March is a month of transition, a bridge between the quiet of winter and the vibrant awakening of spring. This duality is reflected in its two official birthstones: aquamarine, with its serene blue hues reminiscent of the ocean, and peridot, glowing with a vibrant green that echoes the renewal of life. Both gems carry rich histories and distinct gemological profiles, offering a unique narrative for those born in March. Contemporary jewelry brand Kendra Scott has embraced this duality, integrating these stones into collections that blend timeless elegance with modern versatility. This article explores the gemological and cultural significance of aquamarine and peridot, examines their place in Kendra Scott’s designs, and provides a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts and collectors.
History and Lore
The association of specific gemstones with birth months has evolved over centuries, with modern standards largely formalized in the early 20th century. While the modern birthstone list for March includes both aquamarine and peridot, their historical paths to this designation are distinct.
Aquamarine’s lore is deeply tied to the sea. Its name derives from the Latin aqua marina, meaning "sea water," a direct reference to its captivating blue-green color. Historically, sailors and travelers carried aquamarine as a talisman for protection and safe passage across treacherous waters. Ancient Romans believed it was a stone of the god Neptune, imbued with the power to calm storms and ensure a safe voyage. Beyond its maritime connections, aquamarine was also associated with marital happiness and reuniting loved ones, making it a popular gem for engagement rings and gifts in various cultures. Its journey to becoming a recognized March birthstone is part of the broader tradition of assigning stones to specific months, a practice that gained significant popularity in the United States following the National Association of Jewelers' standardization efforts in 1912.
Peridot, in contrast, has a history that is both ancient and celestial. Often called the "evening emerald" for its soft glow in low light, peridot is one of the few gemstones that appears in a single color—olive green—though its hue can range from yellowish-green to a deep, intense olive. Its most famous historical source is the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which was mined by ancient Egyptians as early as 1500 B.C. The Egyptians revered peridot, calling it the "gem of the sun," and believed it offered protection against evil spirits and nightmares. It was used extensively in jewelry and religious artifacts, with some scholars suggesting that the many emeralds in the treasures of ancient Egypt were, in fact, peridot. Peridot’s inclusion as a March birthstone is a more modern development, though its historical significance is undeniable.
The dual birthstone status for March was officially recognized by the American Gem Society and later solidified in modern lists, offering those born in the month a choice between the tranquil blue of aquamarine and the vibrant green of peridot. This duality allows for personal expression, whether one is drawn to the calming influence of the sea or the energetic promise of new growth.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of these gems provides insight into their rarity and value. Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, with its characteristic blue color derived from trace amounts of iron within its crystal structure. It forms in pegmatites—large, coarse-grained igneous rocks—where beryl crystals can grow to impressive sizes. Major sources of high-quality aquamarine include Brazil, which is the world's leading producer, as well as Pakistan, Madagascar, and Mozambique. The most prized aquamarines are a deep, vivid blue, often with a slight greenish tint, and are typically heat-treated to enhance their color, a standard and accepted practice in the gem trade.
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate. Unlike many gemstones, peridot is not formed in pegmatites but in the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity and can also be found in certain meteorites, adding to its otherworldly allure. The most significant historical source was the island of Zabargad, but today, the majority of peridot comes from Arizona in the United States, as well as Pakistan, China, and Myanmar. Arizona peridot, particularly from the San Carlos Apache Reservation, is known for its vibrant, olive-green color. Peridot is not typically treated, as its color is inherent to its chemical composition.
Gemological Properties
The physical and optical characteristics of aquamarine and peridot define their durability, appearance, and suitability for jewelry. The following table summarizes key gemological properties based on standard references.
| Property | Aquamarine (Beryl) | Peridot (Olivine) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal | Orthorhombic |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 - 8 | 6.5 - 7 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.68 - 2.74 | 3.34 - 3.51 |
| Refractive Index | 1.567 - 1.590 | 1.654 - 1.690 |
| Durability | Excellent, with good toughness | Good, but can be brittle due to poor cleavage |
| Common Treatments | Heat treatment to improve color | Generally untreated |
Aquamarine’s hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale makes it exceptionally durable for everyday jewelry, resistant to scratching and wear. Its vitreous luster and excellent clarity are prized, with inclusions often referred to as "jardin" (French for garden), adding to its unique character. Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, is also suitable for jewelry but requires slightly more care to avoid scratches. It has a vitreous luster and can sometimes have inclusions, but high-quality peridot is prized for its transparency and vibrant color.
Kendra Scott’s Interpretation of March Birthstones
Kendra Scott, a brand known for its contemporary fine and demi-fine jewelry, has incorporated March birthstones into its collections with a focus on modern design and personalization. The brand’s approach emphasizes wearable, versatile pieces that blend the gemological and cultural significance of the stones with current jewelry trends.
Kendra Scott’s March birthstone collections feature both aquamarine and peridot, often using an "iridescent Light Blue Illusion stone" for aquamarine-inspired pieces, which may be a high-quality simulated or lab-created material designed to mimic the gem's tranquil hue. For peridot, the brand utilizes genuine gemstones to capture the stone's vibrant green glow. The designs range from minimalist pendants and bracelets to more statement-oriented rings, allowing customers to choose a style that reflects their personal taste.
The brand’s philosophy centers on jewelry that tells a story, and the inclusion of birthstones amplifies this narrative. Pieces are designed to be layered and stacked, encouraging wearers to build a personal collection that commemorates different milestones or relationships. The use of 14k gold-plated vermeil, sterling silver, and gold-plated brass provides options for various preferences and budgets, making these birthstone pieces accessible to a wide audience.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, both aquamarine and peridot are steeped in symbolism and metaphysical beliefs that have been passed down through generations.
Aquamarine is universally associated with calm, clarity, and communication. Its connection to the sea links it to emotional balance, intuition, and the soothing of stress. In crystal healing practices, aquamarine is believed to open the throat chakra, facilitating clear and honest communication. It is also thought to provide protection during travel, a belief rooted in its ancient history as a talisman for sailors. For those born in March, aquamarine symbolizes courage, tranquility, and the cleansing power of water.
Peridot, with its bright green color, is associated with growth, renewal, and prosperity. It is often called the "stone of compassion" and is believed to bring good fortune, health, and restful sleep. Ancient cultures, particularly the Egyptians, viewed peridot as a protective stone against negativity and evil spirits. In modern metaphysical beliefs, peridot is linked to the heart chakra, promoting emotional healing and fostering a sense of gratitude and openness. For March-born individuals, peridot represents vitality, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings.
These symbolic meanings add a layer of personal significance to jewelry featuring these stones, transforming them from mere accessories into meaningful tokens of identity and intention.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of jewelry featuring aquamarine and peridot. The gemological properties of each stone dictate specific maintenance guidelines.
Aquamarine, with its high hardness and good toughness, is relatively low-maintenance. It can be cleaned with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated and unheated aquamarine, but caution is advised for stones that have undergone fracture filling, though this is less common for aquamarine compared to other beryl varieties like emerald. Storing aquamarine jewelry separately from harder stones will prevent scratches.
Peridot, while durable, is more susceptible to damage due to its poor cleavage in two directions. This means it can break or chip if struck against a hard surface. Cleaning should be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is best to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as vibrations can cause existing fractures to worsen. Sudden temperature changes should also be avoided. Storing peridot jewelry in a soft cloth pouch will protect it from scratches and impacts.
For both stones, removing jewelry during strenuous activities, household chores, or exposure to chemicals (like cosmetics or chlorine) will help preserve their luster and integrity.
Conclusion
The March birthstones, aquamarine and peridot, offer a compelling study in contrast—one born of the sea, the other of the earth and fire. Their distinct histories, geological origins, and gemological properties provide a rich tapestry of information for gemstone enthusiasts. Kendra Scott’s contemporary interpretations make these timeless gems accessible and relevant for modern jewelry wearers, emphasizing personalization and versatile design. Whether drawn to the serene blue of aquamarine or the vibrant green of peridot, individuals born in March are connected to gemstones that embody both historical significance and personal meaning. Understanding their properties and symbolism allows for a deeper appreciation of these beautiful stones, ensuring they can be cherished and preserved for generations to come.