How Expensive Are Aquamarines?

3

Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone known for its stunning blue color. It is a member of the beryl family, which also includes emeralds. Aquamarines are popular in jewelry, and their price can vary greatly depending on several factors. In this article, we will explore what makes aquamarines expensive, how their value is determined, and what you should know before buying one.

What is Aquamarine?

Aquamarine is a gemstone that ranges in color from light blue to deep blue-green. The name “aquamarine” comes from the Latin words “aqua” (water) and “marina” (sea), which means “water of the sea.” This name perfectly describes its ocean-like color. Aquamarine is a durable gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry like rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Why Are Aquamarines Expensive?

The price of aquamarines can range from affordable to very expensive. Some aquamarines cost just a few dollars per carat, while others can cost thousands of dollars per carat. The price depends on several factors, including color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and origin. Let’s break down each of these factors in detail.

Color: The Most Important Factor

The color of an aquamarine is the most important factor in determining its value. Aquamarines come in a range of blue shades, from pale blue to deep blue or blue-green. The most valuable aquamarines have a rich, intense blue color. These are often called “Santa Maria” aquamarines, named after the famous mines in Brazil that produce this highly sought-after color.

 Pale Blue Aquamarines: These are the most common and least expensive. They have a light, almost pastel blue color.

 Medium Blue Aquamarines: These are more valuable than pale blue stones. They have a stronger blue color that is more noticeable.

 Deep Blue Aquamarines: These are the rarest and most expensive. They have a vivid, saturated blue color that is highly desirable.

The color of an aquamarine can also be affected by heat treatment. Many aquamarines are heated to enhance their blue color and reduce greenish tones. This treatment is widely accepted in the jewelry industry and does not significantly affect the value of the stone.

Clarity: How Clear is the Stone?

Aquamarines are known for their excellent clarity. Most aquamarines are eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions (internal flaws) when viewed with the naked eye. This makes them highly desirable for jewelry.

 Eye-Clean Aquamarines: These are the most valuable. They are clear and free of visible inclusions.

 Slightly Included Aquamarines: These may have small inclusions that are visible under magnification but not to the naked eye. They are less expensive than eye-clean stones.

 Heavily Included Aquamarines: These have visible inclusions that affect their beauty and durability. They are the least expensive.

In general, the clearer the aquamarine, the higher its value. However, some inclusions, like “rain” or “fingerprint” inclusions, can add character to the stone and are sometimes appreciated by collectors.

Cut: The Shape and Quality of the Cut

The cut of an aquamarine refers to how the stone is shaped and polished. A well-cut aquamarine will have good proportions, symmetry, and polish, which enhance its brilliance and color.

 Popular Cuts: Aquamarines are often cut into oval, round, emerald, or pear shapes. These cuts maximize the stone’s color and clarity.

 Custom Cuts: Some aquamarines are cut into unique or fancy shapes, which can increase their value if done well.

 Poor Cuts: If an aquamarine is cut too shallow or too deep, it can lose its brilliance and appear dull. Poorly cut stones are less valuable.

The quality of the cut can significantly affect the price of an aquamarine. A well-cut stone will command a higher price than a poorly cut one, even if they have similar color and clarity.

Carat Weight: The Size of the Stone

Aquamarines are available in a wide range of sizes, from small stones of less than one carat to large stones of over 100 carats. The price of an aquamarine increases with its size, but larger stones are also rarer, which makes them more expensive per carat.

 Small Aquamarines (1-5 carats): These are the most common and affordable. They are often used in everyday jewelry like rings and earrings.

 Medium Aquamarines (5-20 carats): These are more valuable and are often used in statement pieces like pendants and cocktail rings.

 Large Aquamarines (20+ carats): These are rare and can be very expensive. They are often used in high-end jewelry or as collector’s items.

It’s important to note that the price per carat increases significantly for larger stones. For example, a 10-carat aquamarine will cost more per carat than a 5-carat stone of similar quality.

Origin: Where the Aquamarine is Mined

The origin of an aquamarine can also affect its value. Some locations are known for producing high-quality aquamarines with desirable colors and clarity.

 Brazil: Brazil is the most famous source of aquamarines. The Santa Maria mines in Brazil produce some of the finest deep blue aquamarines, which are highly prized.

 Madagascar: Madagascar is another important source of aquamarines. Stones from Madagascar often have a rich blue color and excellent clarity.

 Nigeria: Nigerian aquamarines are known for their unique blue-green color.

 Other Sources: Aquamarines are also found in countries like Mozambique, Zambia, and Pakistan. Stones from these locations can be beautiful but are generally less expensive than those from Brazil or Madagascar.

The origin of an aquamarine can add to its value, especially if it comes from a famous mine or region known for producing high-quality stones.

Treatments: Are Aquamarines Treated?