Aquamarine, a gemstone celebrated for its serene blue hues, holds a significant place in both the world of gemology and popular culture. Its association with the month of March has led to its recognition as a traditional birthstone, symbolizing tranquility, clarity, and hope. This connection has extended into various artistic and commercial representations, most notably through its inclusion in Mattel’s “Birthstone Beauties” Barbie collection. This article will explore the representation of aquamarine within this collection, alongside details regarding the doll’s design and the gemstone’s broader cultural significance as evidenced by available sources.
History and Lore
The sources primarily focus on the modern commemoration of aquamarine through the Barbie “Birthstone Beauties” collection, rather than a detailed historical account of the gemstone itself. However, the very inclusion of aquamarine in this collection speaks to its enduring popularity and cultural relevance. The “Miss Aquamarine” doll, launched as part of the March birthstone line, demonstrates the gemstone’s ability to inspire creativity and imagination. The collection, initiated by Mattel, aimed to celebrate diversity and individuality through the lens of gemstones and fashion. The design of the doll, with its aquamarine-colored gown, directly references the gemstone’s vibrant blue hue and its association with the sea.
The “Birthstone Beauties” collection, designed by Bill Greening, features dolls crafted from vinyl on ModelMuse bodies, standing at 11-1/2 inches tall. Each doll, including “Miss Aquamarine,” is dressed in a lace dress with a velveteen shrug, complemented by faux gemstone jewelry. The inclusion of a miniature dog on a leash and a doll stand further enhances the collectible nature of these representations. The dolls were produced in both African American and Caucasian versions, highlighting the gemstone’s universal appeal.
Gemological Properties & Representation in Design
While the provided sources do not detail the gemological properties of aquamarine – such as its chemical formula, hardness, or refractive index – they do emphasize the importance of its color in the doll’s design. The “Miss Aquamarine” doll’s gown is specifically described as being aquamarine-colored, reflecting the gemstone’s vibrant blue hue. This color is central to the doll’s aesthetic and serves as a direct visual representation of the birthstone.
The design incorporates elements that pay homage to aquamarine’s association with the sea, utilizing flowing fabrics and delicate details to evoke a sense of calm and elegance. The accessories, including a necklace or earrings, further emphasize the gemstone’s role in jewelry design and its use in fashion. The overall presentation of the doll reflects the gemstone’s symbolic meaning, with its serene and elegant appearance conveying tranquility and grace.
The Barbie "Birthstone Beauties" Collection: Details and Production
The Barbie “Birthstone Beauties” collection, released in 2007, was a Pink Label collection, indicating a focus on collector appeal. Each doll in the series represents a gemstone associated with a specific month, and is named accordingly (e.g., Miss Garnet, Miss Amethyst). The dolls are individualized with varying skin tones, makeup, and hair colors, adding to their unique character.
The “Miss Aquamarine” doll, specifically, was available as part of this series. The sources do not provide details on the production numbers for this particular doll, but they do indicate that the collection as a whole was designed to appeal to collectors. The dolls were accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and packaged in special collector’s boxes.
Market Value and Collectibility
Information regarding the market value of the “Miss Aquamarine” Barbie doll is limited to one source, which focuses on purchasing used Barbies. This source details specific conditions that affect the doll’s value, emphasizing that dolls in mint condition, free of damage or wear, command a higher price. The source provides criteria for assessing a doll’s condition, including the absence of shelf wear, scratches, price stickers, or damaged corners. Dolls that have been removed from their boxes, or whose packaging is damaged, are considered “non-mint” and are subject to a price reduction. The source indicates a willingness to purchase dolls even in non-mint condition, but at a reduced price. The provided information does not offer specific price points, but rather outlines the factors that influence a doll’s resale value.
Aquamarine in Broader Barbie Collections
Beyond the “Birthstone Beauties” collection, aquamarine-inspired designs have appeared in other Barbie lines. The sources mention the “Black and White Collection™ Classic Evening Gown Barbie®,” released in 2015, and various convention dolls from the same year. While these dolls do not directly represent aquamarine as a birthstone, they demonstrate Barbie’s ongoing engagement with color and design, and the potential for aquamarine-inspired aesthetics in future collections. The 2015 Barbie Convention dolls, showcased in Japan and Paris, highlight the brand’s commitment to limited-edition releases and collector appeal.
Conclusion
The inclusion of aquamarine in the Barbie “Birthstone Beauties” collection underscores the gemstone’s enduring appeal and cultural significance. The “Miss Aquamarine” doll serves as a tangible representation of the gemstone’s beauty and symbolism, capturing its serene blue hue and association with the sea. While the provided sources do not offer a comprehensive overview of aquamarine’s history or gemological properties, they demonstrate the gemstone’s ability to inspire creativity and imagination, and its continued relevance in popular culture. The doll’s design, production details, and market value all contribute to its status as a collectible item, appealing to both gemstone enthusiasts and Barbie collectors alike. The “Birthstone Beauties” collection, and the “Miss Aquamarine” doll within it, represent a unique intersection of gemology, fashion, and popular culture.