Aquamarine, even the name conjures up the mystery of the gemstone that ancient mariners believed would protect them at sea and bring calm waters. The beauty of this gemstone is the green-blue to blue variety of the mineral beryl, usually a clear gem with no inclusions. The crystal formation is hexagonal and can grow into large crystals big enough to cut into jewelry. Origins: Brazil: The most abundant source for Aquamarine is from Brazil, in the state of Minas-Gerais, where it is found in pegmatites. Siberia: First documented discovery in 1723 where abundant sources were mined. The most being in 1796. More than seventy kilograms of gem-quality aquamarine was mined that year. United States: Early in the 20th century Individuals could hike the mountains and find fragments on the ground without digging. Colorado had an abundant source of deposits at one time but with mining and tourism, not so much. California has some small veins that don't produce high yields and now have become tourist attractions where one can go and see old mine camps and play prospector for a day. We invite you to visit one of our three locations to see our collections of aquamarine jewelry.
|
TouchstoneLearn more about minerals & fossils. Categories |