Aquamarine is recognized as the birthstone for March, and is associated with luck and transformation. This article details information about aquamarine, specifically referencing its connection to Swarovski crystals as presented in available sources. The information focuses on the stone’s symbolic meaning, its use in jewelry, and basic care instructions.
History and Lore
Aquamarine is considered a stone of luck and transformation. While detailed historical accounts are not provided within the available sources, the stone’s association with positive change suggests a long-held belief in its beneficial properties. The sources highlight its modern relevance as a gift for those born in March, indicating a continuation of the tradition of assigning gemstones to specific months. The lore surrounding aquamarine, as presented, centers on its ability to positively influence situations – transforming “nonsense” into something better, or even bringing about favorable outcomes.
Gemological Properties & Swarovski Aquamarine
The provided sources do not detail the gemological properties of natural aquamarine, such as its chemical composition, hardness, or refractive index. However, they focus on Swarovski aquamarine, which are manufactured crystals designed to mimic the appearance of the natural gemstone. These crystals are used extensively in jewelry making.
Swarovski aquamarine crystals are specifically noted for their dazzling appearance and are used in handmade wire-wrapped jewelry, such as Tree of Life pendants. The sources do not provide details on the manufacturing process of these crystals, but they do mention that they are available in a variety of colors, including the aquamarine shade.
Aquamarine in Jewelry
The sources emphasize the use of aquamarine, particularly Swarovski aquamarine, in handcrafted jewelry. The Tree of Life pendant is specifically mentioned, featuring twelve dazzling Swarovski crystals in aquamarine. These pendants are available with either sterling silver or copper wire, offering customization options. The sources also indicate a willingness to accommodate custom and personalized jewelry orders, suggesting a flexible approach to design and material selection.
The sources also briefly touch upon gold-plated jewelry, noting that it consists of a layer of gold over a brass core and should be cared for to prevent tarnishing. Gold-filled jewelry is presented as a more durable alternative, consisting of layers of solid gold pressure-bonded to brass, and is suitable for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
Caring for Your Jewelry
The sources provide practical advice on caring for jewelry featuring aquamarine and other materials. Wire-wrapped pieces may have rough edges, even after polishing, and should be handled with care to avoid snagging delicate fabrics. It is recommended to remove jewelry before showering, bathing, or sleeping. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth, and some orders may include a cleaning pad. For gold-plated jewelry, it is advised to avoid wearing it in the shower or while using oils or sunscreen.
Customization and Wholesale Options
The sources indicate that the featured store is open to wholesale requests and offers customization options for jewelry. Almost all jewelry can be personalized to meet specific customer preferences. This flexibility allows for the creation of unique and meaningful pieces.
Shipping and International Considerations
The jewelry is shipped from Canada, with a typical processing time of about a week. Free standard worldwide shipping is offered on orders over CAD$75.00. Shipping to Canada and the US includes tracking, while international shipping is untracked. Buyers are responsible for any customs duties or taxes associated with cross-border shipments. Upgrades to faster shipping options and tracked international shipping are available at checkout.
Aquamarine and Chakras
The sources mention “Swarovski Aquamarine Chakra Info,” but do not elaborate on the specific chakra associations. This suggests a potential connection between the stone and energy centers within the body, but further information is not provided.
Gold Filled vs. Gold Plated
The sources provide a comparison between 14kt gold-filled and gold-plated jewelry. Gold-filled jewelry consists of layers of solid 14kt gold bonded to a brass core, making it durable and a high-quality alternative to solid gold. The gold layer is significantly thicker than in gold-plated jewelry (approximately 100 times thicker). Gold-filled jewelry is suitable for long-term wear and individuals with sensitivities. Gold-plated jewelry, on the other hand, has a thinner layer of gold applied through an electroplating process and requires more careful maintenance to prevent tarnishing.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, particularly in its Swarovski crystal form, is a popular choice for jewelry, especially as a birthstone for March. The stone is associated with luck, transformation, and positive energy. The available sources highlight the craftsmanship involved in creating handmade pieces, the importance of proper care, and the availability of customization options. While the sources do not provide extensive gemological details about natural aquamarine, they offer valuable insights into the use and appreciation of Swarovski aquamarine crystals in contemporary jewelry design.