Birthstones - Brilliant Jewelers


Aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March & anniversary gemstone for the 19th year of marriage.


Description

Aquamarine derives its name from "sea water". Aqua (water) sparkles like the sea and its color is light to medium blue, sometimes with a slight greenish splash.

According to some legends, it is the treasure of mermaids, with the power to keep sailors safe at sea. Aquamarine is said to be a particularly strong charm when immersed in water (which is a good thing, since that is when sailors need its power most). Aquamarine was also said to have a soothing influence on land, especially on married couples. Its power to help husbands and wives work out their differences and ensure a long and happy marriage makes it a good anniversary gift. Aquamarine also protects against the wiles of the devil. A dream of aquamarine means that you will meet new friends.

Aquamarine is found in Brazil, Zambia, Mozambique, Angola, Nigeria, and other countries. Found primarily in Brazil, aquamarine is also mined in Madagascar and Africa. Aquamarine is commonly heated to eliminate green undertones. Light green Beryl can be transformed into Aquamarine if heated to 750º F (400º C). The typical size of aquamarine is a wide range from small to large.

Aquamarine is always a pastel blue but the darker the color, the more valued it is. Professionals prefer a pure blue, with no green in it. Stones with a greenish tone are less expensive. Because the color is generally pale, aquamarine should have a good clarity. These stones are often cut in ovals and emerald cuts. More saturated colors are unusual in small sizes: usually it takes some size for the color to hold in a darker shade.

Stone Lore

Aquamarine is the blue to greenish blue variety of beryl. The name is derived from the Latin word meaning "Sea Water". The people of the middle ages believed aquamarine had magical powers that would give them insight, foresight and the ability to conquer wickedness. It was also used as a cure for eye troubles, respiratory diseases and hiccups.

The mineral beryl gives the wearer protection against foes in battle or litigation. It makes the wearer unconquerable and amiable, and also quickens the intellect. Aquamarine was used by sailors as a talisman of good luck, fearlessness and protection. It was also considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness and historically been a symbol of fidelity and hope.


 January
 Garnet
 February
 Amethyst
 March
 Aquamarine
 Bloodstone*
 April
 Diamond
 White Topaz*
 Quartz*
 Sapphire*
 May
 Emerald
 June
 Pearl
 Moonstone*
 Alexandrite*
 July
 Ruby
 Onyx*
 August
 Peridot
 Carnelian*
 Sardonyx*
 September
 Sapphire
 October
 Opal
 Lapis Lazuli*
 Tourmaline*
 November
 Topaz
 Citrine
 Zircon*
 December
 Turquoise
 Tanzinite*

* alternative birthstones