Aquamarine, together with Emerald, belongs to the beryl group of gems. The name, which means sea water, aptly describes this gemstone color. The pigment is iron. It was a talisman for sailors and seafarers. It is brittle and sensitive to pressure, but has good resistance to wear. The most beautiful color is deep blue green, found in Brazil, while that of Madagascar is dark blue. Almost all aquamarines are heat treated to produce a more attractive blue color. Aquamarine is the birthstone for the March born.