Happy birthday to all our March babies! We love the beautiful aquamarine birthstone, a calming and gentle blue that evokes peace and tranquility. Sometimes called the “sailor’s gem”, this beautiful stone is thought to have protected sailors from harsh seas, according to mythological ideas. Since birthdays between March 1- 20 are Pisces signs, this water-inspired stone feels more than fitting.

A few brief facts to tuck away while shopping for your birthstone piece: Gemologists believe aquamarine is blue in color because of the iron in the crystal. It’s found deep in the earth and the majority of sourcing sites today are in Pakistan and Brazil. Because this gem is plentiful, it’s usually quite affordable, too.

Whether you’re a March baby, love someone who has a birthday in March, or simply love this beautiful bluish-green gem, consider one of these aquamarine birthstone pieces from our favorite ethical and sustainable jewelry brands!


1. Mejuri

Best For | Layered necklaces
Ethics | Recycled precious metals & responsibly sourced stones, responsibly made around the world, gives back via women’s empowerment fund
Price Range | $128–$148

Mejuri‘s aquamarine necklace is one of our favorites for a layered look. Choose from silver or gold vermeil depending on your preferred look. These pieces are beautifully made and classically designed, so they can be worn daily for decades to come. Mejuri also has a two year warranty.


2. GLDN

Best For | Minimalist gems
Ethics | Handmade, 90% recycled materials, donates 10% profits, 85% pieces are made to order
Price Range | $44–$178

We love a birth month-inspired moment and GLDN not only stocks birth flowers and zodiac engravings but also delicate birthstone jewelry (you can also layer them up!). This little gemstone necklace comes with either a silver, gold fill, rose gold fill, or solid gold chain; you can also choose your length for styling preferences. The collection includes bracelets and earrings, too. A fun brand note: GLDN was started in the founder’s kitchen and is committed to handcrafted, sustainable jewelry at affordable price points. This is one of our favorite places to shop for our friends!


3. Maya Brenner

Best For | Birthstone rings
Ethics | Handmade in CA
Price Range | $135–$1,200

Why stick to a single aquamarine stone when you can have 20? Maya Brenner‘s bouquet ring contains 16-20 stones, depending on the size. Each ring is handmade in California with your choice of yellow, white, or rose gold. The LA-based brand also crafts birthstone earrings and necklaces if you prefer single pendant pieces. Fun fact: If you follow celebrity news, Maya Brenner is sort of a big deal. From royalty (Meghan Markle) to celebrities (Mila Kunis), her jewelry pieces are often spotted on the red carpet!

 


4. Aurate

Best For | Small gemstone pieces
Ethics | Recycled precious metals, gives back to three charities, responsibly made & sourced worldwide
Price Range | $130–$290

For some subtle, everyday sparkle, we love Aurate for birthstones. The small studs and delicate chain threads are perfect for people who seldom wear jewelry. Choose from yellow, rose, or white recycled gold for your piece. And rest assured knowing Aurate pieces are handmade using responsibly sourced materials. Plus, your aquamarine piece is backed by a lifetime guarantee!


5. Brilliant Earth

Best For | Statement pieces and engagement rings
Ethics | Recycled precious metals, conflict-free stones, certified CarbonFree, eco-friendly wood packaging
Price Range | $115–$8500+

If you’re really looking to make a statement (like perhaps with an engagement ring!), consider Brilliant Earth for an heirloom-quality aquamarine piece. The brand offers ethical ready-to-wear showstoppers as well as loose stones to purchase for your own unique design, and we love the stunning stones for a unique engagement band or anniversary piece. Brilliant Earth offers free shipping, 30-day returns, and a lifetime warranty.

 


Featured image by Mejuri