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.
