Birthstone For March - The Aquamarine (2024)
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
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. But aquamarine's beauty extends far beyond one month, and the more you know about this gorgeous gemstone, the more you will want to wear it every day of the year.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- About the March Birthstone
- March Birthstone Color
- Aquamarine Meaning
- Aquamarine Symbolism
- Aquamarine Crystal
- Aquamarine Healing Properties
- Vintage Aquamarine Rings & Jewelry
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Other March Birthstones
- Choosing the Ideal March Birthstone
About the March Birthstone
Aquamarine is a light blue shade of the silicate mineral beryl, the same mineral that, when it is a deep, rich green, is classified as emerald. Often naturally flawless, aquamarine has a hexagonal structure and is an ideal gem for larger carat sizes, especially since it is reasonably durable with a 7.5-8 rating on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Found worldwide, aquamarine is mined in many areas, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Russia, Pakistan, Madagascar, Vietnam, India, China, and the United States.
March Birthstone Color
While blue is the signature color of the March birthstone, aquamarine actually comes in a range of blue shades, from light, watery blues to delicate blue-green hues. Depending on chemical inclusions—typically aluminum, iron, or silicon-in the stone’s crystalline structure, aquamarine can display both light and, on rare occasions, deeper shades. The rarest and deepest blue aquamarine, known as maxixe, is particularly prized for its vibrant color and rarity, adding to the gemstone's allure.
Heat treatments can deepen color shades of aquamarine, and while this can create more desirable, richer colors, treated stones may be considered less valuable than naturally colored aquamarines.
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Aquamarine Meaning
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.
Aquamarine Symbolism
Aquamarine is often associated with tranquility, clarity, and harmony. Its serene blue color evokes the calmness of the sea, symbolizing peace and emotional balance. In ancient times, aquamarine was believed to protect sailors and ensure safe voyages, making it a symbol of protection and courage. Today, the stone is often connected to communication and inner strength, believed to enhance clarity of thought, reduce stress, and promote self-expression. As the March birthstone, aquamarine is also linked to renewal and eternal youth, making it a meaningful and cherished gemstone for those seeking balance and serenity in their lives.
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.
Aquamarine Crystal
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.
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Aquamarine 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.
Vintage Aquamarine Rings & Jewelry
With so much symbolism and useful properties for meditation and healing, it is no surprise that aquamarine has been used in amazing jewelry pieces for centuries. The gem's large crystals and generally flawless quality make it suitable for larger pieces such as brooches, pendants, and rings, and aquamarine was particularly popular in the Art Deco period in larger pieces and flashy cocktail rings.
Aquamarine looks best when mounted in white gold or silver to protect its pure color, though the stone is occasionally mounted in yellow gold as well. Diamond accents, such as in a halo setting, increase aquamarine’s sparkle, and open metalwork, popular in Victorian and Edwardian designs, brings additional light into the gem so its color is more intense.
Because aquamarine is relatively abundant and mined all over the world, it has been a popular gemstone for many years, and is easy to find in vintage and period pieces. Relatively inexpensive for its size and quality, aquamarine can make a stunning statement in a favorite piece, or can be a popular accent throughout any jewelry collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the March Birthstone?
The March birthstone is aquamarine, a beautiful gemstone known for its tranquil blue to blue-green hues, and is often associated with the sea and peaceful energy.
Is aquamarine suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, aquamarine is suitable for everyday wear due to its hardness and durability. With a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, it is fairly resistant to scratches and can withstand daily use.
What does aquamarine symbolize?
Aquamarine symbolizes tranquility, clarity, and harmony. Its calming blue color is often associated with the sea, representing peace, relaxation, and emotional balance. The gemstone is also believed to promote clear communication, enhance self-expression, and inspire courage.
Other March Birthstones
While aquamarine serves as the traditional birthstone for March, alternative systems of astrology and healing suggest various other gemstones and crystals that are believed to resonate with the energies and traits of March birthdays. Depending on one's astrological perspective or spiritual beliefs, alternative birthstones associated with March birthdays may include bloodstone and jasper. These stones are thought to complement and harmonize with the unique qualities and characteristics of those born under the sign of Pisces and March birthdays.
Choosing the Ideal March Birthstone
The March birthstone offers not only a beautiful gemstone but also a rich history filled with symbolism and meaning. By learning more about the unique qualities of these vintage pieces, you'll be better prepared to choose a ring that resonates with your personal style and story. Explore our collection of vintage aquamarine rings and find the perfect piece to celebrate your journey and create new memories for years to come.
Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:
No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.
Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:
Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of March Birthstone Rings today!
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.
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