The incorporation of birthstones into belly button rings represents a contemporary trend, blending ancient traditions of gemstone symbolism with modern body art. While historical records lack evidence of birthstones adorning navel piercings, the practice reflects a continuing desire for personalized jewelry imbued with meaning. This article will explore the available information regarding birthstone belly rings, focusing on the gemstones represented – specifically, aqua blue gems associated with March – and the characteristics of the jewelry itself. The sources primarily detail the availability, materials, and customer experiences surrounding these rings, offering limited in-depth gemological or historical context.
A Contemporary Trend
The recent popularity of birthstone belly rings signifies a modern adaptation of age-old customs. The sources indicate a growing market for these rings, with retailers offering diverse designs featuring various birthstones. This trend allows individuals to celebrate their birth month through a unique and expressive form of body modification. Customer testimonials emphasize positive experiences with retailers providing “piercing concierge” services, highlighting the importance of accurate sizing and personalized assistance in selecting the appropriate piece. The appeal lies in the combination of personalization and aesthetic design, offering a contemporary way to connect with the symbolism of birthstones.
March’s Aqua Blue Representation
The primary gemstone highlighted in the provided sources as representing March is an “aqua blue” gem. While the sources do not explicitly identify the specific mineral composition of these gems, they suggest possibilities such as aquamarine or a synthetic blue stone. Traditionally, aquamarine is the recognized birthstone for March, but the context of these belly button rings appears to prioritize affordability and aesthetic appeal over strict adherence to traditional gemological standards.
Body Candy, a prominent retailer mentioned in the sources, offers an “Aqua Blue Gem March Birthstone Double Mount Belly Ring.” This ring features light blue gems intended to emulate the March birthstone. The use of the term “emulate” suggests that the stones may not be genuine aquamarine, but rather a visually similar alternative. The sources do not provide details regarding the quality, cut, or clarity of these gems, focusing instead on their color and association with the month of March.
Jewelry Construction and Materials
The belly button rings described in the sources are consistently constructed with a 14-gauge curved barbell made of 316L surgical grade stainless steel. This material is favored for its hypoallergenic properties, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions and making it suitable for long-term wear. The barbell measures 3/8 inch in length, a standard size for navel piercings.
The design typically features a “double mount,” meaning that both ends of the barbell are adorned with a gem. This enhances the visual impact of the ring and provides a symmetrical aesthetic. Other designs, as indicated by Origami Jewels’ offerings, include solitaire settings and variations in the barbell style, such as those with ball ends or more elaborate dangles.
History and Lore – A Modern Interpretation
While the concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, the application to belly button rings is a relatively recent phenomenon. The association of specific gemstones with each month is rooted in historical and astrological beliefs, though the sources do not detail the origins of these associations. The practice of gifting gemstones for their symbolic properties is a long-standing tradition, and the sources suggest that birthstone belly rings represent a continuation of this custom, adapted to a contemporary form of body adornment.
The sources emphasize that these rings are intended to be worn “all year long,” extending the celebratory aspect beyond a single birthday. This suggests a shift in the perception of birthstones from occasional gifts to everyday expressions of personal identity. The rings are marketed as a way to “party like it’s your birthday all year long,” highlighting the playful and celebratory nature of the trend.
The Broader Market of Birthstone Body Jewelry
The sources indicate a wider availability of birthstone belly rings representing various months. Body Candy, for example, offers rings featuring clear gems for April, topaz blue gems for December, and September birthstone rings with heart solitaires. Origami Jewels also offers a “Petite Birthstone Belly Button Ring,” suggesting a range of options for different preferences and budgets.
Beyond belly button rings, the sources mention other types of birthstone jewelry, including rings with ball ends, snowflake designs, and pearl embellishments. This demonstrates a broader trend of incorporating birthstones into diverse jewelry styles, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Price and Retailers
The provided sources offer insights into the pricing and availability of birthstone belly rings. Body Candy frequently offers sale prices, with rings typically ranging from $10.99 to $30.99, with sales bringing the price down to $10.99. Free shipping is available for orders over $24.99. Origami Jewels offers a range of belly button rings, with prices varying from $10.00 to $24.00.
The sources list Body Candy, Origami Jewels, and The Belly Ring Shop as retailers offering birthstone belly rings. These retailers provide online shopping options and a variety of designs to choose from.
Gemological Properties – Limited Information
The sources provide limited information regarding the gemological properties of the “aqua blue” gems used in the March birthstone belly rings. They do not specify the mineral composition, hardness, refractive index, or other key characteristics. The use of the term “emulate” suggests that the gems may be synthetic or imitations of natural aquamarine.
Aquamarine, the traditional March birthstone, is a variety of beryl with a chemical formula of Be3Al2Si6O18. It has a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. Its refractive index is 1.565-1.590, giving it a bright and sparkling appearance. However, without further information from the sources, it is impossible to determine the specific properties of the gems used in these belly button rings.
Care and Cleaning
Given the use of 316L surgical grade stainless steel, the belly button rings are relatively easy to care for. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these could damage the metal or the gems.
If the gems are synthetic or imitations, they may be more susceptible to scratches or damage than natural gemstones. It is advisable to avoid wearing the rings during activities that could expose them to impact or abrasion.
Table: Birthstone Representation in Belly Button Rings (Based on Sources)
| Month | Birthstone Representation | Retailer(s) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | Aqua Blue Gem | Body Candy, Origami Jewels | $10.99 - $30.99 |
| April | Clear Gem | Body Candy | $10.99 - $30.99 |
| December | Topaz Blue Gem | Body Candy | $10.99 - $30.99 |
| September | Heart Solitaire Gem | Body Candy | Not Specified |
Conclusion
The incorporation of birthstones into belly button rings represents a contemporary expression of personal style and a connection to ancient traditions. While the sources provide limited gemological detail, they highlight the growing popularity of these rings and the positive customer experiences associated with their purchase. The availability of customization options and the use of hypoallergenic materials further enhance the appeal of these pieces. The focus remains on accessible and aesthetically pleasing jewelry, offering a modern way to celebrate birth months and individual expression. The “aqua blue” gem representing March, while potentially a synthetic alternative to aquamarine, embodies the spirit of personalization and playful celebration that defines this emerging trend in body jewelry.