The birthstone for March is aquamarine, which is associated with tranquility, clarity, and hope. It’s also believed to have healing properties.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is the gem used to celebrate a 19th anniversary.
Aquamarines are a variety of the gem species beryl, making them a close cousin of the emerald. Its name is a marriage of two Latin words; aqua, which simply means “water”, and marina, which means “of the sea”. As the name suggests, much of the lore surrounding the stone connects it to the ocean. Some claimed the gem would calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea, bring happiness in marriage, give wearers clarity of speech, and keep them calm in the face of anger or conflict.
A beauty any way you look at it
Aquamarine is a pleochroic gem. Pleochroism means “more colors,” and aquamarines show two or three depending on the angle from which they are viewed. Beryl crystals grow in long, six sided columns which can appear colorless, but when viewed lengthwise the vibrant hues suddenly appear. This allows cutters to orient the faceted stones faceup to align with the length of the column, which also allows them to make judicious use of the rough stone and fashion large pieces with a minimum of waste.
In general, the purer and more intense the color, the more valuable the stone, and the most prized color is a darker blue with a slightly greenish hue, with a moderately strong intensity. Aquamarines are ranked 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, which measures a mineral’s resistance to scratching. This high score indicates an equally high level of durability, which makes them easy to clean, usually with mild dish soap, warm water, and a toothbrush. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are safe, too, if there are no fractures in the gem. Be sure to contact Joslin’s for expert care and service for your valuable gems!
Subtle but spectacular
Aquamarine jewelry is a great gift because, while beautiful, it does not scream, “Look at me! Look at me!,” as other gems do. The larger sizes lend themselves to creating real statement pieces that are unique, versatile, and long-lasting. The sentiments attached to aquamarines are lovely, and knowing the meaning of the stone, beyond the occasion for which it is gifted, adds another precious element to that very special occasion.
Fun Facts about the Aquamarine:
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- Comes from the Latin words aqua (water) and mare (sea)
- Symbolism: Purity, youth, health, hope, tranquility, clarity, harmony
- Lore: Believed to have originated from the jewel caskets of sirens
- Hardness: Ranks 7.5 to 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it fairly sturdy
- Uses: Some believe it can ease anxiety, increase mental clarity, and promote healing from past traumas
- Folklore: Ancient mariners believed it would calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea
- Other beliefs: In the Middle Ages, people believed that wearing aquamarine would prevent them from being poisoned
If you’re searching for the perfect birthday gift, check out our necklaces, earrings and rings – Joslin’s offers a wide selection that’s sure to delight! Maybe you’re looking to craft something special this year; Joslin’s can help! Just check out Elicia’s custom designs and know that at Joslin’s we’ll help you create or encounter the perfect piece for your loved one – or even for yourself!
