Aquamarine - The Lovely March Birthstone

For those who were born in the month of March the Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone. The March birthstone poem reflects some of the properties with which the Aquamarine is associated - faithfulness, courage and friendship.

Derived from the Roman word "Aqua," meaning water, and "mare," meaning sea, this pale blue gem does indeed resemble the color of seawater. The association with water led to the belief that the Aquamarine was particularly powerful when immersed. Water in which this gemstone had been submerged was used in ancient times to heal a variety of illnesses of the heart, liver, stomach, mouth and throat. Aquamarines were also used to reverse poisoning and to aid in fortune telling.

A gift of Aquamarine symbolizes both safety and security, especially within long standing relationships. Some people even say that the Aquamarine reawakens love in a tired marriage.

"By her who is this month was born
No gem save Aquamarines shall be worn
they will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity."