Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is often referred to as The Gem of the Sea. As its name implies, this member of the beryl family is found in colors that mimic the earth’s waters: from light blue to aqua to deep blue-green.
Aquamarine jewelry set in platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold has been popular among collectors and gemstone connoisseurs throughout all eras of jewelry design, including the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Retro and Modern periods.
Here are just a few examples of highly collectible aquamarine jewelry. All these vintage pieces — and many more — are currently available to collectors (and March birthstone fans) on www.1stdibs.com.
Stunning Georgian Aquamarine Gold Brooch & Earrings Suite: Circa 1860
Made in England, the Georgian Suite includes a brooch and earrings with aquamarine stones set in 18K yellow gold. According to the 1stdibs catalog notes, “Pale gemstones such as topaz, almondine garnets and aquamarines were popular for jewelry worn in the evenings when the only light was from the dim glow of candles.” Earrings measure 1 1/2″ long and 5/8″ wide. Pin measures 2 3/4″ long by 2″ wide. Offered by The Spare Room, $6,370.
Art Deco Aquamarine Diamond Ring
This 18K gold ring from the 1930s features a sparkling cool blue aquamarine (2.73 carats) flanked by two platinum panels vertically set with six cushion-shaped diamonds. The shoulders of the ring are embellished with six bezel-set round diamonds. Marked with the French owl mark for imported gold jewelry, it is offered by Romanov Russia for $4,700.
Retro Era Aquamarine and Ruby Gold Flower Brooch
A wonderful example of the 1940s brooches so popular again today, the 14K gold flower pin is set with aquamarines and rubies. The brooch measures 45mm x 55mm, and weighs 22.3 grams. Offered by Oak Gem for $1,950.
Mid-Century Aquamarine Sputnik Brooch
This quirky aquamarine brooch from the 1060s is designed in a domed Sputnik style, a nod to the Soviet Union’s satellite of 1957. It features bezel-set faceted aquamarines set in 18K rose gold. 1.1″ diameter X 0.7″ height. Offered by Betteridge Off Avenue, $750.
Estate Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant Earrings, 1960s
Aquamarine and diamond, the birthstones for March and April respectively, look beautiful together. These articulated earrings feature a pair of teardrop-shaped aquamarines (3.00 carats) plus two marquise-shaped and four round brilliant-cut diamonds (0.40 carats), mounted in 18K white gold. Approximately 1 1/4″ long overall. Offered by Jacob’s, $1,900.
All photos courtesy of 1stDibs.
Can’t get enough aquamarine? Here are a few more articles about this popular March birthstone:
Click here to learn more about how to clean your aquamarine jewelry >>.
