AIGS Launches Grading Report for ‘Santa Maria’ Aquamarine
The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences aims to set a color standard for the trade name.
The institute has rolled out a color code for the “Santa Maria” label as well as grading reports.
“Santa Maria” originated from the color of aquamarine that came from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Minas Gerais, Brazil.
The mine produced aquamarine considered to be among the best in terms of color—a saturated blue—but is now almost depleted.
Some in the trade now refer to stones with such color as “Santa Maria,” regardless of their origin.
To define which stones should receive such a label, AIGS created a “Santa Maria” color code, which defines according to color—hue, saturation, and tone—and even clarity. It does not define by geographic origin.
See: The AIGS “Santa Maria” Report and Color Code
The Institute said its color code applies the name “Santa Maria” to the aquamarine variety of beryl that has blue color and medium saturation without brown or yellow tints.
Those with low saturation, low clarity, and dark tones do not meet the criteria to be called Santa Maria, it added. Neither does aquamarine with low clarity.
For those that do have all the right criteria, AIGS will indicate the stone qualifies as a “Santa Maria” type of aquamarine in its gemstone identification reports.
“The launch of the Santa Maria color code is yet another important initiative after launching our Jedi spinel reports last October,” said Kennedy Ho, Chairman of AIGS.
“Trade names such as pigeon blood and royal blue have been used for centuries by gem traders to describe ideal colors implying value and rarity. Yet these trade names are often ambiguous with definitions varying between buyers and sellers alike. By transforming trade names into an industry standard through reports graded by third-party objectivity, AIGS aims to reduce such ambiguity.”
The Latest
Associate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights the best jewelry looks from the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards.
Lilian Raji offers advice to a reader frustrated with the current state of their company’s website.
The actress shared her inspiration for the collection, insight into her personal style, and which jewels President Barbie would wear.
Growing your Instagram following organically is more important than ever in today's technological environment.
The giant gem originated from Karowe, the same mine that yielded a 2,492-carat rough diamond in late August.
Monishkumar Kirankumar Doshi Shah admitted to dodging customs duties on more than $13.5 million of jewelry imported into the U.S.
The new boutique is located on Madison Avenue.
Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA.
Its next event will take place in D.C. on Sept. 17 and in New York City on Oct. 29.
The artist opted for big yellow diamond earrings, a vintage chain, and white metals at the annual MTV awards show.
The Swiss watchmaker has created limited-edition timepieces for all 32 National Football League teams.
This carved jasper and yellow-diamond-eyed cat brooch from 1962 is the perfect accessory for Friday the 13th.
The jewelry giant said it expects to see an uptick in engagements in the second half of the year.
Sponsored by Gemological Institute of America
The brand is celebrating its upcoming 55th anniversary with modern designs that pay tribute to its history.
He, and other newly elected board members, will begin their terms in February.
Those interested can apply online now through Nov. 15.
Its “Her-ology” report highlights trends in the women’s luxury watch market, from top brands to movement preferences.
The smoked heirloom tomato mezcal martini, only available at Adalina in Chicago, is served with a 9-carat diamond tennis necklace.
Scheduled for Sept. 25, the online-only event will be open to non-AGS members this year, for a fee.
Customers in more than 150 countries can now shop at the jewelry retailer’s online store.
The organization, which was started by the International Colored Gemstone Association, is now a 501(c)(3).
The Gemvision founder is remembered as a passionate mentor with a deep love for God.
The “Golden Hour” collection was designed to “inspire and encourage reflection,” said the brand.
Movado has named five new brand ambassadors, featuring them in its new “When I Move You Move” campaign.
The jewelry historian discusses the history and cultural significance of jewelry throughout time and across the globe.
Bonhams will offer more than 70 pieces of the late dignitary’s jewelry next month.