March’s birthstone, the aquamarine: The color of water, with the depth of the ocean

If you want to look into the soul of the seas, then March’s birthstone, the aquamarine, is waiting for you. Its name actually comes from the Latin for “sea water” and it was believed to keep people safe during ocean voyages.

The aquamarine is a form of the mineral beryl and can be found in large crystals. That’s why you’ll see big, dramatic jewelry with this stone. It ranges from blue to blue-green, and gets its color from the iron oxides that form within the stone. When beryl is green, it’s an emerald (so the aquamarine comes from a good family). It’s relatively hard (with a Mohs rating of 7.5-8), which makes it practical for rings, pendants, and bracelets.

Why we love aquamarines

Here are three reasons, as given by the GIA:

• Its beautiful 6-sided crystals have been known to grow to more than 6 feet long.
• It’s exceptionally transparent with vitreous luster, so it really sparkles.
• 

  Courtesy of Koblenz Jewelry

  It’s dichroic, which means that its color can change from colorless to stronger blue in different crystal directions.

To these three, I add, we love it because it’s SO SO beautiful!

Aquamarine crystal meanings

• With its association with water and the sea, it’s believed to help in soothing the soul, inspiring trust and letting go.
• It’s said to be an excellent medium for meditating and revelation.
• It has had associations with helping lovers resolve issues, and for strengthening marriages.

If you’re buying an aquamarine

• The most valuable hues are a strong dark blue to a slightly greenish blue.
• Look for stones that are clear to the eye, without visible inclusions.
• Much of the aquamarine in the market has been heat-treated to enhance its color.
• It’s often cut into an emerald cut to show off its brilliance, or in a round cut.

Courtesy of GIA

For your March birthstone or your sea voyages, the aquamarine is one of nature’s most luscious gemstones. If you have aquamarine jewelry in your possession, be sure to have it appraised! Call me at (617) 304-0174 or email me at aimee@ambappraisal.com and we can take care of it.

Dreaming of voyages to come, Aimee