March Birthstone: Aquamarine | Color, Meaning & History
March has a beautiful birthstone – Aquamarine, which is known for its delicate blue-green color. Representing purity and tranquility, aquamarine has a rich history and has been treasured by civilizations for centuries. In this article, we’ll delve into the meaning, color, history, and care of this stunning gemstone.
What Is The Meaning Of March Birthstone?
Aquamarine is associated with many meanings and significant symbolism. It is believed to bring calmness, harmony, and serenity to the wearer.
The stone’s name comes from the Latin words “aqua” and “marina,” which mean water and sea, respectively. Aquamarine is, therefore, often linked with the ocean because of its distinctive blue-green color that ranges from pale blue to dark greenish-blue.
Additionally, the gemstone is linked with courage and clarity, often being compared to clarity of thought and pureness of spirit.
Aside from its calming properties, aquamarine is also believed to have healing powers. It is said to help with throat and respiratory issues, as well as allergies and autoimmune diseases. The stone is also thought to aid in communication and self-expression, making it a popular choice for those in creative fields or public speaking.
In ancient times, aquamarine was even believed to protect sailors and ensure a safe voyage across the sea. Today, it remains a popular gemstone for jewelry and is often given as a gift for those born in March or celebrating a 19th wedding anniversary.
March Birthstone Color
The Aquamarine color is typically a light to medium blue-green color, but it is also found in green, yellow, and pink shades. The intensity of the color can vary depending on the gemstone, with darker stones being more valuable.
The durable nature of aquamarine makes it a popular gemstone for jewelry, especially for engagement and wedding rings. In fact, pale blue aquamarine jewelry gained popularity during the Art Deco period of the early 20th century.
Aquamarine is not only a popular gemstone for jewelry, but it also has a rich history of being used for healing and spiritual purposes. It is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and to promote feelings of peace and tranquility.
In ancient times, it was used as a talisman for sailors, who believed it would protect them from the dangers of the sea.
Today, aquamarine is still highly valued for its beauty and symbolism. It is often given as a gift to celebrate March birthdays, as well as to mark 19th wedding anniversaries.
Whether you wear it for its aesthetic appeal or its spiritual significance, aquamarine is a gemstone that is sure to capture your heart.
What Is March Birthstone?
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March, and it is a type of mineral called beryl. Other beryl minerals include emerald and morganite. The largest aquamarine ever found weighed over 240 pounds and was discovered in Brazil in the 1950s.
The gemstone is famous for its beautiful color, durability and high level of transparency. Additionally, aquamarine is often found in large sizes, making it an excellent choice for statement jewelry.
In addition to being the birthstone for March, aquamarine is also believed to have healing properties. It is said to promote calmness, clarity, and mental balance. Some people also believe that aquamarine can help with communication and self-expression, making it a popular choice for those who work in creative fields or who struggle with public speaking.
Whether you wear it for its beauty or its supposed healing properties, aquamarine is a stunning gemstone that is sure to turn heads.
Where Is The Aquamarine Found?
The largest producer of aquamarine is Brazil. Other countries that have deposits of aquamarine include the United States, Nigeria, Madagascar, Tanzania, and Kenya. The best aquamarine stones are found in Brazil, where they are mined from granite rocks, pegmatites, and alluvial deposits.
In addition to Brazil, aquamarine can also be found in other parts of South America, such as Colombia and Zambia. These countries are known for producing high-quality aquamarine stones with unique color variations.
It is interesting to note that aquamarine is not only found on Earth but also in outer space. In 2004, NASA discovered a large deposit of aquamarine on Mars, which was believed to have been formed by volcanic activity.
Aquamarine Care And Cleaning
Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear. But like all gemstones, it needs proper care and cleaning to keep its beauty intact. To clean aquamarine, use warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush to get rid of any dirt and debris that accumulates on its surface.
Avoid using harsh chemicals, steam cleaning, or ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage the stone. Always store aquamarine jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching and chipping.
It is also important to avoid exposing aquamarine to extreme temperatures and sudden changes in temperature. This can cause the stone to crack or fracture. When not wearing your aquamarine jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Additionally, it is recommended to have your aquamarine jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected every few years to ensure its longevity and beauty.
Conclusion
Aquamarine is a beautiful and meaningful gemstone that has been admired and cherished for centuries. As the birthstone for March, it represents the water and the sea, tranquility, and harmony. With its versatile color, durability and stunning sparkle, it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings as well as other statement pieces.
Whether you’re looking to wear it for fashion or to tap into its healing properties, take good care of your aquamarine jewelry and enjoy the unique beauty it has to offer for years to come.
It is believed that aquamarine has healing properties that can benefit the wearer in many ways. It is said to promote calmness, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance communication skills.
It is also believed to have a positive effect on the immune system and help with various throat and respiratory issues. Whether you believe in the healing properties of aquamarine or not, there’s no denying its beauty and elegance. So, if you’re looking for a gemstone that’s not only stunning but also has a deeper meaning, aquamarine is definitely worth considering.
