March’s birthstone may not be as popular as quartz or exciting as pearls, but it’s still an amazing stone, making it one of the more underrated gemstones around. It doesn’t have an extensive history with humans like amethyst or rubies, but it is very interesting to look at how aquamarine played a role in our ancestor’s lives. From falling out of mermaid’s treasure chests to being used as the ultimate healing stone, aquamarine is still an important stone in the jewellery industry. Keep reading if you want to know why you should appreciate this blue gem.
1. March’s Birthstone Etymology
Aquamarine comes from the Latin word, “aqua marinus” translates to “seawater.”
This is fitting considering that sailors used to carry aquamarine with them while travelling for extended periods of time. They believed that the stone possessed the power to protect them ailments like seasickness and accidents.
Ancient Romans also gave meaning to aquamarine. They said this stone was sacred to their god Neptune, ruler of the sea. Aquamarine had fallen from the jewel box of vicious mermaids and into the ocean. Some had washed up onto sea, and others landed in his possession.
2. It’s a type of Beryl
When it comes down to it, the chemicals in March’s birthstone make it part of the beryl stones, similar to morganite and emerald. This family of gemstones usually can be found with hexagonal crystals.
3. More than Just a Birthstone!
Aquamarine may be March’s birthstone, but that’s not all it represents. It’s also incorporated into 19th wedding anniversary gifts and is considered the official stone for the Scorpio Zodiac sign.
4. The Bluer, the Better
Aquamarine can range in different shades of blue and sometimes a light green, but sky blue and sometimes bluish-green hues are considered to be the most valuable. Again, because it’s all about how saturated the blue colour is, even if you compare two aquamarines with the same cut, clarity, and carat, the bluer one will be more valuable. Often this stone is heat-treated to enrich the colour, but there are jewellery pieces that haven’t been treated yet still have beautiful tones.
5. Giant Aquamarine
The largest aquamarine was found in Brazil’s Minas Gerais region in 1910. It weighed a whopping 244 lbs (or 110 kg) and was surprisingly almost perfectly round. Since then, other large gems were found in surrounding areas, including the Marta Rocha aquamarine at 76.27lbs (34.54kg), and Estrela de Alva aquamarine weighing 42.32lbs (19.19kg).
Makes sense since Brazil is considered to be the aquamarine capital of the world!
6. Healing Jewellery
Jewellery using aquamarine can be traced back to about 500 B.C. Of course aquamarine is gorgeous, but another reason people used it to deck out their bling is because it was believed to have healing powers. After all, keep your enemies close and your jewellery closer!
7. The Healing Stone
Throughout history, aquamarine has been associated with healing. Aside from the sailors mentioned before, many have used its powers for good. Ancient Romans believed it would cure medical problems associated with the liver, stomach, and throat, while in the Middle Ages, healers used it to reduce anxiety and poisoning. Some use it to calm the nerves. March’s birthstone is more than just a pretty rock, it’s useful, too!
8. A Powerful Meditation Tool
When it comes to healing and meditation, aquamarine is said to be a good choice. Whether you’re looking for something to keep you calm or to help you have positive interactions with people, you can’t go wrong with March’s birthstone.
9. A Durable Stone
Aquamarine is somewhere between a 7.5 and 8 on the Moh’s scale, making it durable enough to wear every day but still delicate enough to need proper care. Keep that in mind when you’re shopping for jewellery with March’s birthstone.
10. Fit for a Queen
In 1953, Queen Elizabeth II received her famous aquamarine necklace and earring set from the then-president of Brazil as a coronation gift on behalf of Brazilian citizens. Later, in 1957, the Queen had also commissioned a matching tiara. Later, by 1968, she also acquired a matching bracelet and brooch once again from the people of Brazil. Since then she’s had work done to slightly alter these pieces over the years, but they haven’t been seen since 2011.
11. Perfect for Creative Designers!
Aquamarine is perfect for anyone looking to come up with creative cuts! March’s birthstone is so clear that many like to stick with the emerald/step cut, but many come up with their own unique designs for cutting this amazing gemstone! It’s particularly great for jewellery designers who want to set themselves apart from others, or those looking for an alternative engagement ring design.
