Aquamarine, the designated birthstone for March, is a gemstone celebrated for its captivating hues and association with tranquility. While the provided sources offer a limited scope of information, they establish aquamarine’s position within the spectrum of popular birthstones and its availability in contemporary jewelry markets. This article will explore the available details regarding this gemstone, focusing on its presence in modern jewelry offerings and its cultural significance as a birthstone.
History and Lore
The sources do not provide detailed historical accounts of aquamarine’s lore or ancient uses. However, its consistent listing as the March birthstone indicates a long-standing tradition of associating the gem with this month. The modern practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month of the year gained prominence in the 20th century, solidifying aquamarine’s place in contemporary birthstone traditions. The sources do not elaborate on any specific myths, legends, or historical figures connected to the stone.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided materials do not contain information regarding the geological formation of aquamarine or its primary mining locations. This information is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the gemstone, but it is absent from the given sources.
Gemological Properties
The sources do not detail the gemological properties of aquamarine, such as its chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or clarity characteristics. This omission significantly limits the ability to provide a scientifically grounded description of the gemstone. The sources focus solely on its presentation in jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources do not offer any insights into the symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with aquamarine. While many gemstones are attributed with specific powers or meanings, the provided materials remain silent on this aspect.
Aquamarine in Contemporary Jewelry
The primary focus of the provided sources is the availability of aquamarine jewelry through retailers like KAY Jewelers and Zales. These sources showcase a range of aquamarine pieces, including rings, bracelets, and pendants.
KAY Jewelers offers an amethyst floral ring with diamonds in sterling silver for $299.99, and Zales presents a 7.0mm cushion-cut amethyst and lab-created white sapphire frame bolo bracelet in sterling silver, initially priced at $129 but currently available for $90.30. These offerings demonstrate the accessibility of aquamarine jewelry across different price points.
The sources highlight the popularity of smaller aquamarine pieces, such as 4mm birthstone rings offered by Jordan Kay Jewelry. These rings are described as dainty, colorful, and simple, and are often purchased for stacking or as personalized gifts. The rings are crafted from 14k gold filled material, designed for durability and everyday wear. The availability of these rings in sizes 5-8 caters to a broad range of customers.
Further examples of aquamarine jewelry include a Zales pear-shaped lab-created emerald and white sapphire cascading teardrop pendant priced at $169, and a KAY Jewelers Le Vian Couture turquoise ring featuring diamonds and set in 18K Vanilla Gold, priced at $3743.25 (originally $5347.50). Anthropologie offers a multi-color semi-precious beaded stretch bracelet for $28, and Amazon Essentials provides a sterling silver created blue sapphire necklace for $19.90 - $20.90.
The materials emphasize the convenience of purchasing these items, with standard shipping taking 3-5 business days and returns accepted within 30 days for non-custom pieces.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for aquamarine. However, the description of the 4mm birthstone rings as being made from 14k gold filled material suggests a degree of durability and resistance to tarnishing. General jewelry care guidelines would likely apply, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and storing the pieces in a soft pouch when not in use.
Market Trends and Purchasing Options
The sources indicate a strong market for birthstone jewelry, with aquamarine being a popular choice for those born in March. The availability of aquamarine pieces across multiple retailers, including KAY Jewelers, Zales, Anthropologie, and Amazon, suggests a competitive market with a range of options for consumers. The price points vary significantly, from under $20 for a simple necklace to over $3700 for a high-end designer ring. This wide range caters to diverse budgets and preferences.
The emphasis on stackable rings and personalized gifts suggests a trend towards customizable and meaningful jewelry. The 14k gold filled construction of the Jordan Kay Jewelry rings highlights a focus on durability and long-lasting wear.
Limitations of the Sources
The provided sources are limited in scope and primarily focus on the commercial availability of aquamarine jewelry. They lack detailed information regarding the gemstone’s geological origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and metaphysical beliefs. This limitation prevents a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of aquamarine as a gemstone. The sources are largely promotional in nature, focusing on product offerings and pricing rather than providing objective gemological information.
Conclusion
Based on the available sources, aquamarine is a readily accessible and popular birthstone for those born in March. It is featured in a variety of jewelry styles and price points, catering to a broad range of consumers. While the sources lack detailed scientific or historical information, they establish aquamarine’s position as a contemporary birthstone and highlight its presence in the modern jewelry market. Further research utilizing more comprehensive sources is necessary to provide a complete understanding of this captivating gemstone.