You're ready to go shopping for aquamarine! Simply print out this sheet and take it with you to the jeweler. As each item is satisfied, you'll be getting closer to the aquamarine of your dreams.

Occasional giving for aquamarine

1. Aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March.

Color

1. Deep intense, pure blue, think clear-summer sky. This hue is rare in stones under 5 carats.
2. Examine each stone carefully for even color distribution. Look at the top, profile and bottom over various colored backgrounds and under different lighting sources. You want a stone whose overall hue can stand up to these tests.
3. Where and when will you most be wearing the stone? Daytime at the office? Night-time, special occasion? Simulate that lighting as best you can and look at the stone again.
4. Most aquamarine is heat-treated to bring out the blue color. The treatment is permanent and acceptable. Ask your jeweler if the color is "natural" or enhanced. Get all treatments clearly written on your bill of sale.
5. Just because deep, sky-blue is the most valuable, you may prefer something lighter. That's fine. Pick the stone that best suits your skin tone, wardrobe and hair color. But if you are seeking investment quality aquamarine, don't settle for anything less than optimum color.

Clarity

1. Aquamarine is usually very free from flaws. Therefore, high transparency is expected. Don't settle for less.
2. Determine transparency and clarity by applying the same examinations as you did to establish the strength of color. First with the naked eye, then with a 10X magnifying loupe, keeping an eye out for patches of black or any inclusion that could mar transparency or color consistency.

Carat weight

1. The highest quality color for aquamarine is rare in stones under 5 carats.
2. With any gemstone, think in terms of "price-per-carat" rather than "total cost." The price per carat is greatly affected by quality of color and clarity, so only compare stones of equal size and overall quality.
3. It is always best to purchase loose stones. If you are shopping for set aquamarine, be aware of "total weight" price tags. You want to know the price-per-carat of the stone prior to setting.

Other considerations

1. Aquamarine is available in a wide variety of cuts and style. Ovals and emerald cuts are common.
2. Blue topaz and synthetic spinel are commonly mistaken for aquamarine. Although the spinel can be easily spotted with the Chelsea color filter test (a common jeweler's tool.) Spinel will show red and aquamarine will appear green. Topaz is not so easy to detect. Always shop with reputable jewelers.