March Birthstone: All About Aquamarine

As the first month of spring, March is a time of year filled with optimism, hope, and beauty. There’s no shortage of lovely objects to appreciate, be it the reappearance of flower blossoms or the stunning March birthstone aquamarine. Below we’ll be sharing everything you need to know about aquamarine. Whether you want to find out about your birthstone or you’re looking to treat a March baby in your life, here is the fascinating story behind aquamarine.

The History and Symbolism of Aquamarine

Derived from the Latin word for seawater (aqua = water, marina = of the sea), aquamarine has strong historical ties to all things nautical. Its stunning blue color and clear facade has been reminding admirers of the ocean for centuries. Aquamarine can come in many different shades of blue, just like the various oceans and seas across the globe. However, a light azure hue similar to tropical seawater is the most famous variant.

It comes as no surprise that aquamarine was historically known as the sailor’s stone. Ancient seafarers used the blue gem to protect themselves during nautical voyages. They believed that it had the power to calm waves, repel sea monsters, and ensure prosperous trips. Ancient Romans and Greeks associated aquamarine with their respective gods of the sea, Neptune and Poseidon, therefore making it a sacred gemstone. According to these ancient civilizations, aquamarine was brought to land after being washed ashore from the caskets of sirens of the deep seas.

Aquamarine is also linked to fortune-telling and foresight. Its glass-like appearance gave it the nickname “the magic mirror”, as some people believed it could be used to predict the future. Others believed that aquamarine had healing powers, and could cure ailments relating to the stomach, throat, and liver. Over time aquamarine also became an emblem of marital bliss and intellect, before eventually being selected as the March birthstone.

Nowadays aquamarine remains a symbol of purity, protection, courage, loyalty, and friendship. Its clear blue appearance evokes the serenity of the ocean and encourages calmness and inner peace.

Aquamarine Care

Aquamarine is a reasonably hard gemstone, coming in at 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. It’s a member of the beryl mineral family, alongside other durable gems such as emerald and morganite. Aquamarine is more than durable enough for everyday wear, making it an excellent choice for your jewelry collection. 

Take care of your aquamarine jewelry by regularly cleaning it with warm, soapy water. You can be even more thorough by going over small spaces and curves with a toothbrush. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used as long as there are no inclusions or fractures on your gemstone.

March Birthstone Jewelry

A piece of aquamarine jewelry is always a fantastic gift idea for March babies. It’s also the traditional 19th wedding anniversary gift, so you might still have an opportunity to enjoy aquamarine jewelry even if you’re not a Pisces or an Aries. Here are a few of our favorite March birthstone jewelry pieces!

Explore our full range of March birthstone jewelry now!

Writer: Maria Polansky