March Birthstone - The Definitive Guide (2023)

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’ssnow and ice to the first rains of spring.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• What is the March birthstone?
• March birthstone formation
• March birthstone mines
• March birthstone color formations
• March birthstone crystal uses
• March birthstone healing properties
• 18 & 90 year anniversary
• March birthstone rings & jewelry
• Eco-friendly
• March birthstone care tips

What is The March Birthstone?

Aquamarine, as the March birthstone, 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. The deeper the blue color of the aquamarine, the more coveted or valuable it will be.

•  March Birthstone Formation

Often naturally flawless, the March birthstone 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. Aluminum, iron and silicon are part of the stone's crystal structure and give it the distinctive color. The overall color intensity can vary based on the proportions of different minerals in the crystal structure as well as any heat exposure or irradiation, and darker, richer shades are both rarer and more highly valued.

•  March Birthstone Mines

The March birthstone is found worldwide, and is mined in many areas, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Russia, Pakistan, Madagascar, Vietnam, India, China, and the United States.

•  March Birthstone Color Variations

Depending on chemical inclusions – typically aluminum, iron, or silicon – in the stone’s crystalline structure, aquamarine ranges from very light, watery blue to delicate blue-green hues. In general, the gem is always a lighter shade, but darker, deeper shades are found on rare occasions. The deepest blue aquamarine is classified as maxixe. 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.

March Birthstone Meaning & Symbolism

As the March birthstone, 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.

•  March Birthstone Crystal Uses

Aquamarine as the March birthstone 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.

•  March Birthstone 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.

18 & 90 Year Anniversary

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.

March Birthstone 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.

•  Eco-Friendly

Using only vintage and antique gemstones is a great way to be eco-friendly as aquamarines were originally mined long before modern conflicts. Aquamarines with diamond accents, such as in a halo setting, increase aquamarine’s sparkle, and open metalwork, popular in Victorian, Edwardian and mid-century 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.

March Birthstone Care Tips

Aquamarine is reasonably durable with a 7.5-8 rating on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness and should be cleaned regularly to keep it free of dust, dirt, oils, and other debris that can cloud the stone and diminish its brilliance and sparkle. The cleaning method will vary depending on the ring’s metal and which other gemstones it has, but in general it is best to never use any strong chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or sharp implements to clean an engagement ring.

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

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