Meet the “mermaid stone”

As we see signs of Spring upon us it is time to welcome the birthstone for March, aquamarine. With its pretty pale blue and subtle shine discover all you need to know about this semi-precious gemstone which is so closely linked to the seas.

A stone for clarity and protection, the history runs deep on this gorgeous stone. 

Aquamarine and Gold Vermeil Gemstone Hoop Earrings, £127. Click here to shop

♢ With a name meaning “water of the sea”, this gemstone was used as a talisman of good luck and protection on the water. Roman writer Pliny the Elder first wrote about aquamarine that it must have come from some “mermaid’s treasure house” while the Ancient Greeks believed  they were the jewels of sirens luring men to the sea.

♢ In Buddhist tradition the gemstone took on another association, linking it with love. Meaning that in India the custom grew of gifting aquamarine jewellery as wedding gifts. It is still often given as a love token or eternity ring today,  with the belief it increases commitment and fidelity.

 Gold Vermeil and Aquamarine Gemstone Drop Necklace, £97. Click here to shop

♢ It was even seen as a stone that could ward off poison. During the Middle Ages in Europe, its reputation for purity and detoxification was strong. Because of a belief it could purify any liquid it was placed into, Kings and Queens desired it due to their fear of being poised by a rival.

 Aquamarine and Recycled Silver Eternity Necklace, £97. Click here to shop

♢ Royalty has had a better use for the stone in modern times. One of the Queen’s largest tiaras The Brazilian Aquamarine Parure Tiara began after a gift of aquamarine earrings and a necklace from the Brazilian president as a Coronation gift. The tiara was then commissioned to match.

♢ More recently Meghan Markle wore Princess Diana’s aquamarine cocktail ring, as a gift from Prince Harry. She wore it to the evening reception of their wedding. Featuring a large emerald-cut, pale blue aquamarine, the stone is estimated at over 30 carats and surrounded by smaller diamonds.

Discover my collection of aquamarine jewellery inspired by nature, made from premium gold vermeil and recycled silver and ready to gift loved ones, or yourself. Take it on all your travels.