How to Pick an Aquamarine Birthstone

Aquamarine is the birthstone of choice for those who love the water. It is the color of the sea reflecting a sky-blue day, and is a durable and often flawless stone that is perfect for many jewelry settings. It is mined mainly in Brazil and China, and is widely available and moderately priced. Find out how to pick a quality stone that will last for generations.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Reputable dealer

Become a Savvy Consumer

1. Decide whether you wish to purchase treated or natural stones. Find out from the dealer whether your aquamarine has been enhanced or not. This disclosure is required by law.

2. View some unset gems to set your standards for color and brilliance. Color should be medium, rather than pale or dark. Brilliance should be judged by the amount of light jumping from the facets of the stone, rather than it being dull and lifeless.

3. Learn to judge clarity in aquamarines, which are different from other gemstones. Aquamarines should be bright and clear all over, without visible inclusions.

4. Compare pricing before you shop to buy, so you'll know if the stone in question is in the correct price range. The value of an aquamarine depends upon its rarity, color and brilliance.

Purchase an Aquamarine Birthstone

5. Find a dealer who is a member of a national or international gemstone trade association, such as the American Gem Society, which ranks members partially on ethics (see Resources below).

6. Pick various times of day or light settings in which to view the stone you want to buy. A single viewing under a bright jeweler's light won't simulate everyday conditions.

7. Pick an aquamarine stone or set of jewelry that "speaks" to you with light and true color.

Tips & Warnings

• Many gems are "enhanced," or treated with heat to improve color. Indeed, some stones do not reach their full color without heat treatment. It's a personal choice whether enhancement matters and should play a part in your buying decision.
• "Inclusions" are flaws that are darker than the overall color. These are natural and desirable in some gems, such as emeralds, and less desirable in aquamarines, due to their light hue.
• If you view an aquamarine birthstone with visible inclusions, keep looking. There are many flawless aquamarines out there.
• Avoid buying from a place that offers big discounts on everything. This can be a sign of poor dealer ethics.

Who Can Help:

• Are you tired of cakey makeup? Try RawMinerals Free.

Resources

• The American Gem Society for consumer buying advice and reputable dealers