The gemstone aquamarine is prominently recognized as the birthstone for March. The provided sources showcase a variety of aquamarine jewelry available for purchase, including rings, earrings, and pendants, often set in sterling silver. These pieces range in price, reflecting variations in design and craftsmanship. Aquamarine is frequently presented as a heart-shaped gemstone, particularly in pendants and stud earrings, and is often described as a blue gemstone. The sources primarily focus on the commercial availability of aquamarine jewelry, offering a glimpse into its current market presence.
History and Lore
While the provided sources do not detail the historical origins or lore surrounding aquamarine, the consistent presentation of the gemstone as a March birthstone indicates a long-standing association with this month. The prevalence of heart-shaped designs suggests a connection to themes of love and affection, though this is not explicitly stated within the provided materials. The sources focus on the modern context of aquamarine as a commercially available gemstone, rather than its historical or mythological significance.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not provide any information regarding the geological formation or mining locations of aquamarine. Therefore, this aspect of the gemstone cannot be discussed based on the provided data.
Gemological Properties
The sources primarily describe aquamarine as a “blue gemstone.” They do not offer any specific details regarding its chemical composition, hardness, clarity, or cut. The available information is limited to the visual appearance of the gemstone as presented in commercial listings. The sources do mention “Aquamarine Cushion Cut” and “Aquamarine Heart shape,” indicating that aquamarine is amenable to various cutting styles. The materials also indicate that aquamarine is used in conjunction with 925 sterling silver in jewelry.
A summary of the properties, as gleaned from the sources, can be presented as follows:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Cut | Cushion Cut, Heart Shape |
| Setting | 925 Sterling Silver |
| Form | Gemstone (used in rings, earrings, pendants) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources do not explicitly state any symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with aquamarine. However, the frequent use of heart shapes in aquamarine jewelry suggests a possible association with love, affection, and emotional connection. The presentation of aquamarine as a gift item, particularly for daughters and for birthdays or Christmas, implies a sentiment of care and appreciation. The listing of an “Astrological Aquamarine Ring” hints at a potential connection to astrological beliefs, though the specifics are not detailed.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide any information regarding the care and cleaning of aquamarine jewelry. Therefore, advice on maintaining the gemstone cannot be provided based on the available data.
Market Availability and Pricing
The provided sources are primarily listings from Walmart.ca, showcasing a wide range of aquamarine jewelry. The price points vary considerably, from $18.99 for FaithHeart stud earrings to $499.00 for a Jewlr heart birthstone ring. Arena Gems Jewellery offers a range of aquamarine rings and pendants, with prices ranging from $54.40 to $168.87. Precious Stars offers sterling silver stud earrings with cubic zirconia for $75.53.
The variety of price points suggests that the quality and craftsmanship of the aquamarine jewelry vary significantly. The presence of cubic zirconia options indicates that some pieces may not feature genuine aquamarine. The availability of “Pickup available” options suggests that many of these items are stocked locally.
The sources demonstrate a robust market for aquamarine jewelry, particularly in the form of rings, earrings, and pendants. The consistent association with March as the birth month likely contributes to its popularity as a gift item.
Aquamarine Jewelry Styles
The sources highlight several popular styles of aquamarine jewelry:
- Heart-shaped pendants: These are frequently presented as gifts, particularly for daughters.
- Heart-shaped stud earrings: A smaller, more delicate option for everyday wear.
- Solitaire rings: Featuring a single aquamarine gemstone, often in a minimalist setting.
- Huggie dangle earrings: A modern style incorporating aquamarine gemstones.
- Astrological rings: Suggesting a connection to astrological beliefs.
- Cushion cut rings: Showcasing a classic and elegant cut for aquamarine.
The consistent use of sterling silver as a setting material suggests a preference for affordability and a complementary aesthetic.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a limited but focused view of aquamarine as a commercially available gemstone, primarily in the context of birthstone jewelry for March. The gemstone is consistently presented as a blue gemstone, often cut into heart shapes and set in sterling silver. While the sources do not provide detailed information on the history, geology, or gemological properties of aquamarine, they demonstrate its current market presence and popularity as a gift item. The range of prices and styles available suggests a diverse consumer base and a thriving market for aquamarine jewelry.