Aquamarine is a stunning gemstone known for its beautiful blue hues, symbolizing tranquility and clarity. If you’re considering an aquamarine ring—whether for an engagement, anniversary, or personal indulgence—understanding the key factors that determine quality will help you make a wise and satisfying purchase.
Understanding Aquamarine
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family, sharing its mineral lineage with emeralds. Its name, derived from the Latin words for “water” and “sea,” perfectly captures its serene blue-green shades. Unlike emeralds, which are prized for their deep green tones and often included nature, aquamarines are typically clear with a soothing transparency that mimics calm ocean waters.
Key Characteristics
Aquamarine’s appeal lies in its color, clarity, and durability. It ranks between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear, though it still requires some care to prevent scratches. The finest specimens display a pure, medium-blue tone without gray or green undertones, though personal preference may lead you toward paler or deeper shades.
Evaluating Quality
When selecting an aquamarine, focus on color first, followed by clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Color
The most valuable aquamarines exhibit a vibrant, medium-blue hue. Stones with a deeper saturation, often referred to as “Santa Maria” aquamarines after the famous Brazilian mine, command higher prices. Lighter blue stones are more common and affordable, while those with greenish or grayish tints are generally less desirable.
View the stone under various lighting conditions to ensure the color remains consistent. Natural daylight will reveal its truest tone, while indoor lighting can sometimes alter its appearance.
Clarity
High-quality aquamarines are usually eye-clean, meaning no visible inclusions to the naked eye. While minor internal flaws are acceptable under magnification, avoid stones with noticeable cracks, clouds, or imperfections that detract from their brilliance.
Cut
A well-executed cut enhances the stone’s natural sparkle. Popular shapes include emerald, oval, and round cuts, each offering a different aesthetic. An emerald cut emphasizes clarity and elegance, while a round or oval cut maximizes light reflection for added brilliance. Poorly cut stones may appear dull or display a “window” effect where light passes straight through instead of reflecting back.
Carat Weight
Aquamarines are available in a wide range of sizes, and larger stones often show color more intensely. However, size should not come at the expense of quality. A smaller stone with excellent color and clarity will often outshine a larger, lower-grade one.
Natural vs. Treated Aquamarine
Most aquamarines on the market have undergone heat treatment to improve their color. This is a standard and accepted practice that produces stable, beautiful results. Naturally vivid blue stones without treatment are rare and command premium prices.
Be wary of dyed or irradiated aquamarines, as these treatments are less stable and may fade over time. Always ask whether the stone has been treated and request documentation if available.
Choosing the Right Setting
The metal and setting you choose will influence both the ring’s appearance and durability.
Metal Options
White gold and platinum complement aquamarine’s cool blue tones, creating a sleek, modern look. Yellow gold and rose gold offer a warm contrast, lending a vintage or romantic feel. Sterling silver is a budget-friendly option but lacks the durability of gold or platinum for everyday wear.
Setting Styles
A solitaire setting highlights the aquamarine’s beauty in a simple, timeless design. Halo settings, which surround the center stone with smaller diamonds, add extra sparkle and can make the aquamarine appear larger. Three-stone rings symbolize the past, present, and future, while bezel settings provide added protection by encircling the stone with metal.
For active lifestyles, consider a secure setting with sturdy prongs or a bezel to prevent damage.
Durability and Care
While aquamarine is relatively hard, it still requires proper care to maintain its beauty. Clean it gently with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine. Remove the ring during activities that could expose it to knocks or abrasions, and store it separately to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
Unlike emeralds, aquamarines do not require oiling, making them easier to maintain over time.
Certification and Authenticity
Always purchase from a reputable jeweler who provides a gemstone certification from a recognized laboratory such as the GIA, AGS, or EGL. This ensures the stone’s natural origin, any treatments it may have undergone, and an accurate assessment of its quality.
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve synthetic stones or misleading descriptions.
Budget Considerations
Aquamarine prices vary widely based on quality. Pale, smaller stones may cost as little as 50 percarat, while vivid blue, high−clarity stones can range from 200 to over $1,000 per carat. Rare, untreated specimens with exceptional color command the highest prices.
Focus on finding the best balance between size and quality within your budget. A smaller, brighter stone often makes a more striking impression than a larger, dull one.
Where to Buy
Purchasing from a trusted jeweler—whether in person or online—ensures you receive a quality stone with reliable documentation. Established online retailers like Blue Nile and James Allen offer extensive selections and detailed imagery, while local jewelers allow you to see the stone in person before buying.
Avoid unverified sellers on social media or flea markets, where authenticity and quality can be uncertain.
Final Checklist
Before making your purchase, ask yourself:
- Does the color appeal to me in different lighting?
- Is the stone free of visible flaws?
- Has it been certified by a reputable lab?
- Is the setting secure and well-crafted?
- Does the seller offer a return policy?
Conclusion
An aquamarine ring is a timeless and elegant choice, offering both beauty and symbolism. By prioritizing color, clarity, and cut, and selecting a setting that suits your lifestyle, you can find a piece that will bring joy for years to come. Whether you prefer the delicate hue of a pale blue stone or the deep richness of a Santa Maria aquamarine, your perfect ring awaits with the right knowledge and care.
Related Topics:
- What is The Price of Aquamarine Per Carat?
- What Is Aquamarine Silver
- What is a Real Aquamarine Ring?
