Santa Maria Aquamarine: The Rare Deep Blue Variety

For gemstone enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike, few stones evoke the mesmerizing power of the ocean quite like Santa Maria aquamarine. While most people recognize aquamarine by its signature pale, sky-blue hue, the Santa Maria variety stands in a league of its own. Known for its intense, deeply saturated blue color, this rare gemstone is a treasure within the world of fine jewelry and crystal healing.

If you are drawn to the serenity of blue crystals or looking for an investment-grade gemstone, understanding the unique qualities of this stone is essential. In this guide, we explore the origins, value, and spiritual meaning of the rare aquamarine stone that has captivated collectors for decades.

What is Santa Maria Aquamarine?

Santa Maria aquamarine derives its name from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Minas Gerais, Brazil, where it was first discovered. Unlike the standard light blue stones commonly found in commercial jewelry, these gems possess a distinct, deep blue saturation that is incredibly scarce. This unique coloration is often described as "double blue" due to its intensity and lack of green overtones.

The primary distinction lies in the tone and saturation. A standard aquamarine might resemble a clear daytime sky, whereas a high-quality Santa Maria stone reflects the deep, captivating blue of the open ocean. Because the original Brazilian mines are largely exhausted, the term is now sometimes used to describe the color quality rather than just the origin, though purists still prize the Brazilian material above all else.

The Rarity and Value of Dark Aquamarine

The question on many collectors' minds is: Is Santa Maria aquamarine valuable? The answer is a resounding yes. The value of any colored gemstone is primarily determined by its color, and aquamarine is no exception. The deeper and more intense the blue, the higher the price per carat. Because the santa maria aquamarine color is so difficult to find in nature, it commands a significant premium over lighter varieties.

Authentic stones from the original Brazilian locality are becoming increasingly rare, making them highly sought after by investors and high-end jewelry designers. While other deposits, such as those in Africa (often called "Santa Maria Africana"), produce similar colors, the provenance of the original Santa Maria mine holds a legendary status in the gem trade.

For a visual explanation of this gemstone's significance in the market, watch the video below:

Spiritual Meaning and Benefits

Beyond its financial worth, Santa Maria aquamarine meaning is deeply tied to spiritual wellness. As a stone of the Throat Chakra, it is believed to facilitate clear communication and articulate expression. The intense blue energy of this variety is said to offer a more profound calming effect than lighter stones, helping to soothe deep-seated emotional waves and bring about a state of tranquility.

For women who practice meditation or self-care, wearing or holding this deep blue aquamarine can serve as a powerful talisman for courage and inner peace. It is often used to cleanse the emotional body and encourage a flow of energy that washes away stress, much like the tides of the sea.

Distinguishing Santa Maria from Other Varieties

It can be challenging for the untrained eye to distinguish between a top-quality commercial aquamarine and a true Santa Maria stone. The key is to look for the absence of green secondary hues and a medium-dark blue tone that remains vivid even in low light. Standard aquamarines often wash out or appear colorless without strong lighting, whereas Santa Maria aquamarine jewelry retains its rich color.

It is also important to note that some stones are heat-treated to enhance their blue color. While this is a common and accepted practice in the industry, unheated stones with natural deep blue hues are exceptionally rare and valuable. When purchasing, asking for a laboratory report from reputable organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) can help verify the stone's quality.

Buying Santa Maria Aquamarine Jewelry

When shopping for Santa Maria aquamarine jewelry, look for transparency and clarity. This gemstone is a Type I gem, meaning it is typically eye-clean with no visible inclusions. The combination of high clarity and deep color creates a brilliance that is perfect for rings, pendants, and statement pieces.

Whether you are looking for a centerpiece for a custom ring or a collectible figurine, these stones represent the pinnacle of the beryl family. For more technical details on aquamarine varieties, resources like the International Gem Society provide excellent data.

Conclusion

Santa Maria aquamarine is more than just a beautiful stone; it is a symbol of rarity, depth, and serenity. Its distinct dark aquamarine hue sets it apart from common varieties, making it a prized addition to any serious collection. Whether you are drawn to it for its investment potential or its soothing spiritual benefits, owning a piece of this deep blue variety connects you to the profound energies of the earth and sea.

We invite you to explore our carefully selected range of blue gemstones and experience the tranquil beauty they bring to your life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Maria Aquamarine

Is Santa Maria aquamarine valuable?

Yes, Santa Maria aquamarine is highly valuable due to its scarcity and intense deep blue color. It typically commands a much higher price per carat than standard pale aquamarine.

What is a Santa Maria aquamarine?

Santa Maria aquamarine is a specific variety of the gemstone beryl, originally from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil. It is distinguished by its rare, deeply saturated blue color, which is significantly darker than common aquamarine.

How much is Santa Maria aquamarine?

The price varies based on carat weight, clarity, and cut, but fine quality Santa Maria stones can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per carat, far exceeding the cost of commercial-grade stones.

What color aquamarine is most valuable?

The most valuable aquamarine color is a moderately strong to deep blue to slightly greenish-blue. The intensity and saturation of the blue, as seen in the Santa Maria variety, are the primary drivers of value.

What makes Santa Maria aquamarine rare?

It is rare because the original Brazilian mines that produced this specific deep blue quality are largely exhausted. While similar stones are found in Africa, the specific geological conditions that created the original Santa Maria stones are uncommon.