Stone of March: Aquamarine

Origine and varieties of Aquamarines:

The birthstone for the month of March is a gemstone from the Beryl family - which also includes emeralds.  Its name comes form the Latin "aqua marina" meaning 'water of the sea'. Its colour reminds us of the ocean with varieties going from clear, through light to dark blue to sea green. Unlike other gems where the darker hues are the most sought after, light, clear Aquamarines are the most popular and the most valuable.

Information, virtues and legends surrounding Aquamarines:

The most important deposits of Aquamarine are found in Brasil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

In the old days, it was a talisman for sea-faring folk and was supposed to protect them when at sea and from Poseidon's wrath!

Rated 7.8 on the Mohs hardness scale, aquamarines are popular gemstones for jewellers. Large Aquamarines are often used in the 'emerald cut' (a rectangle with cut edges) allowing the elongated crystal structure of the stones to maintain their strength.

A symbol of faithfulness for newly weds, Aquamarines are often used for engagement rings. It is also a traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary.

At her wedding to Prince Harry, Meghan Markle showed up to the reception wearing a cocktail ring adorned with a towering Aquamarine. Asprey, the ring's designer, confirmed that it was made for Princess Diana in 1997 and that the Duke gave it to his wife as a wedding gift.

Lady Diana - Getty Images

The largest cut Aquamarine ('Dom Pedro') is part of the permanent collection at the Natural History Museum in Washington next to 'Hope' the famous blue diamond from the crown of France. Cut in the shape of an obelisk by the famous German jeweller Bernd Munsteiner, it weighs 2 kg and is 45cm long.

Which metals should you use to set Aquamarines?

With its soft, pastel colour, Aquamarine, the birthstone of March, goes very well with gold but also with white metals: silver, white gold or platinum. Rose gold can also enhance it.

Caring for your Aquamarine jewellery

For the care and cleaning of your aquamarine jewellery, we recommend

• Hagerty® Fine Stones Clean, specially designed for fine stones available in pot or polishing cloth.