March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Qualities
Aquamarine is known for its clarity and transparency. It’s also quite hard, ranging between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs mineral hardness scale and has a glass-like luster when it’s cut. This beryl-variety gem is notable for its striking blue to blue-green hues. The word, “aquamarine” is actually derived from an old Latin expression for “seawater,” due to its sea-blue colors that can range from light to dark. The most valuable color for the gem to be is a dark, deep blue.
Sources
Most of the gem-quality aquamarine comes from Brazil, but it is also mined in Zambia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Mozambique. Different shaped aquamarine gemstones have recently been found in China. These pieces are flat and hexagonal. These more recent aquamarine gems are less expensive than those found in other countries.
Mythology and alternative healing
The legend is that aquamarine originated in a treasure chest that belonged to mermaids. Since these ancient times, it has been referred to as the “sailor’s lucky stone.” Even the Greeks and Romans viewed aquamarine as having the power to provide safe passage across the stormy waters. Other folklore states that aquamarine can increase intelligence, youth, foresight, happiness, courage, and it’s also thought to reduce the effects of poison. Proponents of alternative medicine believe that aquamarine, worn close to the skin on a troubled part of the body, can ease ailments such as arthritis, varicose veins, inflammation of the eyes, and even sore throats. The efficacy of such theories is debatable, but there are some people who truly believe gemstones have such properties.
Aquamarine jewelry
Aquamarine is a popular choice in jewelry for women all around the world due to its availability and its reasonable price. The hardness of the stone makes it ideal to be set in any kind of jewelry, even pieces that get worn every day. The shapes that best show off the beauty of an aquamarine stone are a rectangular or a square cut, though the most popular choices are round, oval, pear, and cushion. The most popular pieces in which to find aquamarine gemstones are earrings. They are also beautiful in rings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces, and brooches. In addition to being the birthstone for the month of March, aquamarine is also the traditional gift for 19th wedding anniversaries.
Taking care of your aquamarine jewelry
Though aquamarine is a strong and durable gemstone, it will still need careful handling and attention. Your aquamarine jewelry shouldn’t be exposed to harsh chemicals. To keep your stone from being scratched, store aquamarine gemstones separately from other types of jewelry. Clean your aquamarine jewelry pieces with warm soapy water. Make sure your jewelry is thoroughly rinsed of all soap and soap residue. They can be dried using tissue or a soft, lint-free cloth. Store your aquamarine gemstones in a jewelry box lined with fabric or wrapped in a soft cloth. At Marlow Design, we’d love to help you choose a piece of aquamarine jewelry to include in Family Jewelry or any setting that you may want, including custom designs.