The earliest known discovery of aquamarines dates back to 1723, with the name originating from the Latin term "aqua,” which translates to "water,” and "marina,” meaning "the sea.” Throughout history, the aquamarine birthstone has been linked to water and the ocean because of its blue color. Roman fishermen believed it provided protection, guaranteed safe sea travel, and brought luck in fishing. Roman physicians used aquamarine to help with problems like overeating and bloating. The gemstone has been valued by numerous ancient cultures, including the Sumerians, Egyptians, Hebrews, and Greeks. Beads crafted from aquamarine were discovered among Egyptian mummies. More than two thousand years ago, the Greeks created elaborate designs on aquamarine stones, turning them into intaglios.

Heat treatment may be utilized to enhance the color of aquamarine. Filling or laser treatments are less frequently employed and may focus on resolving clarity concerns. Natural aquamarines that are untreated, exhibiting a vibrant blue hue and exceptional clarity, are typically more valuable and rarer compared to their treated counterparts. Heat treatment is widely accepted and does not inherently reduce value; however, untreated stones with vibrant blue shades are generally more valuable than their treated counterparts. Warm, soapy water is safe for cleaning aquamarines, while ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are generally safe methods, provided there are no fractures or liquid inclusions present in the gemstone.