AQUAMARINE
Aquamarines are part of the beryl family. They are the blue variety of it. The element that gives aquamarine its color is iron. The name beryl originates from the Greek. The name "beryl" comes from the word "berylos" and the Latin word "beryllus" and has remained in use through the present day. The word is the basis for the German word for "eyeglasses."
Aquamarine, Brazil (14.62 ct)
Class: silicates
Genesis: pegmatites (magma)
Colors: blue, pink, yellow, green
Hardness: 8
Optical effects: Rare cat-eye effect
Most important deposits: Brazil, Mozambique, Nigeria, Afghanistan (aquamarines are formed in pegmatite areas)
As early as the Middle Ages, beryl was pounded and polished in such a manner that it could serve as "magnifying glasses." In a time when paper was scarce and letters had to be written closely, this was essential.
Aquamarine means "sea water-colored."
Aquamarine "Santa Maria," Brazil (24.19 ct)
The interesting thing here is that the blue beryls that are worthy of grinding are found in pegmatites. The deposits are constantly declining, even in the primary source, Brazil, such that the raw material is tight and prices are rising. Mozambique and Nigeria are also producing ever-smaller quantities with high quality.
Deutsches Edelsteinhaus DEH GmbH
Chief Executive Officers: Alexander Streeb, Oliver Kleimaier
Commercial Register Number: HRB 737047
