Aquamarine Natural Stone: Origin, Mineral Structure, Areas of Use and Price Differences

Aquamarine is a precious natural stone known for its bright blue and greenish blue hues. It takes its name from the Latin word "aqua marina" meaning "sea water". This article examines where Aquamarine is mined, its mineral structure, areas of use and price differences.

Where is Aquamarine Stone Extracted?

Aquamarine stone can be found in various regions around the world. The major aquamarine deposits are located in Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, Nigeria and the USA. These regions are famous for their high quality aquamarine stones and contribute greatly to the world market.

• Brazil: The regions of Minas Gerais and Bahia have important mines where high-quality aquamarine stones are extracted.
• Madagascar: Known for its high quality and uniquely colored aquamarine stones.
• Pakistan: The Gilgit-Baltistan region is home to important aquamarine deposits.
• Russia: The Ural Mountains are one of the main places where aquamarine is mined.
• Nigeria: The Jos Plateau region is an important area where aquamarine stones are mined.
• USA: Colorado and California are the main places where aquamarine is mined.

Mineral Structure

Aquamarine is a stone belonging to the beryl mineral group and its chemical formula is Be3Al2Si6O18. The stone has characteristic blue and greenish blue tones, and these colors are due to iron (Fe) isotopes in the stone. Aquamarine crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system and has a hardness of 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. These features make the stone durable and suitable for jewelry making.

Areas of Use of Aquamarine Stone

Aquamarine is widely used in various jewelry and ornaments due to its aesthetic and durable properties. Here are some types of jewelry in which Aquamarine is used:

• Necklace: Aquamarine necklaces are popular jewelry that showcase the stone's bright colors and natural beauty.
• Ring: Aquamarine rings are often used with precious metals such as silver or gold.
• Earrings: Aquamarine earrings are among the jewelry that highlights the natural beauty of the stone.
• Bracelet: Aquamarine bracelets are preferred accessories for both daily use and special occasions.
• Prayer beads: Aquamarine prayer beads are used for both spiritual and aesthetic purposes.

Price Differences

The price of aquamarine stone varies depending on various factors. These factors include the color, clarity, cut, carat weight and source of the stone. Here are the main factors that affect aquamarine prices:

• Color: The most valuable aquamarine stones are those with an intense and homogeneous blue color. The intensity of the color increases the value of the stone.
• Clarity: Aquamarine stones that are clear and without internal inclusions are in greater demand and hence sell for higher prices.
• Cut: Professionally cut and polished aquamarine stones are more valuable because they reflect light better.
• Carat Weight: Larger and heavier aquamarine stones generally command higher prices than smaller stones.
• Source: High-quality aquamarine stones from areas such as Brazil, Madagascar and Pakistan are often more valuable than those from other sources.

Conclusion

Aquamarine stone is a valuable natural stone with its bright blue colors and durability. This stone, which is extracted from various regions around the world, is widely used in jewelry and ornaments with its aesthetic and physical properties. Its chemical structure and physical properties make Aquamarine a sought-after stone in jewelry making. Aquamarine stone, whose price varies depending on color, clarity, cut, carat weight and source, has a valuable place both in jewelry making and in collections.