A Gift from the Mermaids: Aquamarine, March’s Birthstone

Do you love being near the ocean? March’s birthstone, the aquamarine, can keep those waves close to you all year-round. Its blue-green depths are as clear and bottomless as the sea.

Aquamarine gets its name from the Latin “aqua marina,” or “sea water.” Early sailors believed that it was a gift from the mermaids—and that it would protect them on the seas. In fact, one of the reasons that it’s March’s birthstone is its watery connection with the month’s zodiac water sign, Pisces.

What is aquamarine?

It’s part of the beryl family, which includes emerald and morganite. Rated 7.8 on the Mohs hardness scale, aquamarine is hard enough for everyday wear, with a wide variety of gemstone cutting styles and shapes.

Did you know?

• The largest aquamarine ever found was a 243-pound gemstone! It was cut into more than 100,000 carats of stones.
• Healing properties: The aquamarine is known as the “Stone of Courage and Protection.” Some believe that it aids in calming, soothing, and cleansing—helps wearers let go. The stone is said to be a symbol of faithfulness, courage, and friendship.
• Ancient Romans believed that the aquamarine could provide everlasting youth.
• People used to believe that carrying an aquamarine during an ocean voyage would keep them from getting seasick.

Buying tips

According to the GIA, the best examples of aquamarine combine high clarity and transparency with blue-to-slightly greenish-blue hues. The color is graded on its hue, tone, and saturation—warm or cool shade, light or dark color, and whether the color is dull or vivid.  

Taking care of your aquamarine jewelry

At-home care is relatively easy. As the GIA writes, “Use warm water, mild dish soap and a toothbrush to scrub behind the birthstone where dirt can collect. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are usually safe options as long as there are no fractures or liquid inclusions in the gem.”

I love the crisp, clean look of a well-cut aquamarine. And if you’re a March birthday baby—or if you love having a touch of the ocean (and mermaids) near you, a beautiful piece of aquamarine jewelry should be on your list.

When you get your aquamarine baubles, make sure you include a professional appraisal so you can insure it and keep it safe. Contact me or call 617-304-0174 to get it done.

Brilliantly yours, Aimee