Aquamarine blue diamonds are among the rarest and most beautiful gemstones in the world. Their stunning blue color reminds people of the ocean and the sky. These diamonds are highly valued for their rarity, brilliance, and unique color.
What Is an Aquamarine Blue Diamond?
Aquamarine blue diamonds are natural diamonds with a blue color. Unlike regular white diamonds, they get their color from trace elements inside the stone. The most common element is boron, which gives diamonds a blue hue.
The term “aquamarine” refers to a light blue or blue-green shade, similar to the color of seawater. However, not all blue diamonds are aquamarine. Some are deep blue (like the famous Hope Diamond), while others are very light. Aquamarine blue diamonds fall in the middle—not too dark, not too light.
Key Features of Aquamarine Blue Diamonds
- Color: Light to medium blue, sometimes with a slight green tint.
- Rarity: Much rarer than white diamonds.
- Hardness: Diamonds are the hardest natural material (10 on the Mohs scale).
- Brilliance: They sparkle brightly when cut well.
How Are Aquamarine Blue Diamonds Formed?
Natural blue diamonds form deep inside the Earth, under extreme heat and pressure. Here’s how it happens:
Carbon Crystals Form – Diamonds are made of pure carbon. Over millions of years, carbon atoms bond together under high pressure.
Boron Adds Blue Color – When boron atoms mix with carbon, they absorb red and yellow light, making the diamond appear blue.
Volcanic Eruptions Bring Them to the Surface – Most blue diamonds are found in ancient volcanic rocks called kimberlite pipes.
Because boron is rare in the Earth’s mantle, blue diamonds are much harder to find than white diamonds.
Grading Aquamarine Blue Diamonds
Gemologists (gem experts) grade blue diamonds based on four main factors:
Color (Most Important Factor)
The color of a blue diamond is described by three things:
- Hue – The main color (blue, green-blue, gray-blue).
- Tone – How light or dark the color is.
- Saturation – How strong the color is.
The most valuable aquamarine blue diamonds have a pure blue hue with no gray or green tints.
Clarity
Like all diamonds, blue diamonds can have internal flaws (inclusions). The fewer flaws, the higher the value. However, some inclusions can create unique patterns.
Cut
A good cut maximizes the diamond’s sparkle. Popular cuts for blue diamonds:
- Round Brilliant – Best for maximum shine.
- Cushion Cut – Enhances color.
- Emerald Cut – Shows clarity and color.
Carat Weight
Larger blue diamonds are extremely rare. A 1-carat aquamarine blue diamond is much more expensive than a 1-carat white diamond.
Famous Aquamarine Blue Diamonds
Some of the most famous blue diamonds in history include:
The Hope Diamond (Deep Blue, Not Aquamarine)
- Weight: 45.52 carats
- Color: Deep blue
- History: Believed to be cursed, now in the Smithsonian Museum.
The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond
- Weight: 31.06 carats
- Color: Fancy deep grayish-blue
- Sold for: $24.3 million in 2008.
The Blue Moon Diamond
- Weight: 12.03 carats
- Color: Vivid blue
- Sold for: $48.4 million in 2015 (world record per carat).
While these are not aquamarine blue, they show how rare and valuable blue diamonds can be.
How Much Do Aquamarine Blue Diamonds Cost?
Blue diamonds are among the most expensive gemstones. Prices depend on:
- Color intensity (stronger blue = higher price)
- Size (larger = much more expensive)
- Clarity and cut
Estimated Price Ranges (Per Carat)
- Light Blue: 50,000−150,000
- Medium Blue (Aquamarine): 150,000−500,000
- Vivid Blue: Over $1 million per carat
For example, a 2-carat aquamarine blue diamond could cost $300,000 or more.
Aquamarine Blue Diamond vs. Blue Sapphire
Many people confuse blue diamonds with blue sapphires. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Aquamarine Blue Diamond | Blue Sapphire |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 10 (Hardest) | 9 (Very hard) |
| Color Source | Boron | Iron & Titanium |
| Rarity | Extremely rare | Less rare |
| Price | Much higher | More affordable |
| Brilliance | More sparkle | Less sparkle |
If you want the rarest and most brilliant blue gem, a blue diamond is the best choice.
How to Buy an Aquamarine Blue Diamond
Buying a blue diamond is a big investment. Follow these tips:
Get a Certificate
Always ask for a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certificate. This proves the diamond is natural and graded correctly.
Check the Color
View the diamond in different lights (natural, LED, fluorescent) to see its true color.
Choose the Right Setting
White gold or platinum settings enhance blue diamonds. Yellow gold can make them look greenish.
Buy from Reputable Sellers
Stick to trusted jewelers or auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s.
Caring for Your Aquamarine Blue Diamond
To keep your diamond looking perfect:
- Clean it gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
- Avoid harsh chemicals (bleach, chlorine).
- Store it separately to prevent scratches.
- Get professional check-ups every year.
Conclusion
Aquamarine blue diamonds are some of the most stunning and rare gems in the world. Their beautiful color, incredible sparkle, and extreme rarity make them a dream for collectors and jewelry lovers.
If you ever have the chance to own or wear one, you’ll be holding a true treasure of nature.
Related Topics:
- The Timeless Elegance of a Diamond and Aquamarine Eternity Ring
- The Timeless Elegance of Diamond and Aquamarine Engagement Rings
- The Allure of the Aquamarine Ring: A Timeless Treasure in the Diamond Store
