March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Introduction to Aquamarine

Aquamarine, the beautiful sea-colored gemstone, is the birthstone of March. The name “aquamarine” originates from the Latin words “aqua marina,” which translate to “sea water,” aptly describing the tranquil blue color of the stone. This blue to blue-green beryl variety has been found in a range of shades, from nearly colorless to deep-blue, but the most valued color is a rich, sky blue.

Aquamarine has long been a symbol of youth, health, hope, and fidelity. It is believed to possess calming energies, reduce stress, and quiet the mind. With its strong connection to the sea and the water, it’s also considered a stone of protection, particularly for sailors and those taking long journeys.

Attribute	Aquamarine
Birthstone for	March
Color	Ranges from nearly colorless to deep-blue; most valued is a rich, sky blue
Symbolism	Symbol of youth, health, hope, and fidelity; believed to possess calming energies, reduce stress, and quiet the mind
Historical Significance	Valued by the Egyptians, Sumerians, and Hebrews; Romans believed it could cure medical conditions and was a symbol of happiness and everlasting youth
Major Sources	Significant deposits found in Brazil; also mined in Australia, parts of Africa, and the United States
Physical Properties	Member of the beryl family; rates 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness; forms in large crystals in igneous rocks
In Jewelry	Used in various styles and settings; often set in white gold or platinum to highlight its blue color; pairs well with diamonds
Care	Clean with a solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water; avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme heat
Psychological and Emotional Significance	Said to release anger and negativity, replacing them with mental peace and clarity; encourages spiritual growth, intuition, and awareness
Choosing Aquamarine Jewelry	Consider the size, cut, and color of the stone, as well as the setting and overall design of the jewelry piece; consider the recipient’s lifestyle and preferences

Origin and History of Aquamarine

The use of aquamarine dates back to ancient times. The Egyptians, Sumerians, and Hebrews all admired and valued aquamarine. The Romans believed it could cure medical conditions of the stomach, liver, jaw, and throat. They also saw it as a symbol of happiness and everlasting youth.

During the Middle Ages, aquamarine amulets were made to protect sailors and guarantee a safe voyage. It was also believed that if the figure of a frog was carved on an aquamarine, it served to reconcile enemies and make them friends – a notion that aligns with the gem’s reputation for encouraging calm communication.

Historically, the most significant deposits of aquamarine have been found in Brazil, but it is also mined in Australia, parts of Africa, and the United States.

The timeless appeal of this vibrant blue gemstone, along with its rich symbolism and historical significance, make aquamarine a highly desirable birthstone for those born in March.

The Mythology and Symbolism of Aquamarine

The mythology surrounding aquamarine is as beautiful as the stone itself. It has been referred to as “the treasure of mermaids” and was used by sailors as a talisman of good luck, fearlessness, and protection. The ancient Greeks and Romans knew aquamarine as the sailor’s gem, ensuring safe and prosperous passage across stormy seas.

Aquamarine is also considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness. The light blue hue invokes the tranquillity of the sea and the exhilaration and relaxation of the shore. It is believed to be an excellent stone for meditation, as it brings peace, quiet courage, and clear communication, making it an excellent stone for those looking to express their innermost thoughts and feelings.

As a birthstone, it’s believed that aquamarine can awaken love, enhance intelligence, and provide its wearer with foresight, courage, and happiness.

The Various Shades of Aquamarine

The color of aquamarine ranges from a pale, almost colorless blue to a strong, vibrant blue-green or teal. The most prized color is a deep-blue aqua color, although the most common is a less saturated gem in lighter blue, akin to the color of the sky.

The intensity of color and the clarity of the stone are the most important criteria when assessing the value of an aquamarine gemstone, followed by the size of the stone. Unlike other gemstones, aquamarine is often flawless. High-quality aquamarines are clear to the naked eye and have more intense color.

The Physical Properties and Formation of Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, which also includes emerald and morganite. It scores a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and resistant to scratches – an ideal choice for jewelry worn on a daily basis.

The gemstone forms in igneous rocks known as pegmatites, where large crystals can form. In fact, aquamarine crystals weighing several pounds have been found. These large crystals are sometimes cut into rectangular shapes to create dramatic pieces of jewelry.

Aquamarine in Jewelry Design

With its captivating sea-blue color and excellent clarity, aquamarine makes an ideal gemstone for creating beautiful jewelry pieces. Its hardness and durability enable it to be cut into a wide variety of shapes, from the classic round and oval cuts to more unusual and intricate designer cuts.

Its pastel color and transparent nature make it adaptable to a range of styles and settings, from vintage to modern, and from formal to casual. Aquamarine is often set in white gold or platinum to highlight its cool blue color, although it can also complement yellow and rose gold. It pairs well with other gemstones, especially diamonds, which can bring out the deep blue hue of aquamarine.

How to Care for and Clean Aquamarine Jewelry

Aquamarine jewelry is relatively easy to care for due to the gemstone’s hardness and durability. To clean aquamarine, simply use a solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water, and gently scrub the gemstone with a soft toothbrush. Rinely thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth or air dry. Avoid exposing aquamarine to harsh chemicals or extreme heat, as these could damage the gemstone. When storing aquamarine jewelry, keep it separate from other jewelry pieces to avoid scratches. A soft fabric pouch is ideal for this purpose.

Aquamarine: The Birthstone of March

Aquamarine, with its vibrant color that echoes the sea, is a fitting birthstone for the month of March, signaling the arrival of spring. Its calming and soothing qualities resonate with the renewing energy of this time of the year. Its symbols of courage, happiness, and youth make it a thoughtful and inspiring gift for those born in this month.

The Psychological and Emotional Significance of Aquamarine

Aquamarine is said to release anger and negativity, replacing them with mental peace and clarity. It is believed to encourage a state of tranquility and to soothe fears and phobias. Aquamarine is excellent for promoting spiritual growth, intuition, and awareness.

In terms of emotional healing, it can help those who are overwhelmed with responsibility to find order and calm. It can aid in understanding underlying emotional states and interpreting how feelings are connected to thoughts.

How to Choose an Aquamarine Birthstone Jewelry Piece

When choosing an aquamarine piece, consider the wearer’s style and preferences. The size, cut, and color of the stone are all important considerations. Larger stones tend to show more color, and the more intense the color, the more valuable the stone. A well-cut aquamarine will reflect light evenly across the surface of the stone.

Lastly, look at the setting and overall design of the jewelry piece. Is it practical for the recipient’s lifestyle? Is it a design that they will love and wear often? Considering these factors can help you choose the perfect aquamarine birthstone jewelry piece.

Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Aquamarine

With its beautiful blue tones and rich history, aquamarine remains a popular gemstone choice for many, especially for those lucky individuals born in March. Its symbolism and the peace it is said to bring make it not just a beautiful accessory, but also a meaningful gift. Whether worn as a ring, pendant, or earrings, aquamarine is a stunning gemstone that captures the beauty of the sea.