March’s lovely gemstone is the ever beautiful blue and tranquil aquamarine. It is a semi-precious stone in the beryl family and is related to the emerald. Aquamarine originally derived from the latin words “aqua marina” which means sea water which is fitting since the most common color is a natural blue but it can have variations in transparency and clarity and it’s color can be a slightly greenish blue.
Along with it’s association with the ocean it is no surprise that legends say sailors used to wear these gems around their necks to protect them while at sea. It is associated with the month of March and relates to the Zodiac sign Pieces. The tradition of giving gemstones as birthstone gifts dates back many hundreds of years and aquamarine is also the wedding anniversary gemstone for the 19th year of marriage.
The symbolism of Aquamarine is faithfulness, courage, and friendship. In early times it is said to give the wearer a sense of foresight and happiness. It would increase intelligence and could make one feel youthful. In gemstone healing it was used in the Middle Ages to reduce the effect of poisons and is said to help with treatment of anxiety.
The biggest Aquamarine stone ever found was in Brazil in 1910 weighing at 243 pounds. It was cut into smaller stones which yielded over 200,000 carats.
I am always drawn to aquamarine in my designs because of it’s cool and calming color. It is often a favorite of my customers as well.
