Cool Aquamarine is the Favorite for March

Aquamarine is the birthstone gem for the month of March. It’s beautiful cool blues to shades of green are the perfect wake-up after the dreariness of winter’s slumber.

The name Aquamarine comes from Latin for seawater. Legends surrounding the gem say that the gemstone was meant to keep sailors safe on their journeys across the seas. It was also thought that Aquamarine would enhance the happiness of marriages*.

The majority of aquamarine is found in Brazil, however, this beautiful gem is also found in Russia, Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya and Central Madagascar…along with Colorado. One of my favorite exhibits of aquamarine is located at the Denver Museum of Natural History. It’s an amazing specimen that was found in the Rocky Mountains and meticulously mined and placed on display in the museum.

Aquamarine has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8.0, which makes it an excellent gemstone for all types of jewelry. Care should always be taken when cleaning any gemstones. Common treatments include heat to enhance color of the gemstone.

*source: GIA website on Aquamarine