March Birthstones: Aquamarine and Aqua Spinel
March, a month that bridges the end of winter and the beginning of spring, is represented by a duo of birthstones that are as unique and beautiful as the season itself. These March birthstone gems, each with a distinct look and sense of character, offer an incredible range of choices for those born in the month.
What is the Birthstone for March?
The March birthstone is traditionally aquamarine, with its serene blue hues capturing the essence of the transitioning seasons. However, though aquamarine may be the first birthstone for March that comes to mind, there are other lovely gems to consider.
Aqua spinel also holds a significant place as alternative gem for this month. While aquamarine has long been cherished for its calming sea-blue colors, aqua spinel has emerged as a vibrant and captivating choice, offering durability and brilliance that rivals that of more well-known gems
Each of these gems holds unique appeal, providing a range of options for March birthstone jewelry.
What Color is March’s Birthstone?
Aquamarine famously boasts a range of blue tones, from the palest hint of the sky at dawn to the deep, clear blue of tropical seas. Its color is its hallmark, embodying the tranquility and purity of water.
Aqua spinel, on the other hand, exists as a captivating alternative with its vibrant blue-to-blue-green colors. This gemstone can rival the aquamarine in beauty, offering a brilliance and intensity that makes it stand out. Its hues are often reminiscent of the clear March skies, bringing a fresh pop of color to any ensemble.
March's birthstones offer something for every taste and occasion.
Aquamarine Birthstones
With its captivating shades of blue, aquamarine truly embodies the serene beauty of the sea. This gemstone is not only March's most well-known birthstone but also a symbol of clarity, calmness and communication. Its name, derived from Latin words meaning "water" and "sea," reflecting its connection to the ocean's tranquil blues.
Historically, aquamarine has been associated with the element of water. To many, it symbolizes purity, youth and hope, making it an ideal choice for celebrating spring's arrival. Sailors once carried aquamarine to ensure a safe voyage and to ward off seasickness. Today, it is often said to represent clear communication and enhance the wearer’s ability to express themselves clearly and confidently.
The use of aquamarine dates back to ancient times when it was valued by various cultures for its supposed healing and protective properties. It was particularly prized in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was believed to bring love and rejuvenate the married. During the Middle Ages, aquamarine was also thought to rekindle love in long-married couples and provide courage and foresight to warriors in battle.
The finest quality aquamarines are predominantly found in Brazil, a significant source of this gemstone for over two centuries. Other notable sources include the mountainous terrains of Pakistan, Madagascar, Nigeria and Russia. Each location produces aquamarine with distinct characteristics, from the light, almost transparent blues to the more saturated shades.
Aquamarine ranks a solid 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it durable enough for everyday wear with the proper care. To maintain its brilliance, clean your aquamarine designs with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone. Store your aquamarine styles away from other gemstones to prevent scratches and wrap them in a soft cloth to protect their beauty.
Regular care ensures that aquamarine styles remain a symbol of serenity and purity. Whether set in rings, necklaces or bracelets, aquamarine brings a touch of calm and a reminder of the sea's tranquil waters to everyday life.
Aqua Spinel Birthstones
Aqua spinel is a vibrant blue gemstone often compared to the clear oceans of the world's most scenic tropical regions. This gemstone is becoming increasingly popular for its striking beauty and remarkable durability, making it an excellent choice for jewelry that stands the test of time.
Aqua spinel offers a refreshing and contemporary alternative to traditional March birthstones, especially appealing to those who want something unique to add to their jewelry collections.
captivating blue hues evoke peace and relaxation, reminiscent of a serene sea. This gemstone is believed to foster healing and renewal, making it a lovely symbol of new beginnings. Aqua spinel's vibrant color also represents the power of clear communication and the expression of one's truth with clarity and confidence.
Historically, spinel was often mistaken for other gemstones, such as sapphire, due to its similar appearance. It was in the late 19th century that spinel was recognized as a distinct mineral. Aqua spinel has gained attention for its unique color spectrum and exceptional qualities. It has since carved out its niche in the gemstone world, celebrated for both its beauty and its rarity.
Aqua spinel is sourced from various global locations, including Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania and Myanmar (Burma). These regions are known for producing high-quality spinel in multiple colors, with the aqua-blue varieties being among the most prized for their clarity and vibrant hue.
Aqua spinel boasts excellent durability, ranking eight on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes it suitable for everyday wear, although it should be treated carefully to maintain its luster.
To clean aqua spinel jewelry, gently wash it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, then dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing the gemstone to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures, which can damage its appearance. Storing aqua spinel designs separately from other jewelry can help prevent scratches and keep them looking their best.
March Birthstone Jewelry: Necklaces, Bracelets, Rings and More
While aquamarine has traditionally held the spotlight as the birthstone for March, aqua spinel has emerged as a captivating and contemporary choice for those seeking something different. At James Avery Artisan Jewelry, we celebrate the unique beauty of lab-created aqua spinel with an exquisite collection of March birthstone jewelry that includes necklaces, bracelets, rings and more. Each style is designed to highlight the vibrant blue hues of aqua spinel, making it a standout choice for anyone born in March or anyone drawn to the stunning color of this gemstone.
Our lab-created aqua spinel designs offer a fresh take on traditional birthstone jewelry. From elegant necklaces that feature a single, luminous aqua spinel gem as the centerpiece to bracelets and rings that combine aqua spinel with intricate metalwork, there’s something to suit every style. The versatility of aqua spinel allows for designs that range from the simplicity of a solitaire setting to more elaborate, mixed-metal designs, ensuring that each design is as unique as the person wearing it.
Choosing a design of aqua spinel jewelry as a gift is a beautiful way to celebrate a March birthday, an anniversary or any significant milestone. Not only does it offer the wearer a design of jewelry that's both beautiful and durable, but it also gives them a meaningful symbol of their special month. Over time, these designs can become cherished family heirlooms, passed down through generations as a lasting reminder of love and legacy.
Shop June Birthstone Jewelry at James Avery Artisan Jewelry
At James Avery Artisan Jewelry, we invite you to explore our collection of March birthstone jewelry. Our lab-created aqua spinel designs are crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that each design meets our high standards of quality and beauty.
Whether you're drawn to the vibrant blue of aqua spinel for its aesthetic appeal or its symbolism of clarity and calm, our collection offers a range of styles to suit your taste. From elegant pendants to stunning rings, each style is designed to celebrate the beauty of March's alternative birthstone in a way that's as unique and special as the moments and memories you wish to commemorate.
Let us help you mark life's milestones with elegance and a splash of March's serene blue. Browse the full selection of gemstone and birthstone jewelry from James Avery today.