The name aquamarine derives from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), meaning “water of the sea.” This name reflects its clear blue-green colour, reminiscent of the ocean. Throughout history, aquamarine has been known as the Sailor’s Stone, due to its association with protection at sea. In ancient texts, it was sometimes referred to as beryl, the mineral family to which it belongs.
Composition, Physical Characteristics, and Varieties
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, composed of beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈). It owes its blue-green hues to traces of iron. Aquamarine typically forms in hexagonal crystals and ranks 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale. The finest specimens display a deep oceanic blue, while paler varieties exhibit a more translucent, pastel hue. Heat treatment can enhance its colour, making it more vibrant.
Geographical Locations Where It Is Found
Significant aquamarine deposits exist in Brazil, particularly in Minas Gerais. Other sources include Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Madagascar, Russia, and the United States (notably in Colorado). Some of the highest-quality aquamarines come from the Karakorum Mountains in Pakistan and the Urals in Russia.
Archaeological and Significant Finds, Historical and Current Usage
The Sumerians, Egyptians, Hebrews, and Greeks all admired aquamarine gemstones. Beads have been discovered in Egyptian tombs, suggesting that ancient civilisations valued aquamarine for both decorative and spiritual purposes. It was believed that the Hebrew High Priest of the Second Temple wore aquamarine stones engraved with the six tribes of Israel. Two thousand years ago, Greek artisans engraved designs into aquamarine stones, turning them into intaglios.
Roman fishermen called the gemstone “water of the sea” and used it for protection while at sea, as well as to bring luck in catching fish. Aquamarine was linked to the apostle St. Thomas, who made long sea journeys, even travelling to India to preach salvation. At that time, associating gemstones with the twelve apostles was common practice.
The Romans also believed that if the figure of a frog were carved on an aquamarine, it could reconcile enemies and turn them into friends. Another Roman legend stated that the stone absorbed the atmosphere of young love: “When blessed and worn, it joins in love and does great things.” Aquamarine was considered the ideal morning gift from a groom to his bride after the consummation of their marriage. Roman physicians used it to treat overeating and bloating.
In Medieval times, aquamarine was thought to rekindle love in married couples and was believed to render soldiers invincible in battle.
William Langland’s The Vision Concerning Piers and the Plowman (1377) mentions aquamarine as an antidote for poison. This belief was widespread in Europe, particularly among royalty, where poisoning was a constant concern. Unlike other gemstones, which required pulverisation for medicinal use, aquamarine was thought to be effective simply by being worn as a pendant or ring.
Interesting Facts
- The largest cut aquamarine, the Dom Pedro, weighs 10,363 carats and is housed in the Smithsonian Institution.
- Aquamarine is often heat-treated to enhance its blue colour.
- In ancient Rome, aquamarine was carved into amulets featuring sea gods for protection.
- The stone was once used in scrying, as it was believed to reveal truths when gazed into.
Folklore, Legends, and Tales
Aquamarine has long been associated with the sea and has inspired many myths. According to legend, aquamarine originated in the treasure chests of mermaids, giving it its reputation as the Sailor’s Stone. Sailors believed it could calm stormy seas and protect them from shipwrecks.
The Romans believed that aquamarine could reconcile enemies, and another legend suggested that it strengthened the bonds of love between couples.
The ancient Greeks thought that aquamarine was a gift from the sea god Poseidon. It was said to possess the ability to control water and protect those who journeyed across the ocean. Some Greek legends also suggest that aquamarine was a token of love from the gods to mortal women.
In medieval Europe, aquamarine was used for fortune-telling and was believed to provide clarity of vision when carved into a crystal ball.
Mystical Healing Properties, Astrology, and Zodiac Links
Aquamarine is a stone of tranquillity, emotional balance, and courage. It is believed to soothe anxiety, enhance clear communication, and encourage honesty. Some healers use aquamarine for stress relief and to improve mental clarity. It is also thought to strengthen the immune system and aid in cooling fevers and inflammatory conditions.
Astrologically, aquamarine is linked to Pisces, Aries, and Scorpio. It is ruled by the planet Neptune, reinforcing its connection to water and intuition.
Chakra System
Aquamarine primarily resonates with the Throat Chakra, facilitating open communication and self-expression. It is also linked to the Heart Chakra, promoting emotional healing and compassion.
Use as a Birthstone and for a Wedding Anniversary
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is traditionally given as a gift for the 19th wedding anniversary. It symbolises long-lasting love, courage, and renewal.
Aquamarine is a blue variety of Beryl that crystallises in hexagonal columns. The blue colour of this stone comes from minor traces of iron. It can commonly be found in association with Muscovite. This crystal is a very rare stone that has a long history. The first recorded use of this mineral was around 400 B.C. in Greece but has been used throughout multiple societies for over 2,000 years. Aquamarine can be found in the United States, Brazil, Australia and several other countries throughout Africa. The highest quality specimens currently on the market are coming out of Pakistan and Afghanistan.
