Aquamarine is the blue/green form of the mineral beryl. Aquas occur in most of the gem sources around the world and the biggest supplier is Brazil.

Color is the primary value setting characteristic for aquamarine. Stones are often quite large and aquamarines are usually free of inclusion. The optimum color is a clear sky-blue.

Aquamarines are regularly heat treated to enhance the color. This treatment is undetectable and permanent and is considered customary in the trade.

Aquamarine is generally accepted as the birthstone for March.