For those born in March, aquamarine is the March birthstone. With its breathtaking blue hues reminiscent of the ocean, aquamarine is the perfect representation of Pisces water signs. It has long been cherished for its beauty, symbolism, and historical significance. This mesmerizing gem has captivated people for centuries, not only for its striking appearance but also for its spiritual and healing properties. Whether set in jewelry or collected as loose aquamarine gemstones, this stone continues to be a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts and those celebrating a March birthday.
Aquamarine and bloodstone are March’s two birthstones, which are very different when it comes to appearance, but they share a similar reputation for protecting one’s well-being. The aquamarine birthstone evokes the colors of the sea. From deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue hues, faceted aquamarines are often free from inclusions and as clear as water, symbolizing purity of spirit and soul. The bloodstone birthstone is typically a dark-green cabochon that contains red spots of iron oxide, the “blood” that brings health and strength to the wearer. This article will focus exclusively on aquamarine, exploring its history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism.
History and Lore
Aquamarine derives its name from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), which perfectly describe its tranquil, oceanic color. The name aquamarine is derived from a combination of two Latin words: aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning the sea - the color of the sea. This gemstone has a deep-rooted history, dating back to ancient times when it was believed to bring protection and good fortune, particularly for sailors. Many seafarers carried aquamarine amulets, believing the gem would calm the waves and keep them safe during their voyages. Ancient mariners claimed the gem would calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea.
Beyond its maritime connections, aquamarine has been regarded as a stone of serenity, harmony, and clarity. Ancient Romans associated it with happiness and eternal youth, while medieval healers used it as a remedy for everything from eye ailments to stress relief. This March birthstone was also thought to bring happiness in marriage. Beryl was believed to give the wearer protection against foes in battle and litigation. It was also thought to make the wearer unconquerable and amiable, and to quicken the intellect.
Aquamarine is not only the birthstone for March, but the gem is also given as a present on the 19th wedding anniversary. As for famous ones, in 1936 the government of Brazil gave First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt a dark blue rectangular step cut aquamarine that weighed 1,298 carats (ct). This famous specimen highlights the gem's capacity for large, impressive sizes.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl. It is the name used for gem-quality specimens of the mineral beryl within a color range of greenish blue to blue. The name is used regardless of a stone's tone or saturation. So, aquamarines can range from a very light, almost imperceptible color to stones with a rich vibrant color.
Most aquamarine has a very light color, which can be almost unnoticeable in very small stones. Stones with a rich blue color are the most popular. They are also the rarest and most valuable. Aquamarine is best known as a highly transparent blue stone. Unlike emerald, the deep green variety of beryl, high-clarity, fracture-free aquamarine is abundant and more affordable. High-clarity, fracture-free stones are also more attractive and less likely to be damaged during wear.
While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided materials, the text mentions that Brazil is a significant source, evidenced by the gift to Eleanor Roosevelt. The geological occurrence of aquamarine is tied to beryl formation, which allows for large crystals to be found, contributing to its use in both faceted jewelry and as beads.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl mineral species. It is prized for its transparency and clarity. Nice pieces of translucent aquamarine are also used in jewelry. Translucent aquamarine is often cut into beads and sometimes cut as cabochons. Necklaces strung with beads of pastel blue aquamarine and pastel pink morganite (both color-varieties of the mineral beryl) make a beautiful combination.
The gemological identity of aquamarine is based upon mineral species and color. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) identifies it as Species: natural beryl, Variety: aquamarine. This identification holds true even for stones with distinctly translucent clarity and modest cutting styles, such as tumbled stones.
Key Properties Summary
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Beryl |
| Color Range | Greenish blue to blue |
| Transparency | Highly transparent to translucent |
| Clarity | Often free from inclusions; high-clarity, fracture-free stones are abundant |
| Common Cuts | Faceted (rings, earrings, pendants), beads, cabochons |
| Notable Feature | Can be found in very large crystal sizes |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Aquamarine is rich in symbolism, primarily linked to its ocean-like appearance. As a birthstone, it represents peace, clarity, and emotional balance. It is considered an ideal gift for anyone celebrating a birthday in this month.
Emotional and Spiritual Significance
The gem is associated with tranquility, courage, and harmony. It is believed to promote courage, calmness, and communication. Some sources suggest it aids in throat health and stress relief. Whether worn as jewelry or kept as a tumbled stone, aquamarine is considered a powerful tool for emotional balance and relaxation.
Cultural Connections
The association with sailors and protection at sea is a dominant theme. The belief that it calms waves translates metaphorically to calming emotions and bringing peace to the wearer. Its connection to the 19th wedding anniversary symbolizes harmony and longevity, representing a strong and enduring marriage.
Aquamarine in Jewelry
Aquamarine rings, earrings, and pendants are popular birthstone gifts. For those born in March, receiving an aquamarine gemstone as a gift is both meaningful and timeless. Whether in the form of a delicate necklace, an elegant bracelet, or even a set of loose aquamarine gemstones for a custom jewelry piece, this gem serves as a personal and symbolic present.
Aquamarine’s association with serenity and emotional healing makes it a thoughtful gift for someone going through a life transition or seeking inner peace. Its versatility also makes it a fantastic choice for various occasions, from birthdays and anniversaries to engagement rings and graduation gifts. The durability of high-clarity, fracture-free stones makes them suitable for daily wear.
Care and Cleaning
The physical properties of aquamarine dictate its care requirements. As a member of the beryl family, which includes emerald, aquamarine is generally durable. However, the materials note that high-clarity, fracture-free stones are "more attractive and less likely to be damaged during wear." This implies that stones with visible fractures or inclusions should be handled with greater care.
While specific cleaning instructions are not provided in the sources, the general gemological principle for beryl (hardness 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale) is to use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, especially if the stone has fractures.
Conclusion
Aquamarine stands as a timeless gemstone, deeply connected to the month of March. Its name, derived from the Latin for seawater, perfectly encapsulates its visual identity and historical lore. From ancient mariners seeking protection to modern jewelry enthusiasts valuing its clarity and calming blue hues, aquamarine has maintained its status as a cherished gem. It is a variety of beryl, prized for its transparency and range of color from light to vivid blue. Beyond its physical beauty, it carries significant symbolism regarding emotional balance, courage, and harmony. Whether chosen as a birthstone gift for a March birthday or as a traditional gem for a 19th wedding anniversary, aquamarine offers a connection to nature's tranquility and a rich history of human belief.