AQUAMARINE GEMSTONE HISTORY
The gemstone for March is named after the Latin word, aqua (meaning seawater). It’s only slightly ironic that about 90% of the worlds aquamarine gemstones are mined in Brazil, a country with the 16th largest coastline. Although most of the aquamarine stone is found in Brazil, they’re also mined in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan and Mozambique. Traditionally, aquamarine birthstone was thought to protect sailors and ensure a safe voyage out at sea. It’s also believed that the March stone cools the temper of the wearer to keep them calm.MARCH BIRTHSTONE COLOR AND LOOK
The aquamarine gemstone is usually light greenish-blue to blueish-green in color. The March birthstone color is derived from the mineral beryl, the same mineral from which emeralds are formed. The March stone is usually well formed and found in large, six sided crystals that can be up to a foot long. One aquamarine gemstone found in Brazil weighed over 240 pounds. This makes aquamarine gem perfect for jewelry statement pieces and for collectors.AQUAMARINE GEMSTONE IMITATIONS
If you’re unsure if your aqua jewelry is real or not, consult with your local jewelry professional. At Les Olson Jewelers in Palm Harbor, we can determine if your jewelry is real or do an official jewelry appraisal with a certified GIA gemologist.Some close imposters of aquamarine are blue topaz, sapphire or tanzanite. Blue Topaz is the most common imposter of aquamarine, especially in America. Jewelers can expect to pay up to 10 times more for bulk aquamarine than for bulk blue topaz. The biggest market for aquamarine gems is in Asia and Europe, where they hold a strong emphasis on asset value.
Aside from being the March birthstone, aquamarine is also the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary. So, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary or just looking for a gorgeous stone with a strong asset value, aquamarine should be considered for your next jewelry purchase.
To see our selection of Aquamarine birthstone jewelry, check out our online selection. Or visit our Palm Harbor jewelry studio to create a custom March birthstone jewelry piece. Our Florida jewelry store is located near Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Oldsmar and Safety Harbor. Our top-rated jewelers in the Tampa-Bay area make all custom design jewelry onsite. To inquire about designing a custom piece of your own, visit our website.
To learn more about the gemstone for march, check out our other Aquamarine birthstone blog.