Gemological Characterization of Aquamarines from the Central Potiguar Mesoregion, Río Grande do Norte, Brazil.

Abstract

Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, which has a light blue to dark blue color, in addition to a bluish-green color, the origin of its colors is attributed to various causes still under study. It is considered one of the most attractive and valuable gemstones with a strong presence in the jewelry industry. In Brazil, the Borborema Pegmatitic province is the bearer of a large number of pegmatitic bodies rich in gemological minerals. Among these pegmatitic bodies, those located in the Central Potiguar Mesoregion, in the state of Río Grande do Norte, in Northeastern Brazil, stand out. This study was conducted to determine the gemological characteristics of aquamarines from six producing mines in the Central Potiguar Mesoregion, known as Assentamento Santa Rosa, Fazenda Cirino, Fazenda Rodeador, Sítio Monte Alegre, Sítio Pedra Branca and Trapiá. To achieve the objectives, classical gemological methods were used to elucidate the characterization of aquamarines. The analyzed crystals presented anhedral shape. The results obtained show crystals mostly classified as excellent taking into account their main characteristics such as color, purity and cut. They can be classified as crystals of gemological quality.