The Origin of Aquamarine
Aquamarine is truly a breathtaking gemstone. It has an interesting history and even more interesting lore behind it. Aquamarine is the Latin word for “seawater”, which directly correlates to how the stone was used as well as its origin. It was named “the sailor’s gem” because long ago, Greek sailors would bring the stone on board while they were at sea. They believed it would appease Poseidon, the sea god, and in turn would calm any rough waters and keep them safe during their journeys. Besides the ancient Greeks utilizing Aquamarine, ancient Egyptians wore them as amulets and would place them in pharaohs’ tombs to help them pass safely into the afterlife. The tombs would be put on boats and would pass through the underworld. With all of the history and lore behind Aquamarine, it really is a stone of safety, renewal, and calmness!
Appearance and Composition of Aquamarine
The birthstone for March is Aquamarine, and March is mostly ruled by the water sign Pisces, so water comes into play a lot with this stone. It is a type of Beryl, and its watery blue-green color comes from the presence of iron. Green Aquamarine was more popular back in the 1800s but today blue hues are more sought after. Sky-blue colored stones are considered the most valuable, and colorless to pale blue stones are the least expensive variations. An interesting thing about Aquamarine is that, similar to Iolite and Emerald, its color can change depending on what angle you look at it from. This is called pleochroism. Because it is a beryl, Aquamarine is naturally a very hard stone, making it perfect and durable for jewelry. It is mostly found in Brazil and all over the United States.
Metaphysical Properties and Uses of Aquamarine
Among its many metaphysical properties, Aquamarine is revered as a stone of happiness and hope. Today it is still used as a protection stone for travelers of the sea, and it is often gifted to sailors. Aside from its watery benefits, it is popular among struggling couples, as it can calm arguments and help people work through major differences. This stone is often used as anniversary gifts and it is associated with the 19th wedding anniversary. Aquamarine is very commonly used as a tool to help foster balance, organization, and harmony in one’s life. People also use it to bring good luck.
How to Care for Aquamarine
When wearing Aquamarine in jewelry or owning it as a specimen, it is very important to properly care for it. It rates a 7.5-8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale but it is still prone to breaking or chipping because of the natural inclusions in the stone. Breaking is more common when the stone is exposed to the elements for a prolonged period of time. Aquamarine’s color will fade if left out in the sun for too long. You should not use heat to clean or treat the stone.