An exquisite gemstone said to be the 'treasure of mermaids'

As the first signs of Spring unfold, those with a birthday in this blustery month can celebrate with the beautiful and versatile gemstone that is aquamarine.

What is Aquamarine and where is it found?

The word aquamarine is derived from the Latin words aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning sea. True to its name, the gemstone embodies the colours of the ocean, ranging from pale blues and greens to deeper azure tones, and invokes the tranquillity of calm waters.

Aquamarine belongs to the Beryl family of gemstones, along with emerald and morganite. It is renowned for its remarkable clarity and transparency and owes its beautiful colour to the presence of iron within its crystal structure. During the 19th century specimens of aquamarine exhibiting sea green tones were particularly popular and many antique jewellery pieces will feature stones of this colour. However, today it is the deep intense blue aquamrines that are the most prized.

Aquamarine is found in many locations around the world, including Nigeria, Kenya, Madagascar, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Pakistan, China, Sri Lanka, the USA and Australia. However, the most prolific supplier of aquamarines is Brazil where some of the largest aquamarine crystals have been discovered (including a stone weighing over 240 pounds!). The finest Brazilian specimens come from the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Means Gerais – these stones often exhibit the rare and highly desirable deep blue colour and are of exceptional clarity.

Ranking 7.5 – 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, aquamarine is a durable gemstone and suitable for everyday wear.

History and Lore

Throughout history, aquamarine has been revered for its mystical and protective properties. In both Greek and Roman mythology, the gemstone was associated with their gods of the sea: Poseidon and Neptune. Aquamarine was considered the ‘gemstone of sailors’ with the power to calm stormy seas, protect from sea monsters and ensure safe passage through treacherous waters. Fishermen commonly wore protective amulets carved from aquamarine.

The Egyptians and Sumerians prized aquamarine as a symbol of happiness and everlasting youth and aquamarine in the form of beads has been found in ancient tombs.

  
Symbolism and meanings

Over the centuries aquamarine has often been thought of as a stone with medicinal properties. The Romans believed it could heal ailments of the throat, stomach and liver while in medieval times it was considered an antidote to poisoning. It has even been associated with being a cure for insomnia and hiccups!

In addition to its role as a stone to heal the body, aquamarine is also thought to have a calming effect on the mind. Many believe that if you keep an aquamarine close to you the gem will sooth tempers, prevent conflict and encourage communication and trust. As such the stone is often associated with strong and happy marriages; it is the official stone for the 19th wedding anniversary but is frequently given on other anniversaries. It is furthermore believed that aquamarine eases anxiety and promotes healing from past traumas.

Modern Usage

In contemporary jewellery design, aquamarine’s timeless beauty continues to inspire craftsmen and designers worldwide. It’s soft blue tones complement most metals including gold and silver, and aquamarine looks particularly striking set in platinum. Aquamarine can also be set alongside other gemstones such as diamonds and pearls. The versatility of aquamarine makes it a popular choice for a range of jewellery pieces including earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets. The gemstone’s association with long and happy marriages makes it a perfect choice for an engagement ring or for a bride’s ‘something blue’.

Famous aquamarine jewellery includes a stunning aquamarine necklace and earring set gifted by the President of Brazil to Queen Elizabeth II to mark her coronation in 1953. The Queen loved the set so much she commissioned a beautiful tiara – known as ‘The Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara’ – to complete the set.

Caring for Aquamarine

While aquamarine is a durable gemstone, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and lustre. Dirt and grease can build up underneath the stone giving it a dull appearance over time; to restore its shine simply soak the jewellery in warm soapy water, gently scrub with a soft brush and dry with a cloth. Avoid exposure to extremes of temperature and to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners which can damage the gemstone’s surface.

Aquamarine Gift Ideas

With it’s beautiful blue tones, rich lore and history and association with healing and happiness, aquamarine is a wonderful gemstone. For those celebrating a birthday in March, a piece of aquamarine jewellery makes a very special and personalised gift. It is also the perfect gift for brides to be, married couples, travellers and anyone with a love of the ocean.

Discover our selection of aquamarine jewellery.

If you would like to find out more information about birthstones, read our birthstone guide.