Aquamarine is a gemstone which is usually known as emerald"s most famous sister. It is a different colour variety of the mineral beryl. This is a beautiful and affordable gemstone found in a range of blue shades. Aquamarine is the birthstone of Pisces, from 18 February - 20 March. This gemstone is the anniversary stone for the 19th year of marriage.

Origin of Aquamarine
Madagascar is the historical source of aquamarine, but is no longer important as of now. A medium dark blue colour is the typical of stones that came from that area. Brazil is probably the most prolific supplier of aquamarine today. The name Aquamarine is derived from Latin words meaning sea and water. Therefore it can be said that the name `aquamarine` means sea water.

Appearance of Aquamarine
The natural colour of Aquamarine leans toward bluish-green. Comparing emerald and aquamarine, the latter is the tougher sister. It is usually free from the inclusions that make emerald more fragile. It is often step-cut i.e. emerald-cut to show its colour to best advantage.

Colours of Aquamarine
Aquamarines are usually found in a range of blue shades, from the palest pastel to greenish-blue to a deep blue. While the choice of colour is largely a matter of taste, the deeper blue gems are more rare. Aquamarine is a pastel gemstone, and while colour can be quite intense in larger gemstones. The smaller Aquamarines are often less vivid or bright. In its finest colour, aquamarine will be a rather dark blue, rivalling a nice medium blue sapphire. But they are rare and expensive. Sometimes the Blue Topaz is also sold as aquamarines, as blue topaz is much cheaper.

Varieties of Aquamarine
Aquamarine is pale greenish blue or bluish green variety of beryl. Beryl is a mineral composed of Beryllium Aluminium Silicate. Several varieties of beryl are valued as gemstones like aquamarine, emerald and heliodor. Aquamarine is the most common variety of gem beryl, it occurs in pegmatite, in which it forms much larger and clearer crystals than emerald. The highest quality aquamarine is transparent.

Benefits of Aquamarine
Curing ability of aquamarine is immense as this gemstone works against nerve pain, glandular problems, toothache and disorders of the neck, jaw and throat. It even strengthens liver and kidneys. Since ancient times, aquamarine has been believed to endow with courage, happiness and foresight. It helps to increase the level of intelligence and enhances youthfulness. It also helps to address the issue of anxiety and provides peace of mind. It is said that sailors often use this gemstone to prevent from seasickness.