How the Color of Aquamarine Affects its Value
Color is one of the most important factors in determining the value of an aquamarine. The ideal color of aquamarine is a strong “sky” blue. Aquamarine naturally has a characteristic called pleochroism, which gives it a 2-color appearance. Usually the colors are in the blue to green range. The most common (and therefore least valuable) color of aquamarine is a very light pale blue.
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| Low Value: This aquamarine is nearly colorless. We only get a hint of blue near the edges. It is almost so colorless it should be called “white beryl” instead. This is the least valuable color of aquamarine. | Med-Low Value: The aquamarine pictured here has a very pale blue color. Such a pale color will make it less valuable than if its color were stronger. | Medium Value: This aquamarine has a lovely color, though it is slightly pale and unusually green. A greenish aquamarine like this one can be interesting, but generally not as valuable as the brightest blue | Highest Value: This is the ideal color of aquamarine: bright, electric sky blue. Aquamarine gemstones of this color are hard to find and command top prices. |
