Besides being our favorite 2000’s romantic-comedy film, aquamarine is March’s birthstone. Aquamarine is a dazzling gemstone that has captivated people for centuries. It offers a refreshing light blue gem associated with tranquility and harmony, but there is way more to aquamarine than just washing away your worries or setting the mood for a relaxing spa day. Jedora has created a quick overview of aquamarine to help you understand the meaning and history of this stone, as well as a few of our favorite aquamarine jewelry pieces!

Aquamarine has been cherished since ancient times, with reports of sailors and royals alike utilizing the stone for a myriad of purposes. Aquamarine was thought to be the treasure of mermaids, and sailors believed it would protect them from the dangers of the sea. The gemstone has long been associated with tranquility, serenity and clarity. Moreover, aquamarine itself is so clear that it was used to correct shortsightedness before modern glasses were developed? Legend says Emperor Nero used an aquamarine as the world’s first eyeglass to correct his short-sightedness.

In more modern times, and outside of coastal regions, aquamarine was first discovered in Siberia in 1723. By the end of the 18th century, large deposits were mined inland, rather than by the sea. In the United States, aquamarine has been mined in Colorado since the late 1800s and has been the state gemstone since 1971. In the 20th and 21st centuries, leading producers of aquamarine include Brazil, Pakistan and Nigeria.

Brazil is not only a major supplier of aquamarine, but it's also where the Dom Pedro was originally mined; for it's the world’s largest cut aquamarine that measures 14 inches high and weighs 10,363 carats(4.6 pounds). You can see this massive gem for yourself at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C.

Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin words "aqua" meaning water, and "marina" meaning sea, which accurately describes its color that resembles the ocean. This beautiful gemstone is said to symbolize loyalty, honesty and friendship, making it a meaningful present for loved ones. Aquamarine is also believed to bring clarity of mind and help the wearer communicate their feelings effectively.
 

Additionally, aquamarine is a type of beryl, a mineral group that includes green emerald, red beryl, pink morganite, yellow heliodor, colorless goshenite and pink-red pezzottaite. All these colors are made by different deposits of metals within the same mineral.. The most valuable aquamarines have a deep blue color, but they can also range from pale blue to teal green; moreover, this gemstone is typically cut and heated to enhance its color. High heat can cause aquamarine to permanently change colors from sea foam green to light blue. Sky blue aquamarine is very popular, so most commercial aquamarine is heat treated to meet consumer demand for this beautiful blue gem. and brilliance, making it a popular choice for jewelry such as rings, necklaces and earrings.

We wouldn’t want to leave you all hanging with all of this Aquamarine talk, so we’ve selected a few of our favorite pieces (at all price points!) so you can adorn yourself or a loved one with this special gem!

• See Jedora’s collection of loose gemstones to make your own custom birthstone piece, such as our collection of loose aquamarine gemstones.
• Earrings are a popular way to wear birthstone jewelry, but rather than the classic pearl earring, try out an aquamarine solitaire stud! Or, for you fashionistas out there, try emerald cut aquamarine earrings.

• An Aquamarine ring is perfect for all occasions, from anniversaries to engagements to birthdays!
• Aquamarine bracelets are a more subtle way to show off that you’re a March baby. Add your birthstone to your wrist stack with an aquamarine cuff or an aquamarine tennis bracelet!
• Last but certainly not least, Aquamarine necklaces are a stunning way to show off your collarbone and decolletage while rocking your birthstone! Go for an aquamarine statement necklace, featuring other nautical gemstones like baroque pearls, or a minimalist aquamarine heirloom necklace!