The Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism of the March Birthstone

The Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism of the March Birthstone

by Suzanne Sachs   •   5 min read

This blog explores the history, meaning, symbolism, and unique characteristics of the March birthstone, delving into why aquamarines have captivated hearts and minds for centuries and what makes them particularly special for those born in March.

THE BASICS ---

Aquamarines are treasured gemstones, often chosen for engagements, weddings, and anniversaries, but they hold even greater significance for those born in March. As the official birthstone for the month, aquamarines embody tranquility, clarity, and protection. While their beauty is widely admired, how much do you truly know about this captivating March birthstone?

NEED TO KNOW ---

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About the March Birthstone
  
• Spiritual Meaning Behind an Aquamarine
  
• Mystical Properties
• Tranquility and Calm
  
• Harmony and Communication
  
• Birthstone and Anniversary
• Aquamarine Color
• Aquamarine Mines
• Conflict Free
• History
• Aquamarine Rings and Jewelry
• Other March Birthstones
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Is an Aquamarine Ring Right for Me?

About the March Birthstone

Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a variety of the mineral beryl, distinguished by its stunning blue to greenish-blue hues. Their captivating color comes from trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure. Aquamarines form in large hexagonal crystals, which contribute to their excellent clarity and brilliance when cut. Known for their remarkable durability and resistance to scratches, aquamarines are a popular choice for jewelry. While not as hard as diamonds, aquamarines still rank highly on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them a reliable and beautiful gemstone for everyday wear.  

Spiritual Meaning Behind an Aquamarine

Aquamarines carry a profound spiritual symbolism that resonates with tranquility, clarity, and emotional balance. Unlike diamonds, which symbolize enduring and unbreakable bonds, aquamarines embody the calming energy of the sea, making them a symbol of harmony and trust. Associated with courage, inner peace, and communication, these gems encourage honest self-expression and strengthen relationships through open dialogue and mutual understanding. Their serene blue tones reflect purity, innocence, and renewal, making aquamarines an ideal gemstone for those seeking a sense of calm, strength, and emotional resilience in life and love.

• Tranquility and Calm

Aquamarines are deeply connected to the calming energy of the sea, symbolizing peace and serenity. They are believed to soothe emotions, reduce stress, and bring a sense of balance to one’s life.

• Courage and Inner Strength

Known as a stone of courage, aquamarines inspire confidence and resilience. They are thought to empower individuals to face challenges with clarity and poise, fostering inner strength and determination.

• Harmony and Communication

Aquamarines are associated with open communication and understanding, making them symbols of trust and harmony. They are said to encourage honest expression and strengthen relationships through deeper emotional connections.

• Birthstone and Anniversary

Aquamarine is the official birthstone for the month of March. Known for its tranquil blue hues, aquamarine is often associated with serenity and harmony. Beyond being a March birthstone, it is also the traditional gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolizing long-lasting love, trust, and communication in a relationship. 

Aquamarine Color

Aquamarines are renowned for their stunning blue to greenish-blue hues, which evoke the serene beauty of the sea. Their captivating color is the result of trace amounts of iron within the beryl crystal structure during formation. Lighter shades of aquamarine are more common, while deeply saturated blue tones are rarer and highly prized. The most desirable aquamarines display a vibrant and evenly distributed color, often referred to as "Santa Maria" blue. While heat treatments are sometimes used to enhance the intensity of the blue color, naturally colored aquamarines are especially valued for their authenticity and charm. 

Aquamarine Mines

Aquamarines form deep within the Earth’s crust, developing in pegmatite rocks under specific conditions of heat and pressure. These captivating gemstones are then brought closer to the surface through geological processes over millions of years. The finest aquamarines are sourced from a variety of locations around the world, each producing stones with unique characteristics. Brazil is the most famous source, particularly for its "Santa Maria" aquamarines, which are prized for their deep, vivid blue hues. Other notable mining locations include Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and Mozambique, all known for producing high-quality aquamarines. 

Conflict-Free

Aquamarines are widely regarded as an ethically sourced gemstone, as their mining is typically free from the conflicts often associated with other gemstones, such as diamonds. Most aquamarines are sourced from regions where mining practices are regulated to minimize environmental impact and ensure fair labor conditions. Additionally, opting for vintage or antique aquamarine jewelry is an excellent way to support sustainability, as these pieces were crafted long before modern ethical concerns arose. By choosing aquamarines, you can enjoy their beauty with confidence, knowing they often come with a lower ethical and environmental footprint.

History

Aquamarines have captivated people for centuries, with their serene blue hues evoking the beauty and tranquility of the sea. The name "aquamarine" comes from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), reflecting the gem's oceanic inspiration. Ancient Romans believed aquamarines were the treasure of mermaids and used them as talismans to protect sailors and ensure safe voyages. They were also thought to bring luck and happiness in marriage, making them a favored wedding gift.

While aquamarines have long been treasured by royalty and collectors, they gained significant prominence in the modern era. In the 19th and 20th centuries, aquamarines became a popular choice for fine jewelry, especially during the Art Deco period when their cool, vibrant hues complemented bold geometric designs. Today, aquamarines remain a beloved gemstone for their timeless beauty and rich history, celebrated as the official birthstone for March.