AQUAMARINES

Aquamarine is always a shade of pastel blue, but darker, more saturated tones almost always cost more. Connoisseurs also prefer a pure blue, with no green in it. Stones with a tinge of green can be bought for less, and aren't necessarily less appealing to a consumer.

Because the color is generally pale, aquamarine should have a good clarity for maximum brilliance. These stones are often cut in ovals and emerald cuts. More saturated colors are unusual in small sizes: usually it takes some size for the color to hold in a darker shade. Flattering to almost any skin tone, aquamarine is a durable and lively gemstone that is appropriate for almost all jewelry occasions and wearers.

Aquamarines should never be cleaned with mechanical cleaners. However, warm water and mild soap can effectively remove oils and dirt, which can build up to dull aquamarine's blue color. Unlike emeralds, aquamarines are usually not treated with fillers, resins, or oils to reduce inclusions.

The advances of modern technology have made it possible, and very common, for aquamarine to be heat-treated to drive the green out of the stone and leave a more pleasing blue. This is a permanent treatment and has become accepted in the jewelry industry.
 

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