Aquamarine, the captivating light-blue gemstone, holds the esteemed position as the birthstone for March. Celebrated for its serene hue and association with calmness and courage, aquamarine is frequently featured in delicate jewelry pieces, particularly chokers and necklaces. This article will explore the characteristics of aquamarine as presented in available resources, focusing on its use in contemporary jewelry and its symbolic significance.
History and Lore
While a comprehensive historical account is not provided within the available sources, it is clear that aquamarine has long been valued for its aesthetic qualities and symbolic meaning. The sources highlight its association with calmness, clarity, and courage, suggesting a historical understanding of the stone’s perceived properties. Modern interpretations continue to emphasize these qualities, making it a popular choice for gifts representing hope and serenity. Honey Willow, a jewelry business founded in 2010, specifically notes the symbolism of aquamarine, indicating a continued appreciation for its traditional meanings. The stone’s use in birthstone jewelry suggests a connection to personal significance and the celebration of life’s moments.
Gemological Properties and Appearance
The provided sources primarily focus on aquamarine’s appearance in jewelry rather than detailed gemological properties. However, it is consistently described as a natural stone exhibiting a serene, light-blue hue. The size of aquamarine featured in necklaces varies, with one source mentioning a 3mm stone, while another features a 10x15mm charm. The sources emphasize that, being natural stones, variations in size, shape, and shade are to be expected. This natural variation contributes to the unique character of each piece.
Aquamarine is presented as being set in various metals, including sterling silver and 14k gold-fill (gold bonded to a base metal). 14k gold vermeil, another gold alloy, is also mentioned. These settings enhance the stone’s beauty and provide durability for everyday wear. The sources do not provide information on hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition.
Aquamarine in Contemporary Jewelry
The available sources showcase aquamarine primarily in the context of choker necklaces. Several businesses – Shokh Jewelry, Honey Willow, and IvyLaine Jewellery – offer aquamarine chokers as part of their birthstone collections. These necklaces are often handmade and designed to be versatile, with adjustable chains allowing for different lengths. Honey Willow’s designs include briolette chokers and trio chokers, offering variations in style. IvyLaine Jewellery offers a simple aquamarine necklace with a 16” + 2” chain.
A key feature of many of these necklaces is the option for personalization. Shokh Jewelry offers a personalized choker with a letter charm alongside the aquamarine. The ability to choose between silver and gold settings further enhances the customization options. Tiffany & Co. also features aquamarine jewelry, including pendants, earrings, bracelets, and rings, demonstrating the stone’s broader appeal within the fine jewelry market.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The sources highlight the quality of materials used in crafting aquamarine jewelry. IvyLaine Jewellery specifies the use of 925 sterling silver and 14k gold vermeil with at least 2.5 microns of gold, ensuring lasting durability and a radiant finish. Honey Willow emphasizes that their pieces are designed and handmade in Bath, England, indicating a commitment to craftsmanship and local production. The use of 14k gold-fill is also noted, offering a durable and affordable alternative to solid gold.
Care and Cleaning
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions, the mention of sterling silver and gold-fill suggests that standard jewelry care practices should be followed. These include avoiding harsh chemicals, storing the jewelry in a soft pouch, and gently cleaning with a soft cloth. Given the potential for variations in the stones, careful handling is recommended to prevent damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As previously mentioned, aquamarine is associated with calmness, clarity, and courage. IvyLaine Jewellery explicitly states this symbolism, reinforcing the stone’s traditional meaning. The light-blue hue of aquamarine itself evokes feelings of tranquility and peace, contributing to its symbolic association with serenity. The sources do not delve into more extensive metaphysical beliefs surrounding the stone.
Purchasing and Delivery
The sources provide information regarding purchasing and delivery options. Honey Willow and other businesses offer delivery to various locations, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia. Delivery options range from free courier services to faster, express options. Specific details regarding import duties and taxes are provided for international orders, with the responsibility for these charges falling on the recipient.
Aquamarine Variations and Customization
The sources emphasize that aquamarine is a natural stone, meaning each gem will exhibit unique characteristics. Variations in size, shape, and shade are to be expected and contribute to the individual beauty of each piece. The ability to customize necklaces with different chain lengths and metal settings further enhances the personalization options. Some designs, like those from Honey Willow, allow for the addition of multiple birthstones, creating a unique and meaningful piece of jewelry.
Sources
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a captivating gemstone celebrated for its serene blue hue and symbolic associations with calmness, clarity, and courage. The available sources demonstrate its popularity in contemporary jewelry, particularly in delicate choker necklaces crafted from sterling silver and gold. The emphasis on handmade craftsmanship, personalization options, and the natural variations within each stone contribute to the unique appeal of aquamarine jewelry. While the provided information is limited in scope, it offers a valuable glimpse into the enduring beauty and significance of this cherished birthstone.