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In professional sports, few accolades rival the prestige and symbolism of Super Bowl rings. These glittering symbols of victory represent the pinnacle of achievement for football players, dripping with diamonds […]
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Firstly, aquamarine represents the birthstone for the month of March. Secondly, Aqua birthstones are the blue variety of the gemstone Beryl. And thirdly, translated, Aquamarine means “Sea water,” a gem associated with the ocean.
However, some confusion arises between modern birthstones and the traditional birthstone system. In addition, differences occur between regions such as the United States and the UK. Most importantly, we work with traditional birthstones based on gemstones associated with Zodiac signs. Sources, including the American Gem Society, publish regional information worth referring to.
Contact us with your birth month for expert guidance on the most suitable birthstone.
Contrary to some sources, Aquamarine is not one of the December birthstones.
Many people associate the blue of Aquamarine with water. Besides its connection as the March birthstone. Additionally, aquamarine makes a significant gemstone associated with a 19th wedding Anniversary.
Twist engagement ring set with an Aquamarine.
Collectors prized this Aquamarine crystal since ancient times. In addition, it makes an affordable and fascinating choice for any item of Aquamarine jewellery.
Aquamarine, with its name rooted in the Latin words “aqua” meaning ‘water’ and “marina” meaning ‘of the sea,’ holds a profound historical and cultural significance. This captivating gemstone transcends time, finding its place in the annals of ancient civilizations. From the Egyptians fashioning protective amulets to the Romans venerating it as sacred to Neptune, the God of the sea, Aquamarine’s allure permeated through the ages.
In the Middle Ages, Greeks, and Romans, Aqua gemstones were considered not just ornamental but sacred, symbolizing a connection to the divine powers governing the oceans. As Aquamarine graced the jewellery of medieval societies, it became more than a gemstone; it became a symbol of purity, fidelity, and the calming influence of the sea.
Today, the legacy endures, and Aquamarine stands as a testament to its enduring history, weaving a narrative of reverence and mysticism across civilizations.
Valuable examples originate from Brazil. Other locations include Australia, Kenya and Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Russia.
This beautiful gemstone choice pairs well with other gems including blue, purple, transparent, white and green colours. The following chart compares a few popular gems suitably paired with Aqua. At the same time, the chart considers the hardness and durability based on the Mohs scale of hardness.
| Gemstone | Color | Mohs Scale (Durability) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aquamarine | Blue, Blue-Green | 7.5-8 | Aquamarine, with its serene hues, ranges from light blue to dark greenish-blue, symbolizing purity and calmness. |
| Emerald | Green | 7.5-8 | Emerald, known for its rich green color, signifies rebirth and renewal, often associated with luxury and royalty. |
| Sapphire | Blue | 9 | Sapphire, available in various colors, is prized for its durability and beauty, representing wisdom and nobility. |
| Diamond | Colorless | 10 | Diamond, the hardest gemstone, symbolizes eternal love and brilliance, making it the ultimate symbol of commitment. |
| Amethyst | Purple | 7 | Amethyst, a purple gemstone, is associated with calmness and spirituality, often considered a protective stone. |
| Topaz | Various Colors | 8 | Topaz, available in multiple colors, is known for its vibrancy and can symbolize love and affection. |
| Peridot | Olive Green | 6.5-7 | Peridot, with its olive-green hues, represents warmth and vitality, believed to bring good fortune and healing. |
| Tourmaline | Various Colors | 7-7.5 | Tourmaline, found in various colors, is considered a versatile gemstone with a strong grounding and protective energy. |
Sailors believed Aquamarine gemstones had a calming effect on the ocean. When confronted with the dangers of the sea, many sailors welcomed any good-luck symbol available. This beautiful gemstone carries with it luck and good fortune for many sea travellers for this reason.
Aquamarine symbolises youth and the spirit of hope. Many people associate this beautiful gem with healing properties, faithfulness and lasting love.
Moreover, many people carry this crystalline gemstone to cure ailments and promote good health. For example, healing conditions of the liver, jaws, throat, stomach, and toothaches.
This incredible gemstone brought happiness to a marriage. Aquamarine’s connection between love and Romance makes this gemstone an ideal choice for jewellery.
Aquamarine evokes purity connected with crystal-clear waters and the feeling of relaxation associated with the sea. It is said to calm, soothe and cleanse— to inspire truth and trust and promote clarity of thought.
Loose Emerald-cut Aquamarines photographed for client.
Aquamarines vary in colour. Many blue colours exist depending on the hue and tone of the gemstone.
Variations range from light blue to dark blue or even dark green colour with overtones of blue. Most gemstones exhibit a blue to blue-green colour.
“The best gems combine high clarity with limpid transparency and blue to slightly greenish blue hues.” (GIA).
In conclusion, the most valuable Aqua possesses a medium tone, vivid and blue in hue.
9-carat Aquamarine ready to be set into a bespoke solitaire diamond ring setting.
Santa Maria Aquamarines feature the highest intensity of colour. Rich in blue colour, originating from Brazil. A genuine Santa Maria Aqua has a colour nearing the depth of Blue Topaz.
Many buyers value this unusual gemstone in naturally occurring deep blue colours.
Also, Santa Maria varieties typically fetch higher prices owing to their rarity and prized colour.
Paler blue varieties are generally more affordable than equivalent stones of a deeper colour. For example, light blue shades come from Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan and Mozambique. Owing to large crystal formations, typical for Beryl crystals, it is possible to source Aquamarines in large gemstone sizes.
Aqua and diamond engagement ring featured in our ready-to-wear collection.
For anyone born in March, there is a fantastic opportunity to create a unique and affordable item of jewellery. The birthstone for March comes in most sizes, gemstone cuts and a variety of hues. Regularly, we create individual pieces of jewellery as part of our customised jewellery design service
In addition to many colour variations in natural aquamarines. Aquas exist without an absence of colour. Bright white gemstones exist and make cheaper alternatives to a diamond.
For this reason, some favour aquamarines that have received heat treatment to achieve a particular shade. Although our Aquas are supplied as natural gemstones, treated gemstones can be available on request.
9-carat Aquamarine set into an 18ct White Gold setting. Bespoke design from our bespoke collection of jewellery.
Aquamarine perfectly suits special occasions celebrated in March. Birthdays, anniversaries and Mother’s Day to name just a few. Many buyers favour Aquamarine owing to its cost.
Compared to diamonds, this gemstone is far more affordable in large sizes. Furthermore, it is possible to source diamond-cut varieties of this gemstone.
For most buyers, the most affordable option provides a pale blue gemstone cut in an assortment of shapes.
Bespoke Aquamarine Platinum ring
For instance, the sizeable Emerald-cut gemstone ring above went into a bespoke solitaire ring commission. Our client received a wide choice of different sizes. We presented several options to view during a showroom appointment in Ryde.
Other clients living further afield benefit from our photographic service. We regularly send colour-balanced photos of gemstones in addition to short video clips.
Working remotely, we guide, inform and arrange new jewellery by phone and email using photography as an ideal tool.
A client approached us and specifically requested a bespoke engagement ring set with a central Aqua in a particular shade. From conversions with our client, we sourced three stones in different hues of blue and quality.
Our client benefitted from photography and a video of the gemstone. Above all, I am confident in the selection of an 8mm sky-blue stone weighing 1.54 carats.
Aquamarines possess a ‘good’ toughness for jewellery in general. In addition, this popular gemstone suits rings, earrings and pendants.
Like many gemstones, this gemstone can chip. But, consider the hardest gem diamond. Even diamond chips and breaks with sufficient force.
One of our unique pendants perfectly fits one of the most popular wedding day traditions. The concept of finding something blue makes it a perfect choice added to a necklace for the big day. (Read more about the Something-Blue pendant).
The ‘Something Blue’ aquamarine and diamond pendant is engraved on the reverse of the necklace.
Diamonds make a great choice to set with an Aquamarine. We choose the whitest possible colour grade for each stone to contrast with the cool blue of the gemstone. For example, D to F colour diamonds provide a perfect whiteness grade.
Ready-made Aquamarine and diamond halo engagement ring in Platinum.
Similarly, we set Aquamarines with diamonds in White Gold or Platinum. Aquamarine and diamond engagement rings often feature round or fancy-shaped stones held between diamond shoulders. At the same time, it makes an excellent choice for a halo diamond engagement ring. This gemstone looks very similar to the colour of a high-quality ice-blue diamond.
Three-stone Aquamarine and diamond rings make a popular choice for engagement. For example, two bright, white diamonds add contrast on either side of the cool blue colour. In addition, the larger centre stone provides a less expensive alternative to a diamond.
3-stone Aquamarine and diamond ring crafted by bespoke design.
Bloodstone is very different when it comes to appearance. However, it shares a similar reputation for protecting well-being.
The aquamarine birthstone evokes the colours of the sea. Colours vary from deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish and blue hues. In fact, faceted aquamarines are often transparent, without inclusions and as clear as water. Symbolising the purity of spirit and soul.
In conclusion, the bloodstone birthstone is typically a dark-green cabochon that contains red spots of iron oxide. The “blood” that brings health and strength to the wearer. Read on to learn more about these two March birthstones – what they mean and where they can be found.
The post Aquamarine – The March Birthstone Guide to Jewellery appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.
Simply, put, the answer is YES. 2024 is a leap year and a woman can propose to a man.
A leap year embraces the time when calendars add an extra day, hearts beat a little faster, and love takes a bolder leap. And guess what, lovebirds? 2024 is a leap year! Yes, that’s right, February this year boasts an extra 29th day, making it the perfect canvas for an unforgettable proposal steeped in tradition and romance.
According to NASA It takes approximately 365.25 days for the Earth to orbit the Sun. This is referred to as a solar year. We round the days in a calendar year to 365. To make up for the missing partial day, we add one day to our calendar every four years. This is a leap year.
But wait, you might be wondering – doesn’t the leap year proposal tradition happen on February 29th?
While the exact origins are hazy, whispers of the leap-year proposal tradition originate from Ireland. Legend recounts a story of St. Brigid, a fiery nun, who petitioned St. Patrick for women to take the reins on February 29th every four years.
Touched by her plea, Patrick declared that leap years offered ladies the chance to pop the question. As such, the spirit of women boldly taking the leap lives on, ready to inspire proposals in 2024 and beyond.
And what an array of possibilities 366 days offer! Imagine two lovers strolling through London’s vibrant Bloomsbury on a crisp February morning, or whispering sweet nothings beneath the starlit skies of Northumberland. Every love story, every couple, deserves their own leap of faith, their own unforgettable “yes.”
For visitors to the Isle of Wight, some couples take advantage of expansive beach settings or the heights of the picturesque downs for their special moment.
Keep in mind that tradition isn’t confined to men and women. In 2024, all love stories deserve a grand gesture, regardless of who takes the knee. Imagine two souls exchanging vows with the ancient stones of Stonehenge as witnesses, or sharing a romantic picnic overlooking the majestic cliffs of Cornwall. Every kind of love, every kind of couple, deserves their leap of faith, their own breathtaking “I do.”
However, there’s no historical evidence to support this legend, and the practice of leap-year proposals likely emerged much later. While some countries, like Scotland, once had laws allowing women to propose on February 29th, these laws were eventually repealed.
So, can a woman propose on just one day of a leap year? Technically, no. There’s no legal or societal obligation for women to wait for a specific day to propose.
However, the leap year tradition remains a fun and whimsical way for women to take charge and express their love. If you’re thinking about proposing to your partner, February 29th, in a leap year, can be a special and memorable occasion. But remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one day. Any day can be the perfect day to declare your love and ask for your partner’s hand in marriage.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering a leap-year proposal:
Ultimately, the most important thing is that your proposal is sincere and heartfelt. Whether you choose to propose on February 29th or any other day, the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy and committed to each other.
Now, for those who yearn for a touch of tradition, why not plan a whimsical escapade for February 29th, 2024? A secret proposal amidst the hushed beauty of Windsor Castle, a dazzling hot air balloon ride over Bath’s Georgian streets, or a candlelit dinner overlooking the shimmering Thames – the possibilities dance as vibrantly as your love.
And at Serendipity Diamonds, we believe every proposal deserves a ring that shimmers with the brilliance of your commitment. Browse our exquisite collection online, where our diamond engagement rings capture the fire of romance in every cut and setting.
Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a solitaire or the playful twinkle of a halo, our expert gemmologists are here to guide you. Or, for a truly personal touch, visit our London showroom, where we offer private appointments in the intimate mezzanine section. Breathe in the air of love as you discover the perfect ring, a symbol of your unwavering devotion.
And if you’re dreaming of a proposal that echoes both tradition and escape, consider the breathtaking Isle of Wight. Imagine, if you will, whispering your love against the backdrop of the Needles rocks, exchanging rings amidst the fragrant lavender fields, or popping the question on a secluded beach as the sun dips into the English Channel. The Isle of Wight, a microcosm of British charm, provides an idyllic backdrop for your leap of faith.
So, dear love-struck adventurers, whether you choose to embrace the spirit of the leap year proposal on February 29th or create your own unforgettable moment in 2024, remember – love always finds its way. And, when it comes to choosing the perfect ring to seal your destiny, Serendipity Diamonds awaits, ready to help you write your own chapter in the grand novel of romance.
Let your love leap, let your story begin.
The post Is 2024 a Leap Year? Can a Woman Propose this Year? appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.
If you’re uncertain about the significance of the number 750 in your gold ring, this blog post will certainly help unravel any mystery.
Most pieces of jewellery in the UK feature a “Hallmark.” A hallmark consists of markings to denote the purity of the precious metal. Typically, such markings include symbols and numbers to identify where the item was hallmarked and the content of the metal.
The 750 stamp on the inside of any ring usually indicates 750 parts of pure Gold, per 1000 parts. In other words, the item is 75% pure Gold. This purity is more commonly referred to as 18-carat gold.
But why is 75% pure Gold referred to as 18-carat Gold? 18-carat gold is called so because it represents the proportion of pure gold in the alloy based on a scale of 24 parts. In this context, the term “carat” originates from the ancient practice of using carob seeds as counterweights on balance scales. 24 carats signify pure gold, so 18-carat gold contains 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts other metals, such as copper or silver. This ratio of 18/24, or 75%, strikes a balance between durability and the distinctive lustre of gold, making it a popular choice for crafting jewellery and luxury items.
| Gold Purity | Stamp Symbol | Fineness (in divisions of 24 parts) |
|---|---|---|
| 9 Karat | 375 | 9/24 (37.5%) |
| 14 Karat | 585 | 14/24 (58.5%) |
| 18 Karat | 750 | 18/24 (75%) |
| 22 Karat | 916 | 22/24 (91.6%) |
| 24 Karat | 999 | 24/24 (99.9%) |
The yellow colour of 18-carat gold stands out as a harmonious blend of pure gold’s radiant warmth and the alloy metals, typically copper and silver, that are added to enhance durability. Compared to 24-carat gold, which is the purest form with no alloy, 18-carat gold appears slightly less intense in its yellow hue. The higher gold content in 18-carat gold, when contrasted with 9-carat gold, imparts a richer and more pronounced yellow tone. On the other hand, in comparison to 14-carat gold, 18-carat gold tends to exhibit a subtler and more refined yellow colour, as the latter contains a higher percentage of pure gold. The choice between these gold purities ultimately depends on personal preferences for colour intensity and the desired balance between purity and durability in jewellery design. On the far end of the scale 22-carat gold (see our post on 916 stamped gold) and pure 24-carat gold offer buyers a darker, richer gold colour popular for Indian jewellery.
All Gold with the 750 stamp includes 25% “other metals” to provide benefits to the finished jewellery item.
In the following chart, a typical breakdown of the content in 18-carat gold reveals the addition of both Copper (15%) and Silver (10%) typical for jewellery in the UK.
| Alloy Component | Percentage in Alloy |
|---|---|
| Gold (Au) | 75% |
| Copper (Cu) | 15% |
| Silver (Ag) | 10% |
A 750 stamp can appear on all gold colours including white gold, rose gold and yellow gold. As we have discussed in more detail elsewhere, white gold includes other metals such as silver and a hard, white, Rhodium plating to whiten finished items. However, its purity or fineness remains 750 parts per 1000 and includes the 750 stamp in the same way as yellow, or rose gold varieties.
The post What is the Significance of a 750 Stamp Inside Your Gold Ring? appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.
Rounds and Cushions are old diamond cuts. However, the brilliant faceting patterns that are popular today were not the original way these diamond shapes were cut. Originally known as Old European Cuts and Old Mine Cuts, the evolution of these two antique cuts is quite similar.
Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Have you decided to surprise your loved one with a thoughtful gift? Or, are you still looking for a unique gift you can give to your Valentine? No worries, Lauren B is here to help you choose the best Valentine’s Day gift!
When looking at diamonds, the top things buyers look at are the Four C’s: Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat—but where did these grading statistics come from? There are several grading institutes across the world, but only one can be the best: the Gemological Institute of America, or GIA for short.
Our 2024 Trend Predictions have arrived! One-of-a-kind cuts, designs with unique accents, yellow diamonds & three-stone rings are at the top of our list. Whether you are already engaged or waiting for your special someone to pop the question, would you want one of these trending styles?
In the Fall of 2023, we set out with a plan to create a collection of 10 new engagement rings with the intention of filming the process from start to finish. Our video team spent hours with our master craftsmen each day filming each part of the ring creation process for each design. What ended up being our most successful, and now viral, reel was just a few seconds of several weeks worth of work.