Aquamarine is a sea-blue gemstone from the beryl family and the birthstone for March. People choose it for its calm, ocean-like colour and because it is tough enough for everyday jewellery.
This guide covers the traditional aquamarine stone benefits, its meaning, colours, prices, who wears it and how to care for it. You can see real stones in our aquamarine collection.
What is aquamarine stone?
"Water of the sea". The name comes from two Latin words: aqua (water) and marina (the sea). The colours run from pale sky blue to deep ocean blue-green.
A member of the beryl family. Aquamarine is a sister stone to emerald and morganite. Traces of iron in the crystal give it its blue colour. The deeper the blue, the more valuable the stone.
Hard and glassy. It sits at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale and has a bright, clear shine like glass. That makes it a good choice for rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings, cut in many shapes.
Quick fact: aquamarine was once known as the "sailor's gem". Sailors carried it as a protective charm, believing it would keep them safe at sea and calm rough waters.
How does aquamarine form?
It takes millions of years. Aquamarine grows inside a rock called pegmatite. Pegmatites form when magma (molten rock) cools very slowly deep underground.
The right mix of elements. As the magma cools, mineral-rich fluids start to crystallise. When beryllium, aluminium, silicon, oxygen and iron meet in these pockets, aquamarine crystals slowly begin to grow.
Big, clear crystals. Because the process is so slow, pegmatites can produce very large, clear aquamarine crystals. The largest ever found weighed over 110 kilograms. It was discovered in Brazil in 1910 and later cut into thousands of gemstones.
Where does aquamarine come from?
Over millions of years, earth movements, erosion and volcanic activity bring the crystals closer to the surface. Miners then dig them out, and the stones are cut and polished for jewellery.
- Brazil: the leading producer and the source of some of the finest stones.
- Other sources: Madagascar, Nigeria, Zambia, Pakistan, Russia, India and the United States.
Aquamarine: the March birthstone
Aquamarine is one of the official birthstones for March. If you or someone you love was born in March, it is traditionally your personal gemstone. Bloodstone is the other March stone, which we cover in our bloodstone birthstone guide.
What is a birthstone?
A birthstone is a gemstone linked to a birth month. By tradition, it is said to bring good energy, strength and protection to people born in that month.
| Month | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl and alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal and tourmaline |
| November | Topaz and citrine |
| December | Turquoise, zircon and tanzanite |
Why is aquamarine the birthstone for March?
- It looks like the sea: the soft blue-green colour reminds people of the ocean and the sky.
- A symbol of new beginnings: March is the start of spring, and the stone is linked with fresh starts.
- A calm stone: it has long been seen as a stone of peace.
- A lucky stone: many people believe it brings happiness and good fortune to March babies.
Why aquamarine is special for March babies
In birthstone tradition, wearing the stone of your own month is said to bring stronger protection, clarity and good fortune than it would for someone born in another month.
Many people also see a match between the stone and March-born people: calm like the sea, fond of travel like the sailors who carried it, and tough like the gem itself.
Aquamarine and zodiac signs
In astrology, aquamarine is most closely linked with Pisces (19 February to 20 March). It is also said to suit Aries and Gemini. For a sign-by-sign look, read aquamarine and astrology.
Aquamarine stone benefits (traditional beliefs)
The benefits below come from traditional beliefs, cultural practice and folklore. They are not scientifically proven.
Good fortune and money matters
Aquamarine has long been seen as a stone of prosperity, said to attract opportunities and good luck. Many people in business keep it close as a daily reminder to stay focused on their goals.
It is also linked with steady finances: wise money decisions, less impulsive spending and a calm, orderly approach to money.
Positive thinking and a clear mind
In crystal traditions, aquamarine is linked with a clear, uncluttered mind. Wearers use it as a reminder to let go of negative self-talk and keep a positive outlook.
Confidence and communication
Aquamarine is closely tied to the throat chakra, the energy centre linked with speaking and self-expression. That makes it a popular choice for shy people and anyone who wants to speak clearly and with confidence.
Calm and peace of mind
More than anything, aquamarine is known as the stone of calm. Just as people find the sea soothing to look at, many wear aquamarine as a reminder to stay calm and peaceful in busy times.
Protection from negative energy and the evil eye
Across many cultures, aquamarine has been used as a protective stone. It is said to shield the wearer from negative energy and harmful intentions, so it is a popular charm for both adults and children.
It is also a traditional travel stone, carried to keep travellers safe on long journeys, especially by sea.
Aquamarine and love
Aquamarine is seen as a stone of love and happiness. It is often given between partners and is linked with trust, understanding and peace in relationships.
Many couples exchange aquamarine jewellery as a symbol of love and commitment.
Spiritual growth
Aquamarine is considered a deeply spiritual stone. People who use it in meditation describe stronger intuition, more compassion for others and a clearer link to their inner guidance.
The spiritual meaning of aquamarine
Truth, courage and purity. Spiritually, aquamarine stands for these three. It is believed to balance the throat chakra, helping people speak the truth with kindness, and to open the third-eye chakra, linked with intuition.
The water element. In spiritual traditions, aquamarine is tied to water. It symbolises flow, adaptability and moving through life's challenges with grace, just as water finds the easiest path forward.
A stone for life changes. People going through big changes often choose it as a companion stone. Its gentle meaning is linked with acceptance, empathy, less arrogance and moving forward.
History and legends of aquamarine
People have loved aquamarine for thousands of years. Here are the best-known stories.
- Sailors' lucky stone: sailors carried it, believing it would protect them from storms and help them find their way home.
- The mermaid's stone: an old legend says mermaids gave aquamarine to sailors to keep them safe, so some people call it "the mermaid's stone".
- Ancient Greeks: believed it protected sailors from storms.
- Ancient Romans: linked it with happiness and gave it to couples as a symbol of a happy marriage.
- Egyptians: used it for good luck and protection.
- The Middle Ages: it was seen as a stone of strength.
- Royal jewellery: kings and queens wore aquamarine in crowns, necklaces and rings.
Famous aquamarines
- The Brazilian Aquamarine: a huge, bright blue stone given to Queen Elizabeth II.
- The Dom Pedro Aquamarine: the biggest cut aquamarine in the world, found in Brazil.
- The Roosevelt Aquamarine: given to Eleanor Roosevelt as a symbol of friendship.
Aquamarine colours: which is the most valuable?
Aquamarine always stays in the blue family, but the shade makes a big difference to value.
| Colour | Description | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Light blue | Pale, ice-blue tones | Entry level, widely available |
| Sky blue | Clear medium blue | Mid-range, popular in jewellery |
| Blue-green | Ocean teal | Popular, slightly premium |
| Deep rich blue | Intense, saturated blue | Most valuable, rare |
Santa Maria aquamarine is the most prized of all. Named after a mine in Brazil, it has an intense deep blue that commands premium prices worldwide.
Aquamarine stone price: what to expect
Aquamarine suits a wide range of budgets. These are typical prices per carat:
| Grade | Price per carat | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard light blue | $50 – $150 | Casual jewellery and first-time buyers |
| Mid-grade blue or blue-green | $150 – $300 | Fine jewellery |
| High-quality deep blue | $300 – $600 | Premium jewellery |
| Top-grade Santa Maria deep blue | $500 – $1,000+ | Serious collectors |
Four things set the price: colour strength, clarity, cut quality and carat weight. A deeper blue and a larger size push the price up sharply.
Who should wear aquamarine stone?
Aquamarine is seen as a gentle, welcoming stone that suits most people. It is most often suggested for:
- People born in March, as their birthstone
- Pisces, Aries and Gemini in astrology
- Anyone drawn to its calm, peaceful symbolism
- People who want to speak with more confidence, for example in public speaking
- Those working towards money or career goals
- People who meditate or follow a spiritual practice
- Anyone going through a big life change
- People who love the sea and the beach
It is not only for March babies. Many people born in other months wear it simply because they love the colour.
Who should not wear aquamarine?
Some astrological traditions say aquamarine is less suitable for Scorpio, as its energy is thought to clash with Scorpio's intense nature. This is not a universal rule and varies from person to person.
Are there any side effects of wearing aquamarine?
These points come from traditional beliefs only and are not scientifically verified.
- Too much energy: some sensitive wearers say its energy feels too strong when worn all the time, especially if they are already very energetic.
- Too much drive: because it is linked with ambition, some people feel it pushes a driven mindset so far that they find it hard to switch off.
- A dirty stone: a dusty or damaged stone is traditionally believed to give weaker benefits, so keep it clean.
Many crystal lovers suggest short breaks from wearing any stone, such as taking it off at night, so both stone and wearer can reset.
How to wear aquamarine
Aquamarine is strong, elegant and good for everyday wear, and its soft blue goes with almost any outfit.
- Ring: the middle or index finger of the right hand is the traditional choice.
- Pendant or necklace: keeps the stone near the throat chakra, linked with communication.
- Bracelet: traditionally worn on the left wrist for its calming, protective meaning.
- Earrings: linked with confidence and strength.
- In meditation: hold it in both hands or place it at your throat.
- At home or in a pocket: some people keep a stone at home for a peaceful space, or carry one for good luck.
- As a gift: a popular way to show love and friendship.
How to care for aquamarine
- Clean gently: use lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth, then wipe dry.
- No machines or harsh chemicals: avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning.
- Store it alone: keep it apart from harder stones, such as diamonds, that can scratch it.
- Limit sun and heat: long exposure to direct sunlight or strong heat can fade the colour.
- Take it off for hard work: remove it before swimming, sport or heavy manual work.
For more detail, see how to take care of your aquamarine jewellery.
How to tell if your aquamarine is real
- Colour: real aquamarine has an even, cool-toned blue. A very vivid, perfect colour at a low price may point to glass or a synthetic.
- Hardness: at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, it scratches glass easily but cannot be scratched by a steel knife.
- Temperature: real aquamarine feels cool to the touch at first. Glass copies warm up quickly.
- Inclusions: natural stones often have small inclusions. A completely flawless stone at a very low price may be synthetic.
- Certificate: buy from a trusted seller who gives a report from a recognised lab such as GIA, IGI or AGS.
FAQs
Is aquamarine only for people born in March?
No. It is the March birthstone, but anyone can wear it. Many people choose it simply for its colour or its calm symbolism.
Is aquamarine an expensive stone?
It covers a wide range, from around $50 per carat for light stones to over $1,000 per carat for top deep blue. Compared with many precious gemstones, it is fairly affordable.
Can aquamarine be worn every day?
Yes. Its hardness makes it durable for daily wear. Avoid harsh chemicals, take it off for heavy activity and clean it regularly.
What is the difference between aquamarine and blue topaz?
Both are blue gemstones, but they are different minerals. Blue topaz is usually cheaper, while fine aquamarine, especially deep Santa Maria blue, costs much more. Read more in aquamarine vs blue topaz.
Does aquamarine fade over time?
It can fade slightly with long exposure to direct sunlight or strong heat. Store it away from direct light when you are not wearing it.
Gemstone traditions are cultural beliefs, not medical advice. See our gemstone and healing disclaimer.