Aquamarine: A Complete Guide to the March Birthstone

The March birthstone is aquamarine, a gemstone admired for its icy green-blue tones and long-standing association with calm and its association with the ocean. The most sought-after aquamarines display a clear, ocean-blue colour with excellent transparency and brilliance. In this complete guide to aquamarine, we explore its history and how to care for your aquamarine jewellery.

Traditionally this gem is linked to tranquillity and safe travel, especially by boat. The aquamarine remains a meaningful way to celebrate March birthdays, anniversaries, and special milestones. Today, aquamarine jewellery is one of the most popular choices among blue gemstones, loved for its fresh colour.

A Little History Behind Aquamarine

The name aquamarine comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “sea water,” a reference to its captivating blue shades. Ancient sailors believed aquamarine was a treasure of mermaids and carried it as a talisman for protection and safe voyages across the sea.

Ancient Romans associated the gem with Neptune, god of the sea, and believed it could safeguard travellers. Throughout history, the gemstone has symbolised youth, hope, and happiness, and was often exchanged as a gift between lovers to strengthen relationships.

Aquamarine is often believed to inspire courage and loyalty, while helping you stay aware and calm during life’s toughest moments. Many people also feel it brings a gentle, soothing energy to relationships, especially in marriage.

Today, major sources of aquamarine include Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Mozambique. Brazil in particular has produced some of the finest and largest crystals ever discovered. The largest recorded, came in at 110 kilograms, helping establish aquamarine as a treasured gemstone worldwide.

Physical and Gemological Properties of Aquamarine

Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family, which also includes emeralds. Its natural beauty and durability make it ideal for a wide variety of jewellery designs.

Composition & Colour: Aquamarine is composed of beryllium aluminium silicate. Its blue colour is caused by trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure.

Crystal System: Aquamarine crystallises in the hexagonal system, often forming large, well-shaped crystals.

Hardness: With a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday wear, making it suitable for rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets.

Clarity & Transparency: High-quality aquamarine is typically eye clean, with excellent transparency and a bright vitreous lustre when expertly cut.

Symbolism: Aquamarine is traditionally associated with serenity, courage, communication, and protection. While these meanings stem from cultural history rather than science, they continue to shape how the gemstone is gifted and worn today.

Caring for Your Aquamarine Jewellery

Although aquamarine is relatively hard and durable, proper care will help preserve its brilliance.

Cleaning: Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry gently. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for aquamarine, but professional advice is recommended before usage.

Storage: Store separately from harder gemstones such as diamonds to avoid scratching. A soft pouch or lined jewellery box is ideal.

Avoid Impact & Chemicals: While durable, aquamarine can chip if knocked sharply. Remove jewellery before heavy physical activity, gardening, or using household chemicals.

Regular Inspection: Periodic professional cleaning and inspections will help maintain both the gemstone and its setting, ensuring your aquamarine jewellery remains in excellent condition for years to come.

March Birthstone Gift Ideas

Aquamarine jewellery makes a thoughtful gift for March birthdays and is also traditionally associated with 19th wedding anniversaries. Its cool blue hue pairs beautifully with diamonds.

Popular choices include:

• GRADUATED HALF ETERNITY AQUAMARINE AND DIAMOND RING IN 9K WHITE GOLD
• AQUAMARINE MARQUISE AND DIAMOND RING IN 18K WHITE GOLD

Current aquamarine jewellery trends favour elegant, understated designs that allow the gemstone’s natural clarity and colour to take centre stage.

Visit Aleks Jewellers in Norwich

We proudly offer a carefully curated selection of aquamarine jewellery, chosen for quality craftsmanship and timeless appeal. From rings and earrings to pendants and bracelets, our collection celebrates the beauty and heritage of the March birthstone.

You can explore a curated selection of our aquamarines online or visit us in store in Norwich, for our full collection.

We have a guide for every birthstone, so please explore our other posts for further jewellery inspiration and thoughtful gift ideas throughout the year.