Aquamarine and turquoise share similar blue hues and capture the heart of many collectors, however, there are distinct differences between the two.
In today’s guide, let’s explore the differences between the two. Through these comparisons, you should have a better understanding of what makes each of these gemstones unique.
What’s the difference between teal turquoise and aquamarine?
Birthstones: Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and turquoise is the official birthstone for December.
Color: Aquamarine is a pale to medium blue, sometimes with a slightly greenish tint, whereas turquoise will be more of a sky blue with a greenish-blue, all depending on the presence of copper and iron.
Composition: Aquamarine is a variety of beryl with its color derived from iron, whereas turquoise is a hydrated phosphate composed of both copper and aluminum.
Hardness: Aquamarine is a more durable stone, scoring a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, whereas turquoise is a 6. This scale measures how resistant the stone is to scratches with higher numbers being more durable.
Inclusions: Aquamarine is often “eye clean,” which means you won’t see many inclusions with the naked eye. Turquoise, however, will often contain inclusions as well as veining, referred to as the matrix. These inclusions can be black, brown and/or yellow in color.
Location: Aquamarine is mainly sourced from Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Mozambique, while turquoise is sourced from the United States, Iran, Egypt, and China.
Metaphysical: Aquamarine is associated with tranquility, courage, and communication, while turquoise symbolizes protection, wisdom, and spiritual connection.
Transparency: Aquamarine can be transparent to translucent, while turquoise will be opaque with more of a waxy luster.
Treatment: While rare, aquamarine can be treated to enhance the color and the same can be said about turquoise. Some may stabilize it to change the color’s intensity.
Uses: Aquamarine is commonly used in jewelry, mainly rings, necklaces and earrings, whereas turquoise is also used in jewelry, particularly Southwestern styles.
How can I tell if a gemstone is turquoise or aquamarine?
To tell the difference between turquoise and aquamarine, you will want to examine three things: the color, transparency as well as inclusions.
Color: Turquoise will have more of a distinct blue-green color, ranging from a sky blue to a greenish-blue with a slightly opaque appearance. Aquamarine, however, will be more of a transparent appearance with slight blue/green hues, often resembling seawater.
Inclusions: Lastly, take a look at the inclusions as turquoise will have inclusion, which resembles web-like patterns of other minerals, usually blocks or brown in color. This is what’s going to give turquoise its character. Aquamarine, though, will be clear with minimal inclusions or flaws, making it almost look like glass.
Transparency: Turquoise will almost always be opaque or semi-translucent, whereas aquamarine will be transparent to semi-transparent. If it allows light to pass through, it’s more than likely aquamarine and is a good way to distinguish the two.
Which is more valuable: turquoise or aquamarine?
The values of any gemstone will always depend on a few factors, such as the color, clarity, size and rarity.
Usually, your higher quality aquamarine will almost always be worth more than turquoise; however, it doesn’t mean this is always true as so many factors are in play.
Typically, aquamarine will be worth more because of its clarity, color and transparency. Particularly, it’s the aqua blue that makes it one of the more desirable gemstones, especially if it’s larger. Larger, well-cut pieces can demand a high price tag.
Turquoise, on the other hand, is highly valued for its color and unique patterns. The cost will greatly depend on the color intensity, the consistency as well as lack of imperfections. High-quality turquoise, such as “Persian turquoise” or “Sleeping Beauty turquoise,” can be quite valuable.
Aquamarine and turquoise together metaphysical properties
When worn together, aquamarine and turquoise can create a powerful energetic blend, amplifying the properties. This can include:
- promoting emotional healing and balance, soothing anxiety as well as inner peace
- enhancing communication, self expression and helping you tap into your inner wisdom
- provide protection and courage, empowering you to overcome your challenges
Can turquoise and aquamarine be worn together in jewelry?
Absolutely!
When you combine these two, it can create a beautiful blend of blue and green hues, often creating the colors of both the sea and sky. Both of these stones have unique characteristics and pairing them can result in a visually appealing style.
When combining, however, make sure you’re aware that turquoise is generally softer and more porous than aquamarine. This means turquoise will require more care to avoid any damage or discoloration, especially if exposed to harsh cleaners.
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