Aquamarine, celebrated as the traditional birthstone for March, holds a prominent place in both jewelry and sentiment. Its serene, water-like hues of blue have captivated cultures for centuries, and today, it is frequently chosen as a meaningful gift, particularly as a “push present” to commemorate the arrival of a March-born baby. This article will explore the history, gemological properties, symbolism, and practical considerations surrounding aquamarine, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of aquamarine with the month of March is well-established, appearing on both traditional and modern birthstone lists. While sources do not offer conflicting accounts regarding the exact date of its initial recognition as a birthstone, its historical use extends back much further. The name “aquamarine” itself is derived from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), aptly describing its color.
Beyond its designation as a birthstone, aquamarine has accumulated rich lore over time. It is believed to bring harmony to relationships, making it a particularly fitting gift for newlyweds or, as is increasingly common, for new parents navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood. This symbolism contributes to its popularity as a push present, a gift given to a mother by her partner upon the birth of their child.
The practice of giving push presents is a relatively recent tradition, but the selection of a birthstone, like aquamarine, adds a layer of personal significance and enduring value. Custom jewelry featuring a child’s birthstone, or a combination of the parents’ and child’s stones, is a particularly cherished option. One example details a bespoke ring crafted for a customer in the Netherlands, featuring aquamarine alongside pink tourmaline and a bi-color sapphire, representing the mother, daughter, and father respectively.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the sources do not detail the geological formation of aquamarine, they highlight its aesthetic qualities and suitability for jewelry. The gem’s color ranges from very light to light pale blue, blue-green, and teal, offering versatility in design. This range of hues complements various precious metals, including white gold, sterling silver, platinum, yellow gold, and rose gold, making it an easy gemstone to incorporate into different styles.
The sources do not specify particular mining locations for aquamarine.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine’s appeal extends beyond its color to its durability and brilliance. It is a suitable gemstone for everyday wear, owing in part to its hardness. While a specific Mohs hardness value is not provided in the sources, diamonds, often paired with aquamarine, are noted to rank a 10 on the Mohs scale, indicating exceptional durability.
The sources emphasize the gemstone’s versatility in jewelry design. Aquamarine is frequently featured in rings, pendants, and earrings, often accented with diamonds to enhance its sparkle. Bezel settings and delicate stacking rings are popular choices for those seeking a minimalist aesthetic. Halo settings, where aquamarine is surrounded by diamonds, are also favored for their elegance.
The cost of aquamarine jewelry varies depending on several factors, including the precious metal used and the presence of diamonds. Jewelry crafted from sterling silver with no diamonds will be the most affordable, while pieces featuring 14-karat gold or diamonds will command a higher price. However, even with diamonds, affordable options are readily available.
A table summarizing the properties and considerations for aquamarine jewelry, based on the provided sources, is shown below:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Birthstone Month | March |
| Color | Light blue, blue-green, teal |
| Metal Pairing | White gold, silver, platinum, yellow gold, rose gold |
| Durability | Suitable for everyday wear (comparable to diamond) |
| Cost | Varies based on metal and diamond inclusion |
| Symbolism | Harmony, stability in relationships |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with aquamarine centers around its connection to water and the sea. It is believed to promote harmony and stability, particularly in relationships. This symbolism makes it a thoughtful gift for couples and new parents.
Beyond its association with relationships, some sources suggest that emeralds (the May birthstone) were once thought to cure diseases, though this claim is presented as historical rather than a current belief. Aquamarine, while not explicitly linked to healing in these sources, is valued for its aesthetic beauty and symbolic meaning.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific instructions for the care and cleaning of aquamarine. However, given its suitability for everyday wear, it can be inferred that it is relatively durable and can withstand normal handling.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal. Its serene blue hues, versatility in design, and association with harmony make it a cherished choice for jewelry and a particularly meaningful gift as a push present. Whether set in a simple solitaire ring or incorporated into a custom-designed piece alongside other birthstones, aquamarine continues to captivate and inspire. Its enduring popularity reflects not only its beauty but also the enduring human desire to mark life’s special moments with lasting symbols of love and connection.