Sunday, February 27, 2011

Aquamarine - March Birthstone



The birthstone for March is aquamarine, which comes in light blue to a dark blue color. The name is derived from its seawater color. The deep blue stones are more valued, and it can sometimes be confused with blue topaz. The bluish-green colored stones are most recognized as aquamarine.

Aquamarine gets it color from iron and is found in coarse-grained granite. The Moh's hardness is a 7.5 - 8; so it's not a delicate stone. Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family along with morganite (pink) and emerald (green).

The best source for aquamarines is Brazil, but it can also be found in Australia, India, Kenya, and other countries. The largest specimen of morganite was found in coastal Maine.

It is believed to bring the wearer a peaceful sense of calm. I think I need to wear aquamarine more often!


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