A Definitive Guide to the March Birthstone: Aquamarine

THE BASICS --

Offering clarity, coolness, and distinction, aquamarine is the perfect birthstone for March. Symbolic of water, aquamarine is well-honored in a month that includes all types of water, from the last of winter’s snow and ice to the first rains of spring.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About Aquamarine
• Color
• Healing Properties
• Meaning & Symbolism
• Crystal Uses
  
• Aquamarine Jewelry
• Other March Birthstones
• Choosing the March Birthstone

About Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl, the same mineral family as emerald. Known for its delicate color and excellent clarity, aquamarine was a popular gemstone in antique and vintage jewelry, particularly during the Art Deco era. Antique aquamarine engagement rings often feature larger gemstones set in platinum or white gold, sometimes accented with old-cut diamonds and intricate metalwork. With a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is reasonably durable, although care should be taken to protect it from scratches and impacts. Found in countries including Brazil, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Madagascar, aquamarine remains a distinctive choice for those seeking an authentic vintage engagement ring.

Color

Aquamarine ranges from pale, watery blue to deeper blue and blue-green shades, with its color primarily influenced by traces of iron within the mineral. While lighter shades are common, richly saturated blue aquamarines are generally more desirable. Heat treatment is sometimes used to reduce greenish tones and produce a purer blue color. Maxixe is a rare, intensely blue variety of beryl whose color can fade with exposure to light. Aquamarine was also featured in Retro engagement rings of the 1940s, when larger colored gemstones and bold gold settings became popular.

Meaning & Symbolism

Aquamarines are intimately associated with the tranquility of the sea, both by oceanic color tones and nearly flawless beauty, reminiscent of peering into a clear pool of water or into the depths of a pristine droplet. Aquamarine has been used as a protective talisman for sailors and passengers on ocean liners or any vessel, as long ago as in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations and continuing to this day.

As an ocean-associated stone, aquamarine is the birthstone associated not only with the watery month of March, but also with the zodiac sign for the fish, Pisces (February 19 through March 20). The gem is also the symbolic stone for the nineteenth wedding anniversary, and an alternative choice for the eighteenth wedding anniversary.

In 1971, aquamarine was selected as the official state gem of Colorado, a state well known for its rushing waters and rapids, as well as amazing snowfall – representing water in all its forms. In general, aquamarine is also considered a stone of harmony and peace, symbolizing the unspoiled freshness of youth and the rebirth of spring.

Crystal Uses

Aquamarine is often used for meditation and reflection, as it promotes harmony, peace, and trust. The crystal is also said to ease communication and improve public speaking, as well as enhance inner courage and permit one to truly follow their deepest values. Aquamarine shields the aura, opening intuition and providing overall protection. Because it washes away concerns and anxiety, aquamarine is also believed to help overcome procrastination and laziness.

Healing Properties

Apart from its psychological properties, aquamarine is also believed to have a variety of physical healing properties. This crystal is said to contribute to eye health and visual clarity because of the stone’s own open and nearly flawless crystal structure, and its association with the sea is believed to have given aquamarine the power to prevent or alleviate seasickness.

Pregnant women may wish to wear aquamarine to lessen unpleasant pregnancy symptoms and provide protection to the waters of womb cradling the unborn child. Aquamarine is also believed to have some healing affect on sore throats and swollen glands, and when worn against the throat and touching the skin, aquamarine will have the strongest curative properties.

Aquamarine Jewelry

Aquamarine has been used in jewelry for centuries, admired for its delicate blue color and excellent clarity. Its naturally large crystals make it particularly suitable for statement pieces, including brooches, pendants, and rings. During the Art Deco era, aquamarine became especially popular in bold geometric settings and oversized vintage cocktail rings, often accented with diamonds.

Aquamarine was frequently set in platinum or white gold during the Art Deco period, although yellow gold settings can also complement its blue color. Diamond accents add contrast and sparkle, while delicate filigree and open metalwork highlight the gemstone in antique and vintage designs. With its attractive color, clarity, and availability in larger sizes, aquamarine remains a popular choice for authentic antique aquamarine engagement rings and vintage gemstone jewelry.

Other March Birthstones

While aquamarine is the traditional March birthstone, alternative gemstones include bloodstone and jasper. These stones are often associated with vitality, courage, and strength, complementing the traits of March-born individuals, particularly those under the sign of Pisces. These alternatives provide unique options for anyone seeking a more personalized connection to the month of March.

Choosing The March Birthstone

Discover the beauty in the March birthstone and you'll soon agree that every aquamarine ring has precious qualities that make it charming and unique. Explore our collection of vintage aquamarine rings and find the perfect piece that reflects your unique style and story.

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.