Updated as of June 2026
Aquamarine
Named for seawater and linked to calm, courage, and safe travel, once carried by sailors for protection.
Price range$30 to $600/ct
Hardness (Mohs)7.75
ColorsBlue, Blue-green, Pale blue
BirthstoneMarch
AltGems Score How we score
6.8/10
Aquamarine pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 7.75) for everyday wear
- A recognized birthstone (March)
Cons
- Commonly treated (heat treatment (to deepen blue))
- Quality varies widely, so compare before buying
Aquamarine is durable enough for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry of every kind.
Explore Aquamarine
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestAquamarine jewelry
Aquamarine ringsAquamarine engagement ringsAquamarine necklacesAquamarine pendantsAquamarine earringsAquamarine bracelets
Aquamarine by cut
Round AquamarineOval AquamarineEmerald Cut AquamarineCushion AquamarinePrincess AquamarinePear AquamarineAll cuts
Aquamarine ring styles
Aquamarine solitaire ringAquamarine halo ringAquamarine three stone ringAquamarine hidden halo ringAquamarine vintage and antique ringAquamarine bezel ringAll styles
Aquamarine by metal
Aquamarine in yellow goldAquamarine in white goldAquamarine in rose goldAquamarine in platinumAquamarine in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe but avoid prolonged heat.
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Where to buy Aquamarine: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Aquamarine?
Named for seawater and linked to calm, courage, and safe travel, once carried by sailors for protection. It rates 7.75 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in blue, blue-green, pale blue.
How much does Aquamarine cost?
Aquamarine typically runs about $30 to $600 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Aquamarine price guide for detail.
Is Aquamarine good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 7.75 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Aquamarine?
Aquamarine earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Aquamarine?
Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe but avoid prolonged heat.