1.19 Ct. Aquamarine from Mozambique

This transparent princess shape aquamarine weighs 1.19 carats, with precise dimensions of 6.40 x 6.40 x 4.54 mm, and originates from Mozambique, a source increasingly recognized for gem quality beryls. The gem displays a light color intensity, evaluated as a pure, cool blue when viewed face up, and its transparency and excellent polish allow for lively light return. The clarity grade is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, indicating that inclusions are minimal and do not materially affect brilliance or durability. The cutting is a classic princess cut, executed with a modified brilliant faceting scheme that emphasizes square geometry, crisp pavilion planes, and well defined corner facets. The combination of proportion and finish produces a balanced optical performance, with scintillation from the crown facets and solid body color retention through the pavilion. The overall depth yields a depth ratio of approximately 71 percent, which contributes to a pleasing balance between face up spread and internal light reflection for this shape and size.

From a gemological perspective this stone is notable for its rarity in both size and color, relative to commonly available aquamarines. At 1.19 carats, many aquamarines of comparable dimensions trend toward very weak color, or they show more pronounced greenish tones that require aggressive heat treatment to correct. This Mozambique specimen exhibits a light but clearly defined blue that is evenly distributed across the table, rather than being windowed or zoned, which is uncommon in stones of this profile. The clarity designation very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, further distinguishes the piece because larger aquamarines frequently present with more visible internal features or surface reaching fissures. In practical terms collectors and connoisseurs seeking a small to medium carat aquamarine that reads as a pure blue under standard viewing conditions will find this example unusually clean and color consistent for its weight and princess configuration. Compared to typical commercial aquamarines offered at similar sizes, which often rely on larger tables and shallower depths to increase apparent size at the expense of color and light performance, this gem retains a compact face up area while delivering superior tonal saturation and optical depth.

The craftsmanship and enhancement history are important technical points for the discerning buyer. This aquamarine has been heat treated, a standard and stable enhancement for aquamarine, applied to reduce greenish overtones and refine the blue hue. Heat treatment in aquamarine is widely accepted in the trade when disclosed, and it produces a permanent shift in color by influencing iron related chromophores within the beryl lattice, without compromising structural integrity when performed correctly. The princess cut here demonstrates careful attention to pavilion angles and crown facet configuration, creating a faceting map that maximizes return and contrast while preserving the natural color. The polish quality is excellent, contributing to crisp facet junctions and minimal surface diffusion of light, which enhances both brilliance and the perception of clarity. For setting considerations the square outline and sharp yet slightly protected corners are suited to modern ring profiles, bezel settings, and halo assemblies where the geometric crispness of a princess cut complements angular metal work and accent stones. The Natural Gemstone Company presents this aquamarine as a technically refined option for collectors and jewelry designers who prioritize provenance, cutting integrity, and a rare combination of clean clarity and pure light blue color in a near one and two tenths carat size, a profile that is not frequently encountered in the marketplace.