buyer’s color preference varies by personal choice; from very light blue or greenish blue, on through vivid medium blue. The deeper colored Aquamarine stones have the highest value. Generally, the purer and more intense the blue color (with no greenish coloration), the more valuable the stone. However, a finely polished aquamarine of any color will have a very special diamond-like brilliance.
The Cut
Aquamarines can be cut in almost any shape, but they are often as emerald cuts or as round or oval brilliants.
Cleaning and Care
Aquamarine is a durable gemstone (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale). You will want to avoid any high-heat situation such as boiling water, but the color will remain the same even when exposed to light.
When it comes to the care and cleaning of aquamarine stones, use mild dish soap and a toothbrush or swab to clean the dust from behind the stone.