Aquamarine is a greenish-blue to pale blue member of the beryl family (which also includes emerald) and is known for its delicate blue or blue-green colouring. The main sources include Brazil, USA, Africa, China and Pakistan. It's name is derived from the Latin "aqua marina" meaning “sea water”.

Aquamarine is a popular and robust stone with very good hardness (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale) and impressive lustre. It is the perfect hardness to use in everyday jewellery. It is found in large crystals and the highest quality gemstones have a very good clarity and transparency, as well as a bright blue colour with a touch of green.

Along with its name, aquamarine has some links to the water, one being the belief that it was used to calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea.

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March.

Read more about aquamarine in our gem guide.