Aquamarine, the captivating blue-green gemstone, holds the esteemed position of birthstone for the month of March. Revered for its serene color and association with the sea, aquamarine is a popular choice for jewelry, particularly delicate necklaces and bracelets. This article will explore the available information regarding this gemstone, encompassing its current use in jewelry, available materials, and associated symbolism, based solely on the provided sources.
A Gemstone for Daily Wear
Contemporary jewelry designs frequently feature aquamarine as a central element, often in minimalist and dainty styles. Current offerings include aquamarine pendant necklaces, designed for everyday wear, and bracelets incorporating the gemstone. These pieces are often crafted using materials like 18K gold vermeil on sterling silver, or gold-filled and sterling silver options, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. The stones themselves are typically small, measuring approximately 3-4mm in size, suggesting a focus on subtle elegance rather than large, statement pieces. Aquamarine is also available as a charm for charm bracelets, and in curved bar necklace designs.
Birthstone Significance and Variety
Aquamarine is widely recognized as the birthstone for March. The sources indicate a comprehensive list of birthstones assigned to each month, solidifying aquamarine’s place in this traditional system of gemological association. Beyond its monthly designation, aquamarine is also presented alongside other gemstones in collections designed for zodiac-themed jewelry. The availability of aquamarine in various forms – as individual stones, charms, and incorporated into more complex designs like heart necklaces alongside morganite and mother of pearl – demonstrates its versatility in jewelry making.
Material Options and Craftsmanship
The sources highlight a range of material options for aquamarine jewelry. Gold vermeil, gold-filled, and sterling silver are commonly used metals, offering varying levels of durability and shine. The inclusion of materials like mother of pearl alongside aquamarine suggests a focus on complementary aesthetics and textures. The craftsmanship emphasizes delicate designs, with necklace lengths around 405mm and gauges of 1mm, indicating a preference for lightweight and comfortable pieces.
Purchasing and Care Considerations
When acquiring aquamarine jewelry, the sources provide practical information regarding shipping, returns, and care. Standard UK shipping is available, with delivery times ranging from 3-7 working days, and free returns are offered for UK customers. For international customers, shipping times vary depending on the destination and chosen service (USPS First Class or Priority Mail).
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of aquamarine jewelry. Gold should be cleaned regularly with a polishing cloth and stored in a cool, dry place. Silver is prone to tarnishing and benefits from storage in a sealed bag or airtight box, along with regular polishing. Gemstones, in general, should be protected from harsh chemicals and hot water. Gold-plated and rhodium-plated jewelry require similar storage precautions and should be removed before swimming or showering to prevent damage from chlorine and soapy water. Diamonds, if present in the setting, can be cleaned with a specialized cleansing pen or warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Global Availability and Retail Locations
The provided sources demonstrate a global reach in terms of retail availability. While specific mining locations are not detailed, the extensive list of countries and regions with associated currencies suggests that aquamarine jewelry is accessible to customers worldwide. The presence of both online stores and the option to exchange online purchases in physical stores indicates a blended retail approach.
Aquamarine in Charm Jewelry
Aquamarine is also available as a charm, specifically a “Birthstone Charm” designed for use with charm bracelets. This format allows for customization and personalization, enabling customers to create unique jewelry pieces that reflect their individual preferences. The availability of charm bars and statement charms further expands the possibilities for creative expression.
Table of Available Gemstone Birthstones
The sources provide a concise list of birthstones associated with each month, which can be presented in a table format:
| Month | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Clear Quartz |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Moonstone |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal |
| November | Citrine |
| December | Topaz |
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a gemstone celebrated for its tranquil blue-green hues and its association with the sea. The provided sources showcase its current popularity in delicate jewelry designs, particularly necklaces and bracelets, crafted from materials like gold vermeil, gold-filled, and sterling silver. The gemstone’s availability in various forms, including charms and curved bar necklaces, demonstrates its versatility. Proper care, including regular cleaning and appropriate storage, is essential to preserve the beauty of aquamarine jewelry. The widespread global availability and the established tradition of assigning birthstones to each month further solidify aquamarine’s enduring appeal.