The beryl family includes some of the most beautiful and diverse gemstones in jewellery. From the oceanic blue of aquamarine to the pastel pink of morganite and the golden glow of heliodor, beryls offer a spectrum of colours and styles prized in both modern and antique settings. This page explores aquamarine alongside its lesser-known siblings—morganite, heliodor, and goshenite.
What Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of the beryl family. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “sea water,” and its colour echoes the tranquil tones of the ocean. Aquamarine has been treasured since antiquity and is especially popular in Edwardian and Art Deco jewellery.
Gemstone Characteristics: Aquamarine
- Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale
- Toughness: Good
- Lustre: Vitreous
- Colour: Pale to deep blue, sometimes with greenish tones
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
Common Cutting Styles: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is often cut into emerald shapes, ovals, or step cuts that enhance its clarity and transparent quality. The clean lines of these cuts were particularly favoured during the early 20th century.
What Are Other Beryls?
While emerald and aquamarine are the best-known beryls, the family also includes several lesser-known but equally beautiful gemstones:
- Morganite: A soft pink to peach variety of beryl, associated with love and often used in romantic jewellery designs.
- Heliodor: A golden yellow beryl whose name means “gift of the sun.” It symbolises warmth and clarity.
- Goshenite: A colourless beryl with exceptional clarity, often used as a diamond simulant in the past.
Gemstone Characteristics: Other Beryls
- Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale
- Toughness: Good
- Lustre: Vitreous
- Colour: Pink (morganite), yellow (heliodor), colourless (goshenite)
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
Common Cutting Styles: Other Beryls
These gems are usually cut in mixed brilliant or step styles to enhance their transparency and colour. Morganite is often seen in oval or cushion shapes, while heliodor may be cut into baguettes or emerald shapes. Goshenite is typically faceted in brilliant or step cuts to maximise sparkle.
Use in Antique and Vintage Jewellery
Aquamarine featured prominently in Edwardian and Art Deco rings, necklaces, and brooches, often paired with platinum or white gold. Its pale blue hue made it ideal for elegant and restrained settings. Other beryls like heliodor and morganite became more popular in the early 20th century and were especially favoured for their pastel tones and subtle elegance. Goshenite occasionally appears in Georgian and Victorian pieces as a substitute for diamonds.
Is Aquamarine Suitable for Everyday Wear?
Yes—thanks to its combination of good hardness and toughness, aquamarine is suitable for daily wear, especially in protective settings. Morganite and heliodor are equally wearable but may require more careful storage to preserve their colour and lustre.