Aquamarine, a gemstone celebrated for its tranquil blue hues, holds the esteemed position of birthstone for March. This article delves into the history, properties, and symbolism of aquamarine, drawing exclusively from available sources to provide a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts, buyers, and students of gemology. The gemstone is frequently featured in bracelets, often paired with gold and other complementary materials, embodying both elegance and a connection to the ocean’s calming energy.
History and Lore
The name “aquamarine” itself is derived from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), aptly describing the gem’s captivating color. Ancient mariners believed aquamarine possessed protective qualities, calming the waves and ensuring safe voyages. This belief is referenced as a historical association with the stone, suggesting it was carried by sailors as a talisman against the perils of the sea. This historical connection to safe travels continues to resonate in modern interpretations of the stone’s symbolism.
Beyond seafaring lore, aquamarine has been associated with courage, protection, and luck. These beliefs are particularly evident in contemporary interpretations, where the gemstone is thought to bring positive energy to those who wear it. The stone’s association with calmness and clarity also contributes to its appeal as a symbol of serenity.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the geological formation of aquamarine, they do highlight its presence in various bracelet designs. The sources focus on the finished product rather than the mining or geological origins of the stone itself. The bracelets described are crafted using Grade A Aquamarine beads, suggesting a level of quality and clarity.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine, as presented in the sources, is a gemstone frequently used in jewelry, particularly bracelets. The beads used in Kuka London bracelets are 6mm in diameter and round in shape. Ekleel Jewelry features aquamarine in a round brilliant cut, 1.80mm in size, set within a bezel setting and accented by pavé diamonds. This indicates that aquamarine can be cut into various shapes and sizes, lending itself to diverse jewelry designs.
The sources also mention the presence of quartz alongside aquamarine in some designs, and the use of glass crystals to mimic the appearance of aquamarine in more affordable options. The Ekleel Jewelry bracelet includes 23 round brilliant cut natural diamonds with an average color of G and average clarity of VS, totaling 0.13 carats, highlighting the combination of aquamarine with other precious stones.
A table summarizing the gemological properties as described in the sources is provided below:
| Property | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Shape/Cut | Round, Round Brilliant | 3, 4 |
| Size | 6mm (beads), 1.80mm (brilliant cut) | 3, 4 |
| Setting Type | Bezel, Pavé | 4 |
| Accent Stones | Diamonds, Quartz | 4 |
| Material | Natural Aquamarine, Glass Crystals | 2, 3 |
| Weight | 2.38g (bracelet with aquamarine) | 1 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Aquamarine is widely believed to embody serenity, calm, and protection. The sources emphasize its association with the ocean and its historical use by mariners for safe travels. It is thought to bring courage and luck to the wearer, and to have healing properties, calming those who wear it and clearing away negative energy. The use of aquamarine in jewelry is often seen as a way to connect with these positive energies and promote a sense of peace and well-being. The “Memory Stack™” concept associated with one bracelet suggests a personal connection and reminder of positive attributes.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide specific care instructions based on the materials used in the jewelry. For gold-plated and rhodium-plated items, it is recommended to store them in a soft pouch or jewelry box, away from direct sunlight and heat, and to avoid swimming or showering while wearing them to prevent damage from chlorine and soapy water. Silver items should be stored in a sealed bag or airtight box and regularly cleaned with a polishing cloth to prevent tarnishing. Gemstones, in general, should be handled with care, avoiding hot water and harsh chemicals. Diamonds can be cleaned with a diamond cleansing pen or warm soapy water and a soft brush. Pearls should be cleaned with a polishing cloth to maintain their lustre.
Bracelet Styles and Materials
The provided sources showcase a variety of aquamarine bracelet styles. Pebble offers a gold-plated chain bracelet with a semi-precious aquamarine pebble. Aereeterna features a bracelet with teardrop-shaped glass crystals in shades of blue, set in 14k gold-filled wire. Kuka London presents a bracelet made of Grade A Aquamarine beads combined with a blue waxed cord. Ekleel Jewelry offers a more elaborate design with a round brilliant cut aquamarine, diamonds, and quartz, set in gold.
The materials used in these bracelets vary, including 14k gold-filled wire, 18K gold plating, glass crystals, and natural gemstones. The use of 14k gold-filled wire is highlighted as being superior to gold plating due to its durability and tarnish resistance. The sources also emphasize the importance of using high-quality materials to ensure both beauty and longevity.
Customization and Sizing
Aereeterna offers custom sizing for their bracelets, allowing customers to specify their preferred size during checkout. The recommended method for determining bracelet size is to measure the wrist and add 3 cm (1.2 in) for a comfortable fit. This demonstrates a commitment to providing personalized jewelry options.
Allergy Considerations
Aereeterna addresses potential allergy concerns, stating that their jewelry is crafted using 14k gold-filled wire from certified suppliers. While 14k gold-filled wire is generally hypoallergenic, they acknowledge that some individuals may still experience allergic reactions and recommend taking appropriate precautions.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history and symbolism. From its ancient association with safe sea voyages to its modern representation of serenity and courage, aquamarine continues to captivate and inspire. The variety of bracelet styles available, ranging from simple beaded designs to elaborate diamond-accented pieces, demonstrates the versatility of this beautiful gemstone. The provided sources highlight the importance of quality materials, proper care, and personalized options in creating enduring and meaningful jewelry pieces. The gemstone’s calming blue hues and positive associations make it a cherished choice for those born in March and a timeless addition to any jewelry collection.