The iconic birthstone for March is aquamarine, ideal for who love clear skies, ocean waves, and of course the color blue! For those who prefer a more organic, earthy look, bloodstone is an alternative that is sure to delight. Read on to discover more about aquamarine jewelry and bloodstone jewelry.
Aquamarine: BERYL VARIETY, COUSIN TO THE EMERALD
Aquamarine is reminiscent of a crystal-cool blue body of water or blue skies on a cloudless day. In fact, aquamarine is named for water of the sea in Latin! Hues range from light to pale blue to sea-green or a slight bluish-green.
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, a cousin stone to the emerald, which grows in areas such as Sri Lanka, Brazil, Pakistan, Colorado, and Idaho, just to name a few.
Aquamarine: The Spiritual & Metaphysical Properties
Known for its oceanic color, aquamarine was is often referred to as the treasure of the mermaids, according to folklore. It was used by sailors as a good luck token and for protection when out at sea, and for prayer and meditation throughout the course of history.
Some jewelry wearers believe in aquamarine’s restorative properties, that it possesses powerful energy that can rejuvenate the body and mind. It’s also believed to lift spirits and help the wearer solve problems with a clear mind, offer provision and good luck, and promote love and affection. Aquamarine even has been associated with providing aid in legal matters and litigation.
Aquamarine Jewelry, Wearability & Designs
Aquamarine rates 7.50-8.0 on the Moh’s scale of hardness, which means that aquamarine is perfectly suited for frequent wear, but do take care to treat it like a piece of fine jewelry.
Fine aquamarines combine the right amount of color and clarity, along with careful cutting. You’ll find aquamarines with no visible inclusions in the following cuts:
- Emerald-cut
- Oval brilliant cut
- Round brilliant cut
- Radiant-cut
- Fancy cuts
- Cabochons
- Concave cuts
- And more
Aquamarine jewelry is popular and suits a variety of budgets and styles. This year it is especially popular in assymetrical cabochons and paired with diamonds. Aquamarine jewelry is also used to celebrate the 19th wedding anniversary!
Aquamarine crystals can grow to be quite large, making the gem perfect for statement pieces. The gem can be set into platinum, silver, and white, rose, and yellow gold. Choose an aquamarine ring, necklace, or bracelet with diamond accents to highlight its sparkle and shine, or go for a simpler design that allows the stone to speak for itself. For a more modern look go for an East-West set aquamarine or a bezel setting.
Bloodstone: THE LESS COMMON MARCH BIRTHSTONE
Bloodstone is the other March birthstone, lovely and beautiful in its own right. It’s a variety of chalcedony, relative to quartz. Bloodstone is also an alternative birthstone for February.
Used by professional energy healers, bloodstones are said to possess incredibly strong healing powers and can increase personal mental and emotional strength and energy. They’re also associated with the lower chakras.
Leave a comment