Aquamarine and turquoise are two of the most popular gemstones in the world, renowned for their striking blue-green colours and natural beauty. While they may look similar at first glance, there are several key differences between these two stones that can impact their appearance, durability, and value. If you’re considering purchasing a piece of jewellery featuring either aquamarine or turquoise, it’s important to understand these differences in order to make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll explore the distinctions between aquamarine and turquoise, including their unique properties, histories, and symbolism, to help you choose the perfect stone for your needs.
Aquamarine Gemstone
Behold the breathtaking beauty of aquamarine, a member of the illustrious beryl mineral family, boasting a pale blue or turquoise hue, attributed to the presence of iron in its crystal composition. This gemstone’s durability, rating 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, makes it a worthy option for jewellery aficionados. Hailing from diverse locations worldwide, such as Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States, the most sought-after varieties of aquamarine hail from Brazil, flaunting an enchanting blue-green shade. Its awe-inspiring aesthetics aside, aquamarine is believed to possess a multitude of benefits, including acting as a protective talisman for sailors in perilous seas, calming and soothing the mind, and improving mental clarity.
Aquamarine is a versatile gemstone used in various types of jewellery, including rings, necklaces, and earrings, and pairs well with other gems, such as diamonds, creating visually striking designs. Furthermore, with March as its birth month, aquamarine serves as a meaningful and cherished gift for those born in the same month. All in all, aquamarine stands as a highly valued gemstone, steeped in history and purposeful properties, emanating a serene energy, and making it a sought-after addition to any collection.
Turquoise Gemstone
Turquoise, a stunning blue-green gemstone composed of copper, aluminium, and phosphate, has captured the hearts of many for centuries. With origins in dry regions like the American Southwest, Iran, and Tibet, this mineral has been used for ornamental purposes and as a spiritual tool by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Native Americans.
Considered a protective stone, turquoise is thought to possess healing properties that help alleviate anxiety and depression, strengthen the immune, respiratory, and nervous systems, and foster creativity and intuition. To maintain its splendour, it’s vital to store it away from heat and chemicals and prevent it from direct sunlight. Overall, turquoise is a versatile gemstone that enhances one’s sense of calm and serenity, making it an excellent choice for both jewellery and spiritual practices.
Differences Between Aquamarine vs Turquoise
| Aquamarine gemstone | Turquoise gemstone |
| Benefits: According to Vedic astrology, Aquamarine is associated with the planet Saturn, which represents discipline, hard work, and karmic energies. It is believed that wearing an Aquamarine gemstone can bring stability and balance in one’s life, and help in achieving success and prosperity. The gemstone is also believed to possess healing properties and is said to have a positive effect on the respiratory and nervous systems. In Vedic astrology, gemstones are recommended based on an individual’s birth chart and the position of planets at the time of their birth. Aquamarine is particularly recommended for those born under the zodiac sign of Scorpio or those with Saturn in their birth chart. It is said to bring them good luck, protection, and success in their endeavours. Overall, Aquamarine is considered a powerful gemstone in Vedic astrology, with its unique properties believed to positively impact an individual’s life and bring about a sense of balance and harmony. | Benefits: Turquoise is a captivating gemstone that is often associated with the throat chakra, which is believed to be the centre of communication and self-expression. The throat chakra is located in the neck region and is responsible for our ability to communicate our thoughts, feelings, and ideas with others. In astrology, Turquoise is believed to have a profound effect on the throat chakra. Wearing this gemstone is said to help stimulate and balance the throat chakra, enhancing one’s ability to communicate effectively with others. It is believed to promote clear and articulate communication, which can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with public speaking or expressing themselves in social situations. Turquoise is also said to help individuals express their emotions more freely and confidently. It is believed to promote emotional intelligence, which can be helpful in building stronger and more meaningful relationships with others. It is said to encourage empathy and compassion, making it easier to connect with others on a deeper level. Beyond its effects on communication and self-expression, Turquoise is also believed to have physical healing properties. It is said to alleviate throat-related ailments such as sore throats, coughs, and tonsillitis. It is also believed to help with issues related to the ears, nose, and sinuses. |
| Ideal wearer: Aquamarine is a gemstone that is associated with the throat chakra, which is located in the neck and is believed to govern communication and self-expression. As such, Aquamarine is said to be beneficial for those who wish to improve their communication skills, express themselves more effectively, or reduce anxiety and stress associated with public speaking. It is also associated with the planet Saturn and is believed to promote discipline, hard work, and success. Therefore, those born under the zodiac signs of Scorpio, Capricorn, and Aquarius may find Aquamarine particularly beneficial. | Ideal wearer: Turquoise is a gemstone that is associated with the heart chakra, which is located in the chest and is believed to govern love, compassion, and emotional balance. As such, Turquoise is said to be beneficial for those who wish to cultivate love and compassion, overcome emotional blockages, or reduce stress and anxiety associated with relationships. It is also associated with the planet Venus and is believed to promote harmony, beauty, and creativity. Therefore, those born under the zodiac signs of Taurus, Libra, and Pisces may find Turquoise particularly beneficial. |
| Wearing rituals: In Vedic astrology, aquamarine is associated with the planet Saturn. It is believed to have a calming effect on Saturn’s energy and is said to help those born under the sign of Capricorn or those with a weak Saturn in their birth chart. Aquamarine is often worn as a ring or pendant, and it is recommended to wear it on the middle finger or the little finger of the right hand. This is believed to enhance its positive effects and reduce any negative influence from Saturn. Before wearing an aquamarine gemstone, it is important to perform certain rituals such as cleansing the gemstone with holy water and reciting specific mantras that are ‘Om Sham Shanicharaya Namah’. This is believed to activate the gemstone’s powers and ensure its effectiveness. | Wearing rituals: In Vedic astrology, turquoise is associated with the planet Jupiter. It is believed to enhance Jupiter’s positive influence and is said to bring good luck, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Turquoise is often worn as a ring, pendant, or bracelet, and it is recommended to wear it on the index finger or the ring finger of the right hand. This is believed to amplify its positive effects and strengthen its connection to Jupiter. Before wearing a turquoise gemstone, it is important to perform certain rituals such as energising the gemstone with specific mantras that are ‘Om Keshavaya Pannvendraya Namah’ and offering prayers to Jupiter. This is believed to activate the gemstone’s powers and ensure its effectiveness. |
| Value: Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family of minerals and is valued for its pale blue or turquoise colour, which is attributed to the presence of iron in its crystal structure. The most valuable Aquamarine gemstones have a vivid blue-green colour, and they come from Brazil. Aquamarine is a relatively durable gemstone, with a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Its value is influenced by several factors, including its colour, clarity, cut, and size. The larger and more vibrant the Aquamarine gemstone is, the higher its value is likely to be. In general, the price of Aquamarine ranges from a few dollars per carat to several thousand dollars per carat, depending on its quality. | Value: Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate mineral that is prized for its distinctive blue-green colour, which ranges from sky blue to greenish blue. The finest quality Turquoise comes from Iran and is known as “Persian Turquoise.” Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness rating of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it less durable than Aquamarine. Its value is influenced by several factors, including its colour, clarity, cut, and size. The most valuable Turquoise gemstones have a bright, even colour, without any dark veins or blotches. The price of Turquoise varies widely, depending on its quality, with some specimens commanding several hundred dollars per carat. |
| Rarity: Aquamarine is a relatively common gemstone, with deposits found in various locations across the globe, such as Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States. The most highly prized varieties of Aquamarine come from Brazil and are renowned for their vivid blue-green colour. However, Aquamarine can also be found in shades of pale blue, green, and even yellow. Despite being relatively common, Aquamarine is still highly valued due to its beauty and durability. The value of Aquamarine is determined by factors such as its colour, clarity, and carat weight. | Rarity: Turquoise is a gemstone that is less common than Aquamarine. It is formed from the weathering of copper deposits, and the best-quality Turquoise is found in arid regions with high copper concentrations, such as Iran, Afghanistan, and the southwestern United States. Turquoise is valued for its vivid blue-green colour, and the presence of dark veins or inclusions of other minerals, such as pyrite or black matrix, can increase its value. The value of Turquoise is determined by factors such as its colour, clarity, and presence of any inclusions. |
