Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a gemstone known for its delicate blue-to-blue-green color, reminiscent of the tranquil waters of the sea. It belongs to the Beryl family and often exhibits excellent clarity and transparency. Aquamarine is valued for its soothing hue and association with calmness, clarity, and harmony. It is typically faceted to maximize its brilliance and sparkle, although it can also be found in cabochon cuts or polished beads. Aquamarine's serene color and natural beauty make it a popular choice for fine jewelry and everyday accessories.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, characterized by its pale blue to blue-green coloration, reminiscent of the clear waters of the sea. It has a hexagonal crystal structure and typically exhibits excellent transparency and clarity. Aquamarine possesses a vitreous luster when polished and is relatively hard, making it suitable for use in jewelry. Chemically, Aquamarine is composed primarily of beryllium, aluminum, and silicon, with trace amounts of iron responsible for its color. Aquamarine is valued for its beauty, durability, and soothing color, making it a prized gemstone in various applications.

Geology & Geography

Aquamarine is commonly found in the New Angeles Mines, with a notable abundance discovered in the Crystal Grotto, a concealed underground chamber accessible through the extensive network of tunnels within the mines. The Crystal Grotto provides an optimal environment for the formation of Aquamarine, with its unique conditions contributing to the gemstone's distinct color and clarity. This chamber is renowned for its breathtaking display of crystals, including a significant abundance of Aquamarine specimens, making it a prominent source for this exquisite gemstone.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Aquamarine is used in everyday life for ornamental purposes and jewelry making. Its delicate blue to blue-green hue makes it a popular choice for crafting earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets that evoke the tranquility of the sea. Aquamarine jewelry is often worn as a fashion statement. Additionally, Aquamarine may be used in home decor, such as in decorative objects or as polished stones placed in bowls or vases to add a serene accent to living spaces. Aquamarine is valued for its association with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance in the realm of magic. It is believed to possess qualities that can soothe the mind, enhance communication, and promote harmony. As such, Aquamarine may be incorporated into magical items such as talismans, amulets, or charms designed to promote peace and serenity. Aquamarine may also be used in potions or elixirs intended to calm emotions, enhance intuition, or facilitate communication with the spirit realm. Its gentle energy and soothing color make it a versatile and valuable gemstone for magical practitioners seeking to harness its tranquil energies. Affinities

Cleansing

Intuition

Prophecy

Serenity

Spirit Realms

Soothing

Water

Refinement

Aquamarine can be used in its natural state, but it often undergoes some degree of refinement before being used in jewelry or magical items. In its raw form, Aquamarine may contain impurities or irregularities that affect its appearance and suitability for use in crafting. Therefore, cutting and polishing Aquamarine is a common practice to enhance its clarity, color, and overall beauty. This process reveals the gemstone's natural brilliance and ensures it meets the quality standards for jewelry making or magical applications. Additionally, Aquamarine may be faceted or shaped into various forms to maximize its visual appeal and energetic properties, depending on the intended use of the final product.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Aquamarine is sold by the Crystal Guild, which refines the raw stones obtained from the Miners Guild. Following the refinement process, Aquamarine is made available for purchase in the Crystal Guild's shops throughout our realm's five cities. While Aquamarine possesses inherent beauty and positive associations, it is typically considered a semi-precious gemstone rather than a luxury item. Nonetheless, its serene color and natural elegance make it a sought-after choice for individuals seeking refined yet accessible jewelry pieces or magical items.

Storage

Aquamarine is typically stored with care to preserve its beauty and integrity. Loose Aquamarine gems may be kept in individual compartments within a jewelry box or stored in small pouches to prevent scratching or damage. Larger specimens or finished jewelry pieces are often displayed on padded trays or stands to showcase their brilliance while ensuring they remain protected. Storing Aquamarine away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures is essential to prevent fading or other damage to the gemstone.