March's Birthstone: Astonishing Aquamarine

Scientific Information - Aquamarine is a sub-gemstone of the mineral Beryl. Aquamarine forms in magma as the magma cools. Beryl comes in many different colors, however, when there is iron present as the magma cools, the mineral takes on a blue-green color becoming Aquamarine.

Discovered by Man - The first documented discovery of aquamarine took place in 1723 in the Adun-Chalon mountains in Siberia. Deposits found at this site were rather abundant and it quickly became the primary site for mining it. The peak of production took place in 1796. Aquamarine is most often found in Russia, Brazil, the United States, Africa, Pakistan, and Siberia.

Legend and Lore - Many believe the soft and sometimes electrifying color of aquamarine is reminiscent of the ocean. The ancient Greeks thought that aquamarine could protect sailors from the unpredictable seas. March’s birthstone was also thought to enhance the happiness of marriages.