MARCH BIRTHSTONE - AQUAMARINE
March's birthstone, aquamarine, is a stunning gemstone that captures the serene beauty of the sea, evoking calmness, peace, and tranquillity. Known for its serene blue hues, aquamarine has long been cherished for its aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, and enduring symbolism. Whether you're a March-born individual or simply captivated by this brilliant stone, heres everything you need to know about aquamarine from its origins to how to select and care for it.
Origins and Locations of Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, the same mineral family that gives us other gemstones like emerald and morganite. The name "aquamarine" comes from the Latin word "aqua marina," which means "seawater," and this is a fitting name for a gemstone that ranges in colour from pale blue to deep, rich shades of blue-green.
Aquamarine is predominantly found in countries with geological conditions favourable to the formation of beryl crystals. Some of the top aquamarine-producing regions include:
- Brazil: Known for producing the largest and highest-quality aquamarine crystals, especially from the state of Minas Gerais.
- Madagascar: Another significant producer, with stones often known for their pale to medium blue colours.
- Nigeria: Famous for a unique shade of aquamarine that can range from light blue to a greenish-blue hue.
- Pakistan and Afghanistan: These countries also yield aquamarine from high-altitude mines, and their stones can be quite vibrant.
- Sri Lanka: Known for producing fine-quality aquamarine, often with a unique clarity.
Aquamarine can also be found in smaller quantities in countries like Zambia, Russia, and the United States, particularly in the states of Colorado and North Carolina.
Why You Should Buy Aquamarine Jewellery
Aquamarine isnt just beautiful to look at its a gemstone with a fascinating history and multiple symbolic meanings that make it a wonderful purchase, whether as a gift or for personal use.
1. A Symbol of Peace and Tranquillity: Throughout history, aquamarine has been associated with the calming qualities of the sea. Sailors once believed it protected them during sea voyages and provided good fortune. Today, it is considered a stone that promotes peace, harmony, and mental clarity.
2. Durability: With a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday wear. It's more resistant to scratching and damage than many other gemstones, making it an excellent choice for rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
3. A Timeless and Elegant Look: Aquamarines soft blue tones suit any skin tone and complement both casual and formal outfits. Whether set in white gold, yellow gold, or platinum, aquamarine jewellery exudes a classic, timeless beauty that will never go out of style.
4. Metaphysical Properties: Aside from being a birthstone, aquamarine is believed by some to have healing properties. Its often linked to calming emotional stress, boosting courage, and fostering communication. This makes aquamarine a thoughtful gift for those in need of emotional or spiritual grounding.
5. Versatility: Aquamarines versatility means it works well in both modern and vintage jewellery designs. Its clean, clear appearance allows it to be paired with various gemstones and metals, creating unique and personalised pieces.
How to Select Aquamarine Jewellery
When selecting aquamarine jewellery, there are several factors to consider to ensure youre getting a piece that not only looks stunning but will last for years to come.
1. Colour: The most desirable aquamarines have a vibrant blue or blue-green colour. Look for stones that have a rich, consistent colour throughout. Lighter hues are more common, but deeper, more intense blues are considered rarer and may come at a higher price.
2. Clarity: Aquamarine typically has good clarity, and most stones used in jewellery are eye-clean, meaning they do not contain visible inclusions. Always inspect the stone for any internal imperfections. The clearer the aquamarine, the more valuable it generally is.
3. Cut: Aquamarine gemstones are usually cut in popular shapes such as round, oval, emerald, or cushion cuts. The cut of the stone affects its brilliance and the way it catches the light. Make sure the cut is well-proportioned to enhance the stones natural beauty.
4. Size: Aquamarine is often found in larger stones compared to other gemstones. Depending on the setting and design of the jewellery, larger stones may be more eye-catching, but smaller stones can also make for delicate, sophisticated pieces.
5. Certification: When buying aquamarine, especially higher-quality stones, consider purchasing from reputable jewellers who can provide a certificate of authenticity. This ensures you're buying a genuine aquamarine with the qualities you expect.
Caring for Your Aquamarine Jewellery
To preserve the beauty of your aquamarine jewellery and maintain its clarity and shine, proper care is essential. Heres how you can take care of your aquamarine jewellery:
1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Aquamarine is relatively durable, but it can be sensitive to harsh chemicals, including household cleaning agents, perfumes, and lotions. Always remove your aquamarine jewellery when using these substances.
2. Gentle Cleaning: Clean your aquamarine with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals that could damage the surface of the gemstone. A gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush can help remove dirt from harder-to-reach areas.
3. Store Properly: To avoid scratches or damage, store your aquamarine jewellery in a soft pouch or separate compartment in a jewellery box. Keeping it away from harder gemstones like diamonds or rubies will prevent any accidental scratching.
4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: While aquamarine is relatively durable, extreme temperature changes can affect the stone, causing it to crack or discolour. Keep your jewellery away from heat sources and avoid wearing it in situations where it could be exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations.
5. Regular Inspections: It's a good idea to have your aquamarine jewellery professionally inspected every few years. Jewellers can check the setting, polish the gemstone, and ensure the piece remains in excellent condition.
Aquamarine is a captivating and meaningful gemstone, making it the perfect choice for March-born individuals or anyone looking for a stunning, durable piece of jewellery. With its calming colours, symbolic significance, and timeless elegance, aquamarine continues to be a beloved gem. By selecting quality stones and caring for your jewellery properly, you can ensure that your aquamarine pieces remain a treasured part of your collection for years to come.
