These earrings feature smooth, polished aquamarine beads that softly glow with a blue hue, reminiscent of the clear waters of a tropical paradise.
The beads are wrapped with antiqued copper wire, which is fashioned into a swirling oval shape that gently sways and catches the light with every movement.
The earrings are finished with hammered and antiqued shepherd hooks that are handmade from copper. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, these aquamarine earrings are sure to make a statement.
Aquamarine is a blue or blue-green variety of the mineral beryl, which belongs to the silicate mineral family. Beryl is composed of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate and is typically found in granitic and pegmatitic rocks.
Aquamarine’s distinctive blue colour is caused by trace amounts of iron ions within the crystal structure of the mineral. The intensity of the blue colour can vary depending on the amount of iron present in the crystal. Aquamarine’s colour can also be enhanced by heating, which can cause it to turn more blue.
Aquamarine typically forms in pegmatite veins, which are large, coarse-grained intrusive rocks. These veins form when hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through cracks and fractures in the surrounding rock, depositing minerals as they cool and solidify. Aquamarine can also be found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, where it forms through the recrystallization of pre-existing beryl.
Aquamarine crystals can grow quite large, with some specimens reaching several feet in length. The crystal habit of aquamarine is typically prismatic, with elongated hexagonal or triangular cross-sections. The crystal faces can be smooth or have striations, and the crystal terminations are often pyramidal.
Aquamarine is prized as a gemstone and has a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, making it a durable and long-lasting stone. The largest producer of aquamarine is Brazil, but it can also be found in other countries such as Madagascar, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Overall, aquamarine is a fascinating and valuable mineral that has captured the attention of geologists, gemologists, and jewellery enthusiasts alike.
