Aquamarine~March Birthstone

The modern birthstone for the month of march is Aquamarine.  This stone is a sky blue gem, a member of the beryl family. Making aquamarine siblings with Emeralds, and Morganite and although they belong to the same family they are surprisingly different. Emeralds are usually oiled to fill in fractures and improve their color. Aquamarine, do not require any special treatment  and are suitable for any type of jewelry piece.

From my own personal experience most aquamarine stones have been heat treated at low temperatures to reduce the levels of green or yellow tones and bring out the original blue tones.
Unless when purchasing the gemstone it specifically says unheated stone, please be aware not to use an ultrasonic cleaner for that piece of jewelry. Soap and water will do just fine.

Aquamarine derives its name from the latin term for sea water and has a long tradition for being the sailor's lucky stone. Legend has it the the aquamarine were the prized possessions of mermaids and thus would protect sailors from danger and even warding off sea sickness. This stone can be found faceted, in cabochon and even in its original rough chips cuts. I am currently working on some unique pieces for the spring season, using this beautiful stone. As soon as they are finished I will post pictures of my new creation, until the next post by Ivellisse {owner/ designer}of Modern Gems Artisan Jewelry.