Aquamarine Versus Emerald

Jewellery is not made from only silver, gold, and diamonds. Gemstones are highly sought-after and make for beautifully designed and eye-catching pieces, too.

When it comes to gemstones, there are a multitude of options to choose from, from rubies and sapphires to amber and jade, to name a few. Among this wide array of possibilities are emeralds and aquamarine stones. 

Comparing Aquamarines and Emeralds

While the two might resemble one another at first glance, there are many differences between them. Here are some you should know:

 

Colour 

When it comes to distinguishing between aquamarine and emerald, colour plays a huge factor. While the stone in real emerald jewellery is deep, vibrant, and rich green, an aquamarine is pale blue and a softer hue. An aquamarine often lacks any visible flaws.

 

Rating on the Hardness Scale 

Emeralds rate anywhere between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, whereas aquamarine gemstones rate between 7.5 and 8.5. This makes aquamarines more durable and less prone to scratches or chips.

While emeralds are more susceptible to scratches, it should not stop you from wearing your emeralds every day. With proper care, emeralds can withstand the wear and tear that comes from routine activities.

If you own emeralds, be mindful not to expose them to sudden temperature changes, including extreme heat. Properly storing your jewellery away from other pieces will also help prevent them from rubbing against one another and causing scratches. 

While emeralds are fairly durable, properly caring for them will help prolong their lifetime. Regularly cleaning emeralds is important, but so is opting for a simple yet effective cleaning method such as a damp cloth and mild soap. Emeralds are fairly susceptible to damage from exposure to harsh chemicals and heat, so avoid using cleaning solutions and steam machines.

 

Cost of Aquamarine Versus Emerald

It goes without saying that emeralds are more expensive than aquamarine gemstones. Emeralds are rarer than aquamarines, and aquamarines often have their colour treated to enhance its vibrancy and clarity. Of course, this is not to say that aquamarines are not valuable or rare, but it is not nearly as rare or sought after by enthusiasts and collectors as emeralds are. 

 

Aquamarine and Emerald Birthstones

Most gemstones are associated with a certain meaning. While emeralds are the birthstone for the month of May, the stone is also associated with prosperity, harmony, hope, luxury, and royalty. 

On the other hand, the aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is associated with the ocean, peace, and tranquillity. 

 

Finding a Great Source of Gemstones

Holloway Diamonds takes pride in its extensive collection of both aquamarine and emerald stones. Whether you are looking for earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, or custom-made engagement rings, give us a call to set up an appointment at our Melbourne showroom or virtually online, and let Holloway Diamonds help you find the perfect jewellery piece!

Unsure if a scratched emerald can be repaired? Check out our latest post.