Santa Maria Aquamarine: Everything You Need to Know About the World's Most Coveted Blue Aquamarine
Santa Maria Aquamarine: Everything You Need to Know About the World's Most Coveted Blue Aquamarine
Few gemstones command as much admiration as Santa Maria Aquamarine. Known for its mesmerizing deep blue color and exceptional clarity, Santa Maria Aquamarines are considered among the finest aquamarines ever discovered. Their rich ocean-blue appearance has made them highly sought after by collectors, jewelry designers, and gemstone enthusiasts worldwide.
But what exactly is Santa Maria Aquamarine? Why is it so valuable? And what does "Santa Maria Color" actually mean?
This guide explains everything you need to know before purchasing a premium aquamarine.
What Is Santa Maria Aquamarine?
Santa Maria Aquamarine originally referred to gemstones mined in the Santa Maria de Itabira region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The mine became famous for producing aquamarines with an unusually intense and saturated blue color, significantly deeper than the pale blue shades commonly associated with aquamarine.
Because production from the original mine has been extremely limited for many years, genuine Santa Maria-origin gemstones are now exceptionally rare.
Today, the term "Santa Maria Color" is widely used in the gemstone trade to describe aquamarines that display a similar rich blue appearance, regardless of where they were mined.
What Is Santa Maria Color?
Santa Maria Color describes the appearance of the gemstone—not necessarily its origin.
A high-quality Santa Maria color aquamarine typically exhibits:
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Rich, vivid blue saturation
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Minimal gray appearance
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Excellent transparency
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Bright brilliance
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Strong color even under indoor lighting
Many beautiful aquamarines from Africa, Madagascar, Pakistan, Nigeria, Mozambique, India, and Brazil may display a color very similar to the original Santa Maria gemstones.
For this reason, reputable sellers should clearly distinguish between:
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Santa Maria Aquamarine (origin from the historic Brazilian locality)
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Aquamarine with Santa Maria Color (similar color appearance)
Why Are Santa Maria Aquamarines So Expensive?
Several factors contribute to their premium value.
1. Exceptional Color
Color is the single most important factor affecting aquamarine value.
The deeper and more saturated the blue, the rarer the gemstone becomes.
2. Rarity
The original Santa Maria mine no longer produces significant quantities.
Large, untreated stones with exceptional color are extremely difficult to obtain.
3. High Clarity
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family and is famous for excellent transparency.
Premium stones are often eye clean, allowing their color and brilliance to shine.
4. Strong Demand
Collectors and luxury jewelry buyers specifically seek darker blue aquamarines.
This consistent demand keeps prices high.
Is Every Dark Blue Aquamarine a Santa Maria Aquamarine?
No.
Many natural aquamarines display a beautiful deep blue color but do not originate from Santa Maria de Itabira.
Describing such stones as "Santa Maria Aquamarine" would be inaccurate.
Instead, reputable jewelers often describe them as:
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Close to Santa Maria Color
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Santa Maria Color
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Santa Maria Inspired Color
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Deep Blue Aquamarine
How to Identify a High-Quality Aquamarine
When shopping for aquamarine, consider these characteristics:
Color
Look for:
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Rich blue
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Medium to medium-dark saturation
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Even color distribution
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Bright appearance
Avoid stones with excessive gray or dull tones.
Clarity
Premium aquamarines should appear eye clean.
Small natural inclusions are acceptable, but obvious fractures reduce value.
Cut
Excellent cutting enhances brilliance.
Popular cuts include:
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Emerald Cut
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Oval Cut
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Asscher Cut
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Cushion Cut
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Pear Cut
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Baguette Cut
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Kite Cut
Size
Aquamarine crystals often occur in large sizes, making it possible to own impressive gemstones without the prices associated with sapphires or diamonds.
Aquamarine Treatments
Most aquamarines on the market have undergone gentle heat treatment to reduce greenish tones and enhance their blue color.
However, untreated natural aquamarines remain especially desirable among collectors because they retain their original appearance.
Always ask whether a gemstone has been treated and purchase from a trusted seller who clearly discloses any enhancements.
Best Jewelry for Santa Maria Color Aquamarines
The rich blue color pairs beautifully with many jewelry styles.
Popular choices include:
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Solitaire engagement rings
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Halo rings
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Cocktail rings
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Pendant necklaces
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Tennis bracelets
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Statement earrings
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Anniversary jewelry
Because aquamarine measures 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale, it is durable enough for everyday jewelry with proper care.
Browse our collection today to find the perfect aquamarine for your next heirloom jewelry piece.
