What's the Birthstone for March?

Written By Allie Perry March 1, 2024

What’s the Birthstone for March?

If you were born in March, you have the mesmerizing aquamarine as your birthstone! January and February both have bold color in their birthstones, but March celebrates the cool, serene beauty of aquamarine. Picture crystalline waters glistening under the sun – that's the essence of aquamarine. It's a symbol of tranquility and hope, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of March. Derived from the Latin words "aqua" and "marina," meaning water and sea, respectively, aquamarine evokes images of pristine ocean depths and azure skies.

This gemstone has a rich history, dating back centuries. Ancient civilizations revered aquamarine for its purported mystical properties, believing it to be a talisman for sailors, offering protection and ensuring safe voyages across treacherous waters. Legends tell of aquamarine being favored by the Roman god Neptune, further emphasizing its association with the sea and maritime endeavors.

What sets aquamarine apart is its captivating color range, which varies from delicate sky blue to deep sea green. Its serene hues symbolize tranquility, inner peace, and emotional balance, serving as a reminder of the calming presence of water amidst life's tumultuous currents.

Aquamarine's clarity and brilliance enhance its allure, imbuing it with a luminous quality that mesmerizes the beholder. Whether fashioned into exquisite jewelry or displayed in its raw, natural form, aquamarine never fails to captivate with its understated elegance and timeless charm.

These are some varieties of Aquamarine:

1. Santa Maria Aquamarine: This variety is prized for its vivid blue color, reminiscent of the waters off the coast of Santa Maria de Itabira in Brazil. It has a rich, intense blue hue with hints of green. Santa Maria aquamarine is considered rare and highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts.

2. Espírito Santo Aquamarine: Named after the Espírito Santo region in Brazil, this variety of aquamarine is known for its medium to light blue color. It typically exhibits a pure blue hue with little to no green undertones. While not as rare as Santa Maria aquamarine, Espírito Santo aquamarine is still valued for its clarity and color consistency.

3. Maxixe Aquamarine: Also known as "blue beryl," Maxixe aquamarine is a rare variety characterized by its deep blue color. Unlike other aquamarine varieties, Maxixe aquamarine derives its color from natural irradiation rather than trace elements like iron. However, this color is often unstable and may fade when exposed to light or heat, making Maxixe aquamarine less desirable for jewelry use.

4. Nigeria Aquamarine: Aquamarine from Nigeria is known for its strikingly vibrant blue color with subtle green undertones. It tends to have a high clarity and transparency, making it ideal for faceting. While not as well-known as Brazilian aquamarine, Nigerian aquamarine is gaining recognition for its quality and beauty.

5. Madagascar Aquamarine: Aquamarine from Madagascar typically displays a range of blue shades, from pale sky blue to deeper hues with hints of green. It is valued for its clarity and often exhibits a glassy luster. Madagascar aquamarine is relatively abundant compared to some other varieties, but high-quality specimens with intense color are still considered rare.

6. Pakistan Aquamarine: Aquamarine from Pakistan is renowned for its large crystal sizes and distinctive blue coloration. It often occurs in large, transparent crystals with a medium to dark blue hue. Pakistan aquamarine is highly valued for its clarity and color saturation, making it a prized gemstone among collectors.

Each variety of aquamarine possesses its own unique characteristics, from color intensity to clarity and rarity. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out specific varieties based on their individual preferences and desired qualities.

Historic symbolic meanings of Aquamarine:

Aquamarine has captivated civilizations throughout history, and various cultures attribute different symbolic meanings to this splendid gemstone:

• Protection for Sailors: In ancient times, aquamarine was believed to be a talisman for sailors, offering protection and ensuring safe voyages across treacherous waters. Its association with the sea and its calming blue color were thought to bring luck and safeguard against storms and shipwrecks.

• Courage and Clarity: Aquamarine's tranquil hues symbolize courage and clarity, encouraging individuals to navigate life's challenges with honesty and self-awareness. It is believed to instill a sense of calmness and inner strength, helping one face difficult situations with resilience and clarity of mind.

• Peace and Serenity: The soothing blue-green tones of aquamarine evoke feelings of peace and serenity, making it a symbol of tranquility and emotional balance. It is associated with promoting harmony within oneself and fostering a sense of peace in turbulent times.

• Spiritual Connection: Aquamarine is often linked to spiritual growth and enlightenment, facilitating a deeper connection with the divine. It is believed to open channels of communication with higher realms and aid in meditation, guiding individuals on their spiritual journey towards greater understanding and enlightenment.

• Hope and Renewal: The refreshing color of aquamarine has been associated with hope and renewal, particularly in times of struggle or adversity. It is believed to inspire optimism and encourage a fresh perspective, reminding individuals that brighter days are on the horizon.

• Protection from Poison: In medieval times, aquamarine was thought to counteract the effects of poison when worn as an amulet or talisman. It was believed that the gemstone could neutralize toxins and protect the wearer from harm.

Throughout history, aquamarine has been cherished not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its symbolic significance, serving as a source of inspiration, protection, and spiritual enlightenment for countless generations.

How do I take care of my Aquamarine:

Taking care of an aquamarine gemstone is relatively straightforward, but it's essential to handle it with care to preserve its beauty and longevity. Here are some tips on how to care for your aquamarine:

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Aquamarine can be sensitive to harsh chemicals found in cleaning products, perfumes, and cosmetics. To prevent damage or discoloration, avoid exposing your aquamarine jewelry to these chemicals. Always apply perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays before putting on your aquamarine jewelry.
• Gentle Cleaning: Clean your aquamarine jewelry regularly to maintain its luster and sparkle. Use a soft-bristled brush, such as a baby toothbrush, and mild soapy water to gently scrub the gemstone. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures can potentially damage aquamarine, so it's essential to avoid exposing it to sudden changes in temperature. Remove your aquamarine jewelry before engaging in activities such as hot baths, saunas, or swimming in hot tubs.
• Store Separately: To prevent scratches and damage, store your aquamarine jewelry separately from other gemstones and harder materials. Consider storing it in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to protect it from scratches and abrasions.
• Keep Away From Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV light can cause fading or discoloration in aquamarine. When not wearing your aquamarine jewelry, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve its color and clarity.
• Professional Cleaning: If your aquamarine jewelry requires deeper cleaning or maintenance, consider taking it to a professional jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection. They can safely clean and polish your jewelry to restore its shine and brilliance.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your aquamarine jewelry remains beautiful and sparkling for years to come. 

If you'd like more in-depth information about each birthstone including meaning and history, where these stones can be found in nature, and proper care and cleaning, be sure to explore this article from the Gemological Institute of America!

And if you’re ready to add some aquamarine jewelry to your own collection, click here to see what I have available for sale!