THE BERYL FAMILY EXPLAINED: Aquamarine, Emerald + Morganite

The Beryl Beauties: Aquamarine, Emerald + Morganite

When you think of Aquamarine, Emerald or Morganite, it's easy to see them as completely different gemstones, you got the ocean bluey-green Aquamarine, the rich, deep greens of Emeralds and then that soft blush pink Morganite.....but, what if I told you that they're actually all related as they all come from the same mineral family?

These three potent gems are part of the Beryl family - a group of crystals that share the same base mineral structure, but shift in colour, energies and meaning - depending on their unique trace elements.

ai generated image of multi cuts of faceted gemstones

Think of it as that they are the same crystal at the base of what they are, but totally different moods, all depending on what nature has added to the mix!

In this guide, I'll walk you through the key differences between Aquamarine, Emerald and Morganite. Not just how they form either, but how they feel, how they're used in jewellery and how to choose the one that's right for you. Whether you're drawn to the ocean calm of Aquamarine, the revitalising energy of Emerald or the gentle warmth of Morganite, each one offers its own kinda magic.

What is Beryl?

At the heart of Aquamarine, Emerald and Morganite is one shared foundation: Beryl.

Beryl is a mineral that forms in long, hexagonal crystals and is made up of beryllium, aluminium, silicon and oxygen. What makes each variety so visually and energetically different is the presence of tiny amounts of trace elements, nature's subtle little tweaks that shifts everything about each one's colour and energy.

Here's how the nature's lil tweaks work:

• Aquamarine gets its dreamy blue hues from iron.

• Emerald owes its rich, vibrant green to chromium or vanadium.

• Morganite glows that soft pink due to traces of manganese.

So even though they come from the same mineral family, their colour, clarity and crystal energy are completely transformed by these natural inclusions to create variations. It's like the Beryl family is one soul expressed in three different moods: serene, powerful and nurturing.

Meet the Trio: Properties + Jewellery Vibes

AQUAMARINE

Cool, calm and collected, Aquamarine is the crystal equivalent of a deeeeep exhale. Often associated as giving mermaid vibes due to it's sea foam like colour, this crystal is all about clarity, communication and living in the moment. Perfect for anyone who wants to speak their truth gently, soothe away anxieties or simply feel more at ease in their self.

Aquamarine in silver earrings, image by Nadiia Shevchenko from Unsplash

In jewellery, Aquamarine brings a fresh oceanic energy, especially when paired with silver. It suits minimalists, sea lovers, brides to be or anyone craving a bit of flow. Think serene pendants, delicate drop earrings or water coloured stacking rings! But don't get me wrong, this gemstone looks just as beautiful with gold metal too.

Best for: softening overthinking, letting go and trusting in the Universe, March babies, Aquarius and Pisces star signs, cooling down fiery energies and channelling your inner mermaid.

EMERALD

Emerald is rich, regal and magnetic. Long associated with royalty, love and Venus energy, this deep green gemstone guides us to live from the heart and live life to the fullest, bringing in growth, wisdom and deep connections. There's something ancient about its power - like a forest that's seen lifetimes.

Cushion Cut Emerald. Image by Sabrianna from Unsplash

Energetically, it's a crystal of abundance and harmony. In jewellery, it holds its own - bold, confident + timeless. Whether set in gold or silver, Emerald always makes a statement in any piece of jewellery it's found in, bringing an elevated feel along with the best pop of colour to your accessories and outfit. Personally, I can't get over the beauty of Emerald and gold together, it's just...chef's kiss!

Best for: attracting prosperity, deepening love, connecting with you higher truth and living life to the fullest, those born in the month of May or falling under the zodiac signs of Taurus, Gemini and Aries.

MORGANITE

Morganite is the softest of the trio, it's peachy, pink and full of tenderness. It opens the Heart but in the most gentle way possible, encouraging self love, compassion and emotional healing. It's often chosen by those going through big transitions or wanting to reconnect with their inner calm.

Morganite rectangle cut. Image by Sabrianna on Unsplash

Visually, Morganite feels like a modern romantic dream when paired with both gold and silver, but with rose gold, it's actually stunning. Adding a feminine luminous touch to rings, pendants or layered everyday stacks. Morganite is actually coming up in the ranks for engagement rings for modern brides as it's stunning when presented as a faceted gemstone.

Best for: nurturing your inner world, softening grief or heartbreak, bringing back the innocence of life and that romantic love, those who's star sign is a Libra, Taurus or Cancer.

Choosing Your Beryl: Which one is for you?

When it comes to choosing between Aquamarine, Emerald and Morganite the truth is....your energy already knows what it needs.

You might feel instantly drawn to one, and that is always worth listening to. But if you're unsure, here's a little guide to help you connect with the crystal that may suit you the best;

Feel a strong connection to or a need for ocean energy?

Aquamarine brings back intuitive flow with calm and clarity. It's the one to wear when you need to breathe deeper and just allow yourself to live in the moment.

Craving growth, confidence or deeper alignment?

Emerald is your go-to for harmonious expansion. It's bold, heart-centred and here to remind you of your worth, your wisdom and that your wildest dreams are possible.

Going through transition or needing softness?

Morganite is going to hold you in the compassion and gentleness you need. It's perfect for starting a new, loving chapter in your life. Guiding you in the best way possible to be kinder to yourself.

Remember - you don't have to choose just one!

Many people build a small Beryl collection over time, wearing what they need when they need it. Like a toolkit for your emotional world! Some even mix a couple of them together, such as Aquamarine and Morganite together is a pastel lovers dream, Emerald and Morganite together have a gorgeous contrast next to each other too.

Birthstones, Milestones and Modern Heirlooms

Beryl gemstones aren't just beautiful, they hold deep emotional and symbolic meaning, making them perfect for intentional jewellery, so let me break that down briefly for you also.

Aquamarine: the birthstone for March and is often chosen for engagement rings or promise pieces because of its soothing, emotionally supportive energy. It represents trust, communication and calm, the kind of foundation every relationship deserves. It's also a really lovely subtle colour that many find easy to incorporate into their every day wear but can get scratched so must be taken care of and considered.

Emerald: a May birthstone and a timeless symbol of loyalty, deep love and abundance. It's a popular choice for engagement rings with a twist, due to it being a bolder colour choice for an engagement ring, however the emerald shade of green is a big favourite in the colour kingdom. Great for meaningful anniversary gifts that you wish to carry a sense of depth and devotion.

Morganite: although not a traditional birthstone, as mentioned already in this blog, this gemstone is rising in popularity for modern engagement rings. Thanks to its dreamy blush shade, with that soft, loving energy, plus affordability with a lasting sparkle, Morganite makes for a romantic and meaningful alternative to diamonds. It brings a feeling of unconditional love and emotional harmony, making it perfect for soul connections and fresh starts.

Each of these gemstones can be used to mark a moment, a chapter change, a new commitment or a gift to your future self. Whether set in silver, gold or rose gold, they're perfect for birthstone jewellery, anniversary keepsakes or modern talismans filled with intention.

And if you're ever torn between them? A custom piece blending more than one Beryl can be so, so special - especially when each stone holds such personal meaning for your or your loved one.

Let's Create Something Just For You

If you've fallen in love with one of these Beryl Beauties - or if your heart is pulling you towards a piece with personal meaning, I'd LOVE to create something just for you.

Whether it's a sea-soothing Aquamarine pendant, bold Emerald earrings or a soft Morganite ring, each piece will be handcrafted with care, intention and a whole lot of love. I also work with custom sourcing, so if you're after a specific cut, size or metal, we can make it happen.

Drop me a message - by clicking the email address at the footer of this page - if you'd like to explore a bespoke piece using either one of these gorgeous gemmy gems. I'll guide you through the options and help you bring your vision to life.

Because the most powerful jewellery doesn't just look good. It means something too.

Bekah from La Luna Studio