Aside from the better-known precious gemstones, there are plenty more beautiful and more affordable gemstones that are often overlooked. Here we discuss about aquamarines and amethysts for beginners.
Aquamarines and amethysts are stunning gemstones, with aquamarines offering a more valuable option and amethysts being less valuable but still stunning.
When you are next close to Hatton Garden Jewellers in London, have a browse and appreciate the beauty that these gemstones have to offer. So, let’s get into it and introduce you to aquamarines and amethysts as gemstones!
An Introduction To Aquamarines
are a pale blue variety of beryl and whilst aquamarines are not a precious gemstone, high quality aquamarines can be very valuable. Aquamarines vary in colour from a very pale light blue to a slightly darker blue, with clarity being one of the major factors in determining the value. They also score 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, contributing to the appeal, as they are suitable for daily wear when cared for properly!
Aquamarine can cost up to $500 per carat, proving that the highest quality can be very valuable, although slightly less so than precious alternatives like diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. One of the most iconic pieces of aquamarine jewellery was Princess Diana’s aquamarine ring that was worn to replace her vintage engagement ring from Prince Charles, which is thought to be worth around £100,000 today. The engagement ring is still worn by Kate Middleton and it caused a controversy that she had it altered.
Not only are aquamarines stunning, but their symbolism only adds to the value. Those who wear aquamarines are thought to benefit from tranquility, serenity, and harmony in their lives, as well as loyalty, hope and truth. The likeness of the gemstone to the sea also adds to its appeal because it seems to process the healing properties of the sea.
Although aquamarine is not a precious gemstone technically, it is certainly not far off and is highly appreciated alongside the different types of precious gemstones.
An Introduction To Amethysts
are not considered as a precious gemstone, although they are a beautiful and affordable alternative to the more expensive types of gemstones. This being said, amethysts often feature in expensive pieces of vintage jewellery, with the finest quality amethysts being exceptionally beautiful and valuable. Scoring a 7 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, amethysts are suitable for all jewellery types, as long as the wearer is aware of the slight limitations. For example, you should avoid excess exposure to water or extreme heat, although this is the case for the majority of gemstones.
These gemstones carry very calming and serene energies that are meant to help the wearer unwind and relax. If you want to feel soothed and relieved of anxiousness or nerves, this is what the amethyst is meant to achieve.
Amethysts are readily available and far less rare than the precious gemstones mentioned above in the modern day, meaning even those with a very deep, rich purple colour are less valuable than diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. However, the value for money and meaningful symbolism makes this a popular choice for those with an interest in adding different types of gemstones to their collection.
Final Thoughts on Aquamarines and Amethysts
When you are thinking about adding to your jewellery collection, these two beautiful gemstones should definitely be considered! It is easy to jump straight to the most famous gemstones, however these underappreciated beauties deserve to have their moment. Be careful to also check whether the gemstones you consider to purchase are lab-grown or natural as this will impact their price and quality. Read customer reviews before you make a gemstone purchase to be well-informed.
