Aquamarine, the Birthstone of March…

This article is going to talk about the March Birthstone, Aquamarine.
 
We'll cover a brief overview, some history and give you some tips for buying this beautifully coloured gem.
 
 

Aquamarine

 

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"Aquamarines vary in colour from deep blue to blue-green of different intensities, caused by traces of iron in the beryl crystal. Naturally occurring deep blue stones are the most prized because they are rare and expensive. However, yellow beryl stones can be heated to change them to blue aquamarines.
 
The aquamarine – also called the “poor man’s diamond” – is a form of the mineral beryl that also includes other gemstones such as the emerald, morganite, and heliodor. Beryl consists of four elements: beryllium, aluminium, silicon, and oxygen. Beryl occurs as free six-sided crystals in rock veins unaffected by shock and weathering that otherwise destroy gem deposits. It is a relatively hard gem, ranking after the diamond, sapphire, ruby, alexandrite, and topaz.
 
The best commercial source of aquamarines is Brazil. High-quality stones are also found in Colombia, the Ural Mountains of Russia, the island of Malagasy, and India. In the United States, Colorado, Maine, and North Carolina are the best sources.
 
The name aquamarine was derived by the Romans, “aqua,” meaning water, and “mare,” meaning sea, because it looked like sea water. Aquamarines were believed to have originated from the jewel caskets of sirens, washed ashore from the depths of the sea. They were considered sacred to Neptune, Roman god of the sea. This association with the sea made it the sailors’ gem, promising prosperous and safe voyages, as well as protection against perils and monsters of the sea. Its first documented use was by the Greeks between 480-300 BC. They wore aquamarine amulets engraved with Poseidon (the Greek god of the sea) on a chariot.
 
Beginning in the Roman period, the aquamarine was believed to possess medicinal and healing powers, curing ailments of the stomach, liver, jaws, and throat. During the Middle Ages, it was believed to be an effective antidote against poison. Aquamarines were thought to be the source of power for soothsayers, who called it the “magic mirror,” and used it for telling fortunes and answering questions about the future. It is said that Emperor Nero used it as an eyeglass 2,000 years ago. Much later, aquamarines were used as glasses in Germany to correct shortsightedness. In fact, the German name for eyeglasses today is “brille,” derived from the mineral beryl."

 
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Some tips for buying Aquamarine...

 

"Aquamarine is a beautiful stone to purchase for any occasion, but especially for someone with a March birthday or to celebrate or re-kindle romantic love. The colour ranges from nearly clear to a strong dark blue and is a perfect way to communicate affection, tranquillity, and peace.
 
Like diamonds, aquamarine can be judged along the lines of cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight.
 
First, visit an AGS jeweller, who will be happy to help you pick out the perfect piece. Next, look at the stone’s cut. Since aquamarine can be very lightly coloured (and sometimes appear almost colourless), cut is very important to the overall appearance of the stone and how saturated or even the colour appears.
 
While you’re of course welcome to choose the colour that most appeals to you, it’s generally accepted that lighter coloured aquamarines are less valuable than the stronger, deeper hues of blue or blue green.
 
Next, take a look at the stone’s clarity. Most cut gems do not have inclusions that are visible to the eye, and some rarer or more expensive aquamarines are available without visible inclusions, as well.
 
Since aquamarine crystals can grow to be quite large, larger cut gemstones are possible to purchase as a part of beautiful statement pieces. Princess Diana had a famous aquamarine ring and bracelet set, and the Queen has a breathtaking set of aquamarine jewels that include a large tiara, necklace, earrings, and bracelet.
 
While you may not be looking to buy in the “crown jewels” range, even smaller aquamarines make for lovely solitaires or companion jewels in larger pieces. And, of course, the symbolism or sentiment behind the purchase can make aquamarine priceless to the wearer."

 
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We hope you enjoyed this article about Aquamarine, it really is beautiful, isn't it? If you are out and about in Kirkcaldy, why not come give us a visit and see what we have in? Or give us a call on: 01592 264305 and we'll hopefully see you soon!

The following article Aquamarine, the Birthstone of March… Read more on: A.K. Campbell and Sons Jewellers Blog