The gemstone aquamarine is prominently featured as the birthstone for March, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional spring palettes. While the provided sources do not delve deeply into the gem’s geological origins or detailed gemological properties, they highlight its historical connections to fashion, its role in contemporary jewelry, and its symbolic association with renewal and fresh beginnings. This article will explore the cultural significance of aquamarine as presented in these sources, its place in modern jewelry trends, and practical advice for its care.
History and Lore
The sources indicate a long-standing appreciation for aquamarine, linking it to historical fashion trends and literary references. Overalls, originating as workwear in the 1700s and gaining mainstream popularity in the 1960s and 90s, are presented as a recurring fashion staple, demonstrating a cyclical nature of style. This cyclical nature is mirrored in the return of aquamarine as a fashionable gemstone color, offering a “twist on spring’s classical seasonal colors.” The sources suggest that aquamarine provides a sophisticated alternative to expected pastel shades, such as mint green, baby blue, and lilac, offering a “tasteful and fresh compliment” to dusty rose, plum, and deep green.
The connection between birth months and personal reflection is also established, with March’s birthstone, aquamarine, linked to the birth flower, poinsettia, for a “blingy birthday girl look.” This association reinforces the gemstone’s role in personal celebrations and gift-giving. Furthermore, the sources mention the historical significance of certain jewelry styles, such as pearls evoking the flapper era and diamond necklaces reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe, demonstrating a continuing fascination with iconic looks and the jewelry that defines them.
Aquamarine in Contemporary Jewelry
The sources showcase aquamarine’s presence in modern jewelry collections. Several retailers are mentioned – Wesche Jewelers, Kendra Scott, and Siegel Jewelers – all offering a variety of jewelry pieces, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants. These retailers provide options in various metals, including 14K gold, rhodium-plated brass, and silver. The availability of aquamarine jewelry across different price points and styles suggests its broad appeal to a diverse consumer base.
Siegel Jewelers specifically highlights the Chamilia bead collection, which has been recognized by Oprah’s Favorite Things List, indicating a trend towards customizable and personalized jewelry. The brand Kendra Scott is also mentioned, offering a gold disc pendant necklace featuring iridescent abalone, demonstrating a preference for unique and eye-catching designs. Wesche Jewelers offers a comprehensive range of jewelry, including birthstone pieces, catering to a wide spectrum of customer preferences.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide practical advice on maintaining the quality and appearance of fashion jewelry, which is relevant to aquamarine pieces plated in gold or rhodium. It is recommended to remove jewelry before washing hands, swimming, exercising, cleaning, or applying personal body products to protect the plating and prevent tarnish. Maintaining shine is achieved by avoiding contact with soaps, perfumes, lotions, makeup, and hair products. The use of rubber or metal safety backs on earrings is also advised to prevent loss. These guidelines emphasize the importance of preventative care to prolong the life and beauty of aquamarine jewelry.
Featured in Media
Touchstone Crystal’s press mentions reveal the brand’s visibility in various media outlets, including Life & Style, In Touch Weekly, and the TODAY Show. While these mentions do not specifically focus on aquamarine, they demonstrate the broader interest in gemstone jewelry and its presence in popular culture. The brand’s support of breast cancer awareness through jewelry sales further highlights the potential for gemstones to be associated with charitable causes and social responsibility.
Styling Aquamarine
The sources offer styling suggestions, linking aquamarine to current fashion trends. The gemstone is presented as a complement to preppy motifs and can be incorporated into ensembles to create a “blingy birthday girl look.” The sources also encourage readers to share their own styling creations using the hashtag #sjstylechallenge, fostering a sense of community and encouraging creative expression. The suggestion to pair aquamarine with dusty rose, plum, or deep green demonstrates its versatility and ability to enhance a variety of color palettes.
A Symbol of Renewal
The association of aquamarine with the month of March and the spring season reinforces its symbolic connection to renewal and fresh beginnings. The sources suggest that aquamarine can add a “fresh edge” to spring wardrobes, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional pastel colors. This symbolism aligns with the gemstone’s name, derived from the Latin “aqua marina,” meaning “seawater,” evoking images of clarity, tranquility, and the rejuvenating power of the ocean.
Conclusion
While the provided sources offer a limited scope of information regarding the gemological properties and detailed history of aquamarine, they effectively showcase its contemporary relevance in fashion and jewelry. Aquamarine is presented as a versatile gemstone that complements a variety of styles, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional spring colors. The sources emphasize the importance of proper care to maintain the beauty of aquamarine jewelry and highlight its symbolic association with renewal and personal reflection. The gemstone’s presence in media and its connection to charitable causes further enhance its appeal and cultural significance.