Aquamarine: the History and Meaning of March's Birthstone
Aquamarine is the beautiful aquatic blue birthstone for people born in March.
What are the characteristics of aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a light pastel greenish-blue gemstone from the variety of beryl. Traces of iron make it that light, attractive color. In the 19th century, sea-green aquamarine was highly valued, but now, pure sky blue is the most sought-after hue. Most aquamarine stones are sourced from Brazil, but there are also deposits across Africa and in Russia, Pakistan, and Colorado (USA).
It is a clear, well-formed gemstone and rated 7.5-8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it good for daily wear. This grade means aquamarine is much harder than many gemstones, including turquoise. However, aquamarine can still be scratched, so it is important to properly take care of your jewelry.
What family of gemstones is aquamarine from?
Aquamarine is from the variety of beryl (which also includes emerald, morganite, heliodor, golden beryl, goshenite, red beryl, pezzottaite, and green beryl). Aquamarine is formed in pegmatites, which is a type of igneous rock.
What does aquamarine symbolize?
The name "aquamarine" means "sea water". Aquamarine is thought to provide protection in battle, make the wearer unconquerable, and give them intellect. In ancient times, aquamarine amulets engraved with the face of Poseidon were thought to provide protection for sailors when on a journey.
What jewelry can feature aquamarine?
Aquamarine can be used in necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Aquamarine engagement rings are also extremely popular. The gemstones can be fairly large, so they can also be cut in different shapes.
Aquamarine is a versatile gemstone. It can be featured in a vintage-style pendant or the centerpiece of an ultra-modern step cut ring. It also complements a diamond very well. No matter what you choose to create, our designers will help you every step of the way.
What is the price range for an aquamarine?
The price range for aquamarine varies depending on the carat size, color intensity, and cut, and clarity. More color intensity means higher value. Some aquamarine gemstones are heat-treated to make them more blue. This process does not damage the gemstone, but non-heated stones are more rare. Aquamarines will not lose their color over time.
Although aquamarine is a semi-precious gemstone, it is still more expensive than topaz, amethyst, and garnet, to name a few. It is roughly the same price range as morganite, but of course, there is a wide range of quality factors that determine the value of a gemstone.
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