[3] The color of aquamarine can be changed by heat, with a goal to enhance its physical appearance (though this practice is frowned upon by collectors and jewelers).

[5] Aquamarine is a fairly common gemstone,[6] rendering it more accessible for purchase, compared to other gems in the beryl family.

[15] Aquamarine is blue with hues of green, caused by trace amounts of iron found within the crystal structure.

[18][16] While aquamarine often contains no inclusions,[19] it may possess them, with content such as mica, hematite, saltwater, biotite, rutile or pyrite.

[10][9] The residual fluids, which are rich in volatile elements and minerals such as silicon, aluminum, and beryllium, concentrate when the magma cools and solidifies.

Although beryllium is a relatively uncommon element in the crust of the Earth, it can be found in concentrated forms in some geological settings.

[9] The dissolved elements start to precipitate out of the solution and form crystals as the hydrothermal fluids cool and come into contact with the right minerals and circumstances.

Crystals of beryl, which include aquamarine, begin to form in pegmatite veins and host rock fissures or cavities.

[20] Dark-blue maxixe color can be produced in green, pink or yellow beryl by irradiating it with high-energy radiation (gamma rays, neutrons or even X-rays).

[21] Naturally occurring blue hued aquamarine specimens are more expensive than those that have undergone heat treatment to reduce yellow tones caused by ferric iron.

[5] It has historically been used a symbol for youth and happiness due to its color, which has also, along with its name, made Western culture connect it with the ocean.

[23][22] Ancient tales have claimed that aquamarine came from the treasure chests of mermaids; which led to sailors using this gemstone as a lucky charm to protect against shipwreck.

[26] The Egyptians, Greeks, Hebrews, and Sumerians all believed that aquamarine stones were worn by the High Priest of the Second Temple.

[28] Aquamarine can be found in countries like Afghanistan, China, Kenya, Pakistan, Russia, Mozambique, the United States,[29] Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka,[30] Malawi, India,[5] Zimbabwe, Australia, Myanmar, and Namibia.

[5] The largest known example is the Dom Pedro aquamarine found in Pedra Azul, Minas Gerais, Brazil, in the late 1980's.

Preparation of the site is the next step, which includes removing any vegetation, leveling the land, and constructing the facilities - such as access roads and workspaces.

To extract the aquamarine crystals from the surrounding rock and other minerals, the ore is crushed, processed, and occasionally cleaned.

The gemstones are assessed and graded by gemologists and experts according to predetermined standards, such as the four C's (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight).

Warm soapy water and a soft brush are the best ways to clean this gemstone, however, ultrasonic cleaners are relatively safe for aquamarine.