Born in March? Your Birthstone of the Month is a gorgeous Aquamarine. Discover more about it’s history, appearance and mythology.
AN Aquamarine & DIAMOND RING
With Aquamarines and Diamonds set in 9ct White Gold
About Aquamarine
Aquamarines are named after the sea, the blue-green hue reminiscent of a cool, beautiful ocean. They come in a range of blue-greens, from a subtle pale blue to a deep blue, and a greenish blue.
While the main sources of aquamarines are Minas Gerais in Brazil and the Karakorum Foothills of Pakistan, they are mined around the world, from Kenya to Colorado, China, Myanmar and Russia.
What to look for in aquamarine jewellery? With variations in hue, you can choose your preferred shade and opt for clear blue or a green-blue. Most quality aquamarines are clean with good transparency. While emerald-cut aquamarines are popular, they can be cut into virtually any shape, including oval and round. Aquamarines are also available in larger carats, with the darker shades tending to be 5ct or more.
Aquamarines are stunning stones that make an impact as either a standalone piece, or set with diamonds or other gemstones.
History & Mythology
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the name is derived from the Latin words aqua, meaning “water” and marina, meaning “of the sea.” Roman fisherman apparently believed it brought protection on the water, while the presence of the mineral beryl was also thought to keep the wearer safe, amiable and of sharp intellect.
Aquamarines have been discovered in ancient cultures, including Egypt, Rome and Greece, with the Greeks often carving aquamarine for intaglio.
Famous aquamarines include the Roosevelt Aquamarine (a 1,298ct stone gifted to Eleanor Roosevelt in 1936 by the Brazilian government and now in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in New York), the Smithsonian Museums "Most Precious" (a 1000ct aquamarine) and the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, shaped into an obelisk and believed to be the largest faceted aquamarine in the world. Also with the Smithsonian, it is now housed in the National History Museum in Washington.
Also the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary, aquamarine has also long been associated with love. One mythology states that Neptune, the King of the Sea, gave aquamarines to the mermaids. Since then, they bring love to all who own them.
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Prischl is a leading Sydney jewellery, crafting exquisite bespoke jewellery and sourcing antique and vintage jewels from around the world. To enquire, please visit our online gallery, drop into our boutique in Sydney’s Northbridge, or contact us.