March Birthstone Aquamarine
MARCH BIRTHSTONE - AQUAMARINE
Reminiscent of a pool of sparkling water, aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is said to be a soothing influence on relationships and ensuring a long and happy marriage. Hence, why it is considered such a perfect gift on special occasions and to celebrate your 19th wedding anniversary.
AQUAMARINE MEANING & HISTORY
Exuding the tranquillity of the ocean, the name aquamarine translates to water of the sea and with its serene hues of blue and green we can see why.
One of the most famous aquamarines was presented to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1936 as a gift from the Brazilian government. A dark blue rectangular step-cut aquamarine that weighed 1,298 carats (ct). It is now housed at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York.
The government of Brazil gave this 1,298 ct rectangular step-cut aquamarine to Eleanor Roosevelt when she and President Roosevelt visited Rio de Janeiro in 1936. Courtesy: The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, Hyde Park, New York
AQUAMARINE FOLKLORE
For those interested in astrology, Aquamarine is also the Pisces birthstone, the twelfth and final sign of the Zodiac (20th February – 20th March) Pisces is one of the three signs ruled by the element of water.
Aquamarine is the blue variety of Beryl, a mineral composed of beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate, that changes colour according to what other minerals it comes into contact with as they form.
Did you know that Emerald and Morganite are also forms of Beryl?
Aquamarine is also a popular choice for weddings and fits perfectly if you’re looking for something blue.
WHERE ARE AQUAMARINES FOUND?
The most valued examples of this gemstone come from Brazil, but other areas include Pakistan, China, Myanmar, Russia, Ukraine and more recently in Africa. Nigeria and Mozambique have been mining some Aquamarine until it was also discovered in Kenya and Zambia in the 1980’s and Mozambique in the 90’s.
Mozambique Aquamarine - Santa Maria Afrique
Recently, some of the world's finest Aquamarine has been discovered in Mozambique. These gemstones rival the colours of the famous Santa Maria Aquamarine from Brazil, long recognized as the pinnacle of Aquamarine colour. These stunning gemstones have been named Santa Maria Afrique after their famous Brazilian counterparts.
AQUAMARINE BIRTHSTONE CARE AND CLEANING
Though aquamarine is a relatively tough gemstone, you should still be cautious about scratching, intense impacts, and exposure to heat. As with all gemstones, remove your aquamarine jewellery before using household cleaning solutions that may contain harsh chemicals.
With a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, this March birthstone is durable enough for everyday wear. Caring for the gem is easy. Use warm water, mild dish soap and a toothbrush to scrub behind the birthstone where dirt can collect.
