March Birthstone - Aquamarine

March is a month that heralds the arrival of spring, and with it comes a gemstone that mirrors the serene beauty of the season – Aquamarine. Known as the March birthstone, this enchanting gem captures the essence of the ocean's tranquility. From the march stone birthstone to its varied forms like aquamarine earrings, bracelets, and pendants, aquamarine's allure is timeless and universal.

The Aquamarine: A Gem of Oceanic Wonders

Aquamarine, the enchanting March birthstone, is a gemstone that captures the very essence of the sea's vast mysteries. Its name, derived from the Latin 'aqua marina', means 'water of the sea', aptly reflecting its range of blue hues, reminiscent of tranquil ocean waters. This gemstone is not just celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, but also for its rich history and symbolism.

The Varieties of Aquamarine

Aquamarine, a gemstone celebrated for its breathtaking blue and greenish hues, represents the tranquil essence of the sea. As a member of the Beryl family, aquamarine owes its charismatic pale blue color to the presence of metallic elements, specifically iron. Without these elements, Beryl remains colorless, known as Goshenite.

Blue Aquamarine

Blue aquamarine, the quintessential variety, exhibits a green-blue color, often clear and light in hue. The stone's natural greenish-blue color can be enhanced to a purer blue through heat treatments, a widely accepted practice in gemology. However, some enthusiasts prefer the original, slightly green tone.

• Exhibits a green-blue color, often clear and light in hue.
• Commonly enhanced through heat treatment to achieve a purer blue, reducing greenish tints.
• Widely appreciated for its transparency and depth of color.
• The most recognized and classic variety of aquamarine, used extensively in jewelry.

Santa Maria Aquamarine

Named after the Santa Maria de Itabira gem mines in Brazil, Santa Maria Aquamarine is known for its deep and vibrant blue hue. This variety is highly sought after for its clarity and transparency, and similarly shaded stones from Mozambique are referred to as Santa Maria Africana Aquamarine. Russian aquamarine, though less common, is also prized for its unique color.

• Named after the famous Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil.
• Features deeper, more vibrant blue hues compared to other aquamarines.
• Santa Maria Africana Aquamarine from Mozambique shares similar qualities.
• Highly sought after for both clarity and intense blue coloration.

Maxixe Aquamarine

Maxixe Aquamarine, a variant of Beryl, displays a deep blue color due to irradiation within the earth. However, this color is unstable and fades over time when exposed to light, but it can be temporarily restored through manual irradiation.

• Known for its deep blue color caused by natural irradiation.
• Color is unique but fades over time when exposed to light; can be manually re-irradiated.
• Less common compared to other types, adding to its uniqueness.
• Valued for its distinct and intense blue hue, although less stable.

Moss Aquamarine

Moss Aquamarine is characterized by its more greenish color and inclusion of specks or threads of other minerals. This variety, often considered of lower quality due to its inclusions, has gained popularity for its natural and earthy appearance.

• Characterized by a more greenish color and inclusions resembling moss.
• Inclusions give it an earthy, natural appearance, appealing to certain aesthetics.
• Considered lower in quality due to inclusions, yet popular for its unique look.
• Often used in jewelry that emphasizes natural and organic designs.

Milky Aquamarine

Milky Aquamarine, an opaque or translucent gemstone, resembles the color of diluted milk. These crystals are usually carved into cabochons rather than faceted, and are known for their pale blue tints but are not as durable as pure aquamarine.

• Noted for its opaque or translucent appearance, resembling diluted milk.
• Typically exhibits light blue tints, adding to its soft aesthetic appeal.
• Less durable than clearer aquamarine, often carved into cabochons.
• Sought after for its gentle, subtle coloring and unique translucency.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Aquamarine holds a storied place in history and culture, weaving a tapestry of myth, legend, and tradition. Historically, this gemstone was revered by sailors and seafarers. They believed it originated in the treasure chests of mermaids and was a talisman against the dangers of the ocean. Aquamarine was also considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness in ancient lore. The Romans used aquamarine for carving intaglios, while the Greeks fashioned it into simple, elegant jewelry, believing it to bring victory in battles and legal disputes.

In the Middle Ages, aquamarine was attributed with mystical properties, including the power to rekindle the love of married couples and to render soldiers invincible. Alchemists in the Renaissance period valued it for its supposed ability to awaken psychic awareness. It was also used in various religious and ceremonial contexts, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Its association with the sea made it a natural choice for fishermen and voyagers, who wore it for luck and protection during their journeys.

Sources and Mining of Aquamarine

Aquamarine is primarily mined in Brazil, with the famous Santa Maria aquamarines coming from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine. These particular gems are renowned for their deeper, more vivid blue color. Other significant sources include Mozambique, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and the United States. Each locale produces aquamarines with distinct qualities and hues, contributing to the gemstone's diverse appeal.

Aquamarine's Place in Jewelry and Fashion

In the realm of jewelry, aquamarine is a favored choice for designers due to its versatility and durability. Ranking a solid 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it is suitable for daily wear. It's often cut into various shapes, with emerald cut being a popular choice to enhance its color and clarity. The gemstone's clarity and transparency make it ideal for large, statement pieces that showcase its serene blue.

Aquamarine's Healing and Metaphysical Properties

Aquamarine is celebrated not just for its physical beauty but also for its purported healing and metaphysical properties. It is believed to be a powerful stone for calming and soothing, making it ideal for meditation and stress relief. In crystal healing therapies, aquamarine is often used to soothe and calm the emotional body, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. It's thought to help release anger and reduce fear, making it beneficial for those going through emotional turmoil.

In terms of physical healing, aquamarine is said to be effective in treating ailments related to the throat, including sore throats and thyroid problems. It's also believed to bolster the immune system and aid in the healing of inflammatory diseases. Spiritually, aquamarine is associated with the throat chakra, enhancing clear communication and self-expression. It's often used in practices that seek to deepen spiritual awareness and connect with higher states of consciousness. This makes it a favored stone among those seeking a path to spiritual enlightenment and clarity.

Aquamarine in the Modern World

In the modern world, aquamarine continues to be a gemstone of significance and allure. It seamlessly blends ancient symbolism with contemporary fashion, making it a versatile choice for jewelry designers and wearers alike. The serene blue of aquamarine mirrors the ethos of modern life, embodying calmness, clarity, and a connection to nature. This makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers and those who lean towards minimalist, nature-inspired designs.

Aquamarine's appeal in the modern jewelry market is multifaceted. It's a favored gemstone for engagement rings, offering a unique and meaningful alternative to traditional diamonds. Its tranquil hues also make it a popular choice for birthstone jewelry, particularly for those born in March. The gemstone's versatility is evident in its use in various types of jewelry, from elegant, understated pieces to bold, avant-garde creations. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the ongoing interest in crystal healing and spirituality has also contributed to aquamarine's popularity. It's not just a piece of jewelry; for many, it's a symbol of inner peace, healing, and spiritual growth.

Aquamarine Jewelry

Aquamarine, the serene and captivating March birthstone, is a gemstone that has been admired across various cultures for its beauty and mystical properties. This beautiful gem, known for its range of blue-green hues, embodies the tranquility and purity of the sea. Let's explore the intriguing world of aquamarine jewelry, its significance, varieties, and how it has captivated jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The Beauty of Aquamarine Jewelry

Aquamarine shines in various forms of jewelry. Its slightly blue-green color is perfect for those who adore versatile gemstones. Aquamarine jewelry pieces, such as promise rings, stacking rings, necklaces, and earrings, exhibit contemporary elegance. The gem pairs well with diamonds and other stones, providing a refreshing touch to different colored metals. Its crisp, oceanic hue makes it an ideal choice for engagement rings, birthstone gifts, and even fashion statements.

Celebrity and Cultural Influence

Aquamarine has graced the collections of many historical and celebrity figures, including Queen Elizabeth II, Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Diana, Marilyn Monroe, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Each of these icons has been known to wear aquamarine jewelry, often featuring large, stunning stones surrounded by diamonds.

In popular culture, aquamarine has appeared in iconic movies like Titanic and is featured in series like Harry Potter and Sailor Moon, further cementing its place in the collective imagination as a gemstone of beauty and mystique.

Harnessing Aquamarine's Powers

To fully benefit from aquamarine's powers, it's recommended to cleanse and charge the stone regularly, use it in water therapy, carry it with you, or include it in crystal grids. These practices are believed to enhance the stone's calming and healing properties, making it a versatile and powerful addition to one's spiritual and wellness journey.

Celebrating Special Days with Aquamarine

Aquamarine, the enchanting March birthstone, has a rich history and symbolism that makes it a truly special gem for those celebrating their birthdays or special anniversaries in March.

Aquamarine in Relationships and Well-being

Beyond its maritime associations, aquamarine is also believed to bring harmony to relationships. It is thought to cool tempers, allowing for calm and level-headed communication. This soothing influence extends to personal interactions, making it a symbol of peace and tranquility. For this reason, aquamarine is often considered a token of a strong, committed relationship, and is also a traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary.

Conclusion

Aquamarine, the march birthstone, is more than just a beautiful gem; it's a symbol of tranquility, clarity, and the beauty of the sea. As you explore the world of aquamarine jewelry, remember that each piece carries a story as deep and vast as the ocean itself. Embrace the serene beauty of aquamarine and let it bring a piece of the ocean's tranquility into your life.