March welcomes a gemstone that captures the serenity of the sea. Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is treasured for its clear blue tones and luminous transparency. Its name is derived from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “water of the sea,” a fitting tribute to its oceanic hues.
Elegant and refreshing in appearance, aquamarine has long been associated with clarity, protection and renewal. Today, it remains one of the most admired blue gemstones in fine jewellery.
What Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, the same mineral group as emerald and morganite. While emerald is coloured by chromium and vanadium, aquamarine obtains its blue tones from trace amounts of iron within its crystal structure.
It is known for its exceptional clarity. Unlike emeralds, which often contain visible inclusions, aquamarines are typically eye-clean, allowing light to pass through with remarkable brilliance. This clarity enhances its fresh, tranquil appearance and makes it especially suitable for larger statement stones.
A Spectrum of Blue
Aquamarine ranges in colour from pale sky blue to deeper ocean blue. The intensity of colour depends on the concentration of iron and the conditions under which the crystal formed.
Santa Maria Aquamarine
Among the most prized varieties is the legendary Santa Maria aquamarine. Named after the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil, this variety is celebrated for its richly saturated blue with subtle green undertones. The term “Santa Maria colour” is now used in the trade to describe aquamarines that display this vivid, intense blue, regardless of origin.
Featured: The Twelve Blossoms Earrings with 12.47-carats of detachable Santa Maria Aquamarines, crafted in 18k White Gold. From the PORTRAITS OF PORCELAIN High Jewellery Collection.
Stones exhibiting this depth of colour are rare and command particular attention among collectors and connoisseurs. While there is no legal requirement regarding the usage of the term “Santa Maria”, it is always strongly recommended to obtain a gemstone certificate that professionally reflects the Santa Maria colour evaluation.
Heat Treatment
Many aquamarines undergo gentle heat treatment to reduce greenish undertones and enhance their pure blue appearance. This practice is stable and widely accepted within the jewellery industry.
Featured: The Fire of Life Earrings with 3.19-carats of Certified Unheated Aquamarines and White Mother of Pearl, crafted in 18k White and Black Gold. From the TATTOO High Jewellery Collection.
History and Symbolism
Aquamarine’s connection to the sea has shaped its symbolism for centuries. In ancient Rome, it was believed to safeguard sailors and ensure calm waters during voyages. Mariners often carried aquamarine talismans for protection.
During the Middle Ages, the stone was thought to rekindle love between married couples and promote harmony. It was also regarded as a symbol of youth, hope and good health.
In more recent history, aquamarine gained renewed prominence in royal jewellery. One of the most notable examples is the Brazilian aquamarine parure gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 for her coronation, which showcased the gemstone’s extraordinary clarity and scale.
Queen Elizabeth II attending the state banquet for the President of the Federal Republic of Brazil on 7th March, 2006. (Image source: townandcountrymag.com)
A favourite amongst royals, aquamarine is often seen on Sophie, Countess of Wessex, and Princess Diana, who commissioned a cocktail ring to match her aquamarine and pearl bracelet.
Left: Sophie, Duchess of Wessex wearing an Aquamarine tiara and matching necklace at the wedding of Prince Carl Philip of Sweden and Sofia Hellqvist on 13th June, 2015. Right: Princess Diana wearing her Aquamarine cocktail ring and matching Aquamarine and Pearl bracelet to a benefit dinner in Australia in October 1996. (Image source: townandcitymag.com)
As the March birthstone, aquamarine represents tranquillity, courage and clear communication, qualities that mirror its serene blue colour.
Aquamarine in Modern Jewellery
Aquamarine’s cool tone pairs beautifully with white gold and platinum, enhancing its crisp blue character. It also contrasts elegantly with champagne gold and yellow gold, offering a warmer interpretation of the stone.
Featured: The Garden Jewels ring with a 2.808-carat Certified Unheated Aquamarine, crafted in 18k Original Gold (Champagne Gold). From the HANGING GARDENS OF BABYLON High Jewellery Collection.
Its understated sophistication makes aquamarine equally suited to high jewellery creations and timeless everyday pieces. Explore Simone Jewels’ aquamarine designs to discover pieces that reflect the quiet strength and elegance of this remarkable gemstone.
