Aquamarine vs. Turquoise — What's the Difference?

Aquamarine is known for its clarity and range of blue tones, from light to deep blue, often resembling the clear blue of the ocean. It is a variety of beryl, making it a relative of emerald and is prized in jewelry for its transparency and hardness. On the other hand, turquoise is easily identifiable by its blue-green color and is more opaque with a waxy to matte luster. It often contains veins or patches of other materials, known as matrix, which can be black, brown, or yellowish-brown.

While aquamarine is typically faceted to enhance its light-reflecting properties and clarity, turquoise is usually cut en cabochon or formed into beads, which highlights its unique color and matrix patterns. The faceting of aquamarine allows for brilliant sparkle, ideal for fine jewelry, whereas the smooth, rounded surfaces of cabochon turquoise emphasize its rich, even color and intrinsic patterns.

Aquamarine is generally found in granite rocks and is associated with mica schists, while turquoise forms as a secondary mineral in copper deposits, often in arid regions. The geological conditions for forming aquamarine involve high temperatures and pressures, which is why it's often mined in mountainous areas, particularly in countries like Brazil and Pakistan. Conversely, turquoise deposits are typically found in places such as Iran, the southwestern United States, and Sinai.

In terms of symbolism and use, aquamarine is often associated with calmness, clarity, and protection for sailors, reflecting its water-like colors. Turquoise has been valued for thousands of years for its supposed protective properties and use as a talisman, common in both ancient and modern cultures, particularly Native American and Persian.

Despite both stones being used in jewelry, the care for each differs significantly due to their hardness. Aquamarine, being a harder gemstone, is more resistant to scratching and everyday wear, whereas turquoise is softer and more porous, requiring careful handling to avoid damage from oils, cosmetics, and other chemicals.