The gemstone Aquamarine is the modern March birthstone as adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. I Aquamarine is suggested as a gem to give on the 16th and 19th wedding anniversaries.

AQUAMARINE
The Softer Side of Blue

The Greeks proclaimed this highly prized, light blue gem
aquamarine, because it sparkles like the sea touched by the sun. Found in an array of pastel tones from very light to medium blue, aquamarine is often tinted by a splash of green. The delicate greenish blue of a fine aquamarine conjures up images of dancing light on the purest of tropical waters.

AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine holds its place securely among the world’s
most desirable gems. Ranging in tone from a very light to
medium blue, many aquamarines will exhibit a slight tint
of green in their body color. Generally the darker shades
are more valued, but many people prefer the lively brightness of lighter hues. Aquamarine is readily available in larger sizes over 5 carats. In fact, gem quality aquamarine crystals weighing several hundred pounds have been discovered.

BIRTHSTONE
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March.

ORIGINS
Today’s most important source for aquamarine is Brazil.
Other sources include Zambia, Nigeria, Madagascar and the United States.

TREATMENTS
Virtually all aquamarine is heated to minimize the greenish
component of its color, making it appear a purer blue. Heat treated aquamarines are generally stable, but their color may fade if exposed to prolonged periods of high heat or direct sunlight.

CARE
Aquamarines should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner or an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Aquamarines can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or mild soap and lukewarm water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.