Transversal slice of aquamarine exposing the cross-section of the beryl crystal with its characteristic transparency. Available in 5 formats (35-40 mm long, 5-7 mm thick).
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Aquamarine (Beryl, hexagonal cyclosilicate) |
| Dimensions |
35-40 × 5-7 mm depending on format (see variants) |
| Shape and back |
Transversal slice, irregular natural perimeter, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished on both sides |
| Hardness |
7.5-8 Mohs — suitable for rings and pendants; we recommend a high-walled bezel setting to protect the edge |
| Origin |
Material acquired in lapidary wholesale market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece type |
Available in 5 formats selected by variant number |
This specific piece
The cross-section exposes the characteristic hexagonal section of beryl, with concentric layers of varying transparency reflecting the crystalline growth pattern.
The perimeter of each slice is the actual section of the hexagonal beryl prism, not an artificially carved outline.
Aquamarine as a mineral
Aquamarine is the blue-green variety of beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈).
For which setting it works
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Pendant with bezel in 925 silver — the irregular shape of the perimeter requires a custom bezel that the goldsmith builds to size. The result is a completely unique pendant that cannot be replicated with standard calibrated stones.
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Statement ring — the 7.5-8 Mohs hardness allows for regular use without risk of scratching. A high-walled bezel protects the natural edge of the slice from side impacts.
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Wire wrap — the uniform thickness makes it easy to hold the piece with silver or copper wire; in thinner slices, the wire can be seen through the mineral when backlit, creating an unprecedented visual effect.
Aquamarine in lapidary tradition
The name comes from the Latin aqua marina, "sea water", used by Pliny the Elder in the 1st century AD to describe these gems as "fragments of mermaids' treasure." Roman and Greek sailors wore carved aquamarine as a navigation amulet, and Julius Caesar owned an aquamarine sculpture depicting an Egyptian priest. In crystal tradition, aquamarine is associated with clarity of thought and the ability to communicate precisely in high-pressure situations — it is called the stone of the chronicler and the orator because it helps, according to tradition, to keep the mind clear when words have consequences.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine aquamarine
Authentic aquamarine exhibits uniform color with possible areas of greater intensity, but without abrupt transitions to white (if there are areas of less color, they correspond to the natural zonal growth of the crystal).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aquamarine genuine or could it be dyed glass?
The slices we offer are natural untreated beryl.
Can it be used in an everyday ring?
With a hardness of 7.5-8 Mohs, it is one of the most resistant gems in the catalog. We recommend a high-walled bezel to protect the irregular edge of the slice. In pendants and earrings, wear is practically negligible.
Is it heat-treated or irradiated?
No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Why does the tone vary between different slices?
Each variant comes from a different crystal or a different area of the same crystal. The concentration of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) is not uniform, which produces variations in tone between pale blue and sky blue.
Are the dimensions exact?
The indicated measurements have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm in any dimension.
How is it cared for?
Clean with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive products or prolonged ultrasonic cleaning. Store separately from harder minerals (diamond, topaz, corundum). See complete guide in jewelry care.
See also: complete cabochon collection · faceted gemstones.
