Imagine the calming hues of a clear tropical sea—tranquil, soothing, endlessly enchanting. That’s the timeless appeal of aquamarine, the dazzling blue gemstone long associated with courage, clarity, and harmony. As one of the most cherished members of the beryl family, aquamarine continues to captivate jewellery lovers with its oceanic charm and radiant transparency.
At Prins and Prins, we specialise in transforming these beautiful stones into bespoke jewellery pieces that speak to your personal style and story. In this blog post, we explore aquamarine’s fascinating origin, symbolism, care tips, and why it’s a standout choice for engagement rings and custom-designed jewellery.
Where Does Aquamarine Come From? A Glimpse into Its Origins
Aquamarine is a variety of the beryl mineral species—just like emerald—but is distinguished by its unique sea-blue to greenish-blue hues. The name “aquamarine” comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “seawater,” a tribute to its mesmerising colour.
This beautiful gemstone forms in pegmatites, coarse-grained igneous rocks, where it grows over millions of years under high pressure and temperature. Today, some of the finest aquamarines are sourced from:
Brazil – the world’s leading supplier, known for large, clean crystals.
Nigeria, Pakistan, and Madagascar – offering stones with excellent colour and clarity.
Mozambique and Zambia – emerging sources of high-quality material.
These natural origins mean that every aquamarine gem tells a story written by the Earth itself.
📌 Did you know? According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), aquamarine often forms in large, flawless crystals—making it perfect for dramatic, eye-catching jewellery.
A Gem Steeped in Myth and Meaning
Historically, aquamarine was revered by ancient sailors as a talisman for protection and safe passage across stormy seas. Romans believed it absorbed the atmosphere of young love, making it a powerful symbol of harmony and renewal in marriage.
Today, aquamarine is associated with:
Calmness and clarity – ideal for those seeking inner peace and focus.
Courage and communication – often gifted to encourage open dialogue and compassion.
Birthstone for March – a thoughtful gift for those born in early spring.
19th Wedding Anniversary – symbolising a love that has weathered the waves of time.
Its subtle elegance and rich lore make aquamarine a meaningful addition to any jewellery collection.
Colour, Clarity, and Character: What Makes Aquamarine Special?
Aquamarine’s appeal lies in its distinct blue hues, ranging from pale sky blue to deeper, more intense shades. The finest stones display a pure blue to slightly greenish-blue tone with exceptional transparency.
Some key features include:
Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Lustre: Vitreous (glass-like), giving it a brilliant sparkle.
Clarity: Most aquamarine gems are eye-clean and often cut in step or emerald cuts to enhance their clarity.
Heat treatment is commonly used to remove greenish tones and enhance the blue, a stable and permanent enhancement widely accepted in the gem trade.
Aquamarine in Jewellery: A Cool Classic for Every Occasion
Whether set in yellow gold for vintage charm or paired with platinum for modern sophistication, aquamarine adapts effortlessly to any design aesthetic. At Prins and Prins, our master goldsmiths create handcrafted pieces that elevate this serene gemstone into heirloom-quality jewellery.
Popular aquamarine jewellery styles include:
Engagement rings – a refreshing alternative to diamonds, symbolising clear communication and loyalty.
Pendants and earrings – ideal for bridal wear or elegant everyday use.
Statement cocktail rings – perfect for special occasions with larger aquamarine gems.
Our in-house gemmologists ensure each aquamarine is hand-selected for colour, cut, and brilliance before it’s custom-set in your chosen design.
How to Care for Aquamarine Jewellery
To keep your aquamarine looking as clear and luminous as the day it was set, follow these easy care tips:
Clean regularly using lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as intense heat may damage treated stones.
Store separately from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires to avoid scratches.
Remove before heavy activities or contact with harsh chemicals (e.g., bleach or chlorine).
With the right care, aquamarine jewellery will continue to enchant for generations.
Explore Aquamarine with Prins and Prins
From ancient maritime legends to modern-day engagement rings, aquamarine’s journey is as rich as its beauty. Its unique combination of tranquil elegance, durability, and symbolism makes it a standout choice for both bespoke and classic jewellery.
At Prins and Prins, we are proud to offer ethically sourced aquamarines of the highest calibre, set in timeless designs that celebrate your most precious moments.
✨ Ready to design your custom aquamarine piece?
Visit our showroom in Cape Town or book a consultation with one of our jewellery experts today.
Sources:
Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Aquamarine. Available at: https://www.gia.edu/aquamarine
International Gem Society (IGS). Aquamarine Gemstone Information. Available at: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/aquamarine-gemstone-information/
American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). Aquamarine Education. Available at: https://www.agta.org/education/gemstone-guide/aquamarine
Prins and Prins Jewellers are proud members of the South African Jewellery Council, ensuring ethical sourcing and expert craftsmanship in every piece.
