March Birthstone: Aquamarine

I should have been born in March. It's only logical, other than the fact that I was born in December of course. I have many reasons to support my argument ranging from my love for the month of March (especially because I get so say goodbye to February which is easily my least favorite month) to my natural draw to Aquamarines.

Aquamarine is the birthstone for all of those lucky March babies out there. It is also recognized as the gift for the 18th wedding anniversary (it is thought to have a soothing influence on married couples, making it a good anniversary gift).

When I began to research Aquamarine the first thing that I learned is that its name is derived from the Latin word aqua marina, meaning seawater. Aqua is known for it's range of serene, oceanic shades. Understandably it is known as the gem of the sea. Considering that salt water runs in my veins it makes complete since that I would feel such a deep connection to Aquamarines. As Wilmington natives, beach dwellers and boat lovers you may be able to relate to my deep love for Aqua.

Legend says that it was Neptune's gift to the mermaids and it was originally found in a mermaids treasure chest. It holds the power to keep sailors safe at sea and guard against storms.

Hooked yet? Just wait...Aquamarines are also believed to reawaken love, kindle friendships and elevate the spirit. It is the gem of youthful outlook and glints the fresh, young-at-heart qualities of those who wear it. It is believed to bring hope, health, harmony and happiness.

As a Beryl, Aqua is a sister to Emerald and Morganite. The color of Aqua can range from pastel blues, to blue-greens to deep sea blues. It is routinely heated to remove yellow components. Unlike Emerald, Aquamarine is almost entirely free of inclusions. It is a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which makes it good for all types of jewelry and everyday wear. It has wonderful shine and brilliant color. Iron is what gives it it's lovely color.

Aquamarine is a stunning gemstone for many reasons. It is absolutely my favorite gemstone! I hope that what you learned today will help you fall in love with Aquamarine as well.

We have an absolutely stunning collection of Aquamarines from loose stones to Starsong jewelry and fine designer jewelry.

Here is a sampling of what we have at Spectrum:














Symmetry SS and 18ky Ring
with rough cut Aqua













Barbara Heinrich Aqua and
Peridot Earrings in 18ky

Aqua and Tourmaline Ring in
yellow gold made at Spectrum



-Taylor