Aquamarine, the serene blue gemstone of March, captures the tranquil essence of ocean waters. As one of the two official birthstones for the month, alongside bloodstone, aquamarine has evolved from an ancient mariner’s talisman to a modern symbol of clarity and calm. Its name, derived from the Latin aqua (water) and marina (of the sea), perfectly describes its color range from deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue hues. This member of the beryl mineral group is prized for its durability, clarity, and profound historical significance. This article explores the geological formation, gemological properties, rich history and lore, and cultural symbolism of aquamarine, drawing exclusively from authoritative sources to provide a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, collectors, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
Aquamarine’s history is as deep and enduring as the ocean it resembles. The gemstone, a light to deep blue variety of beryl, was referred to as “sea-green beryl” in the writings of the Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and Sumerians. These early civilizations recognized the gem’s beauty and its intrinsic association with the sea. While the gem was admired for centuries, its modern name was not formally established until 1609, when it appeared in print in the work Gemmarum et Lapidum Historia by Anselmus de Boodt. The name, derived from the Latin aqua (water) and marina (of the sea), aptly describes the gemstone’s resemblance to ocean waters.
Historically, aquamarine was believed to possess protective and calming properties. Ancient mariners carried aquamarine for safe passage at sea, believing it could calm turbulent waters and protect sailors from storms. This belief persisted through the ages and contributed to the gemstone’s enduring reputation as a symbol of tranquility and peace. Beyond its maritime lore, aquamarine was also thought to bring happiness in marriage and was believed to give the wearer protection against foes in battle and litigation. It was also thought to make the wearer unconquerable and amiable, and to quicken the intellect.
In medieval Europe, aquamarine was used in jewelry and religious artifacts, often associated with divine protection and purity. The gemstone’s journey into the modern era as a birthstone was not immediate. While it has long been cherished for its beauty and symbolism, it was not until the 20th century that aquamarine was officially designated as the birthstone for March. Some sources indicate that bloodstone was previously the dominant March birthstone, and a few jewelers still list bloodstone as an alternative. However, aquamarine has since become the more widely recognized and commercially popular option.
Aquamarine also holds a place in the realm of spiritual and metaphysical beliefs. Some traditions associate it with the throat chakra, emphasizing its role in communication and clarity of thought. Others view it as a stone of emotional healing, believed to soothe stress and encourage emotional balance. Some traditions suggest that it can aid in overcoming fears and uncertainties, particularly in situations involving communication or self-expression. The gemstone is also associated with the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to speak with clarity, honesty, and confidence. This property has made it popular among public speakers, performers, and those who rely on effective communication in their work.
In addition to its March birthstone designation, aquamarine is also given as a present on the 19th wedding anniversary. A notable example of its historical significance is the dark blue rectangular step cut aquamarine given to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1936 by the government of Brazil, which weighed 1,298 carats.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a member of the beryl mineral group, which includes other well-known gemstones such as emerald (green beryl) and morganite (pink beryl). Chemically, aquamarine is composed of beryllium aluminum silicate, with the formula Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆. Its blue coloration is due to the presence of iron in the crystal structure.
The formation of aquamarine occurs deep within the Earth’s crust, typically in pegmatites—coarse-grained igneous rocks that form during the final stages of magma crystallization. These environments are rich in minerals and provide the ideal conditions for the growth of large, well-formed crystals.
Major mining locations for aquamarine include several regions across the globe. Notable sources in South America include Brazil, where deposits are found in the states of Minas Gerais, Bahia, and Rio Grande do Norte. In Brazil, miners must climb steep paths to elevations of 9,800 to 13,000+ feet (3,000 to more than 4,000 meters) and work the sides of forbidding cliffs to reach the deposits. Aquamarine from this area has been described as “water clear.”
Aquamarine birthstones are also mined in Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Zambia, and Mozambique, as well as elsewhere in Africa. U.S. sources include the Mount Antero area of Colorado (it’s the state gem) and California’s Riverside and San Diego counties. In addition, aquamarine has been found in China, Myanmar, Russia, and Ukraine, among other countries.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine is valued for its excellent durability and clarity. With a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, this March birthstone is durable enough for everyday wear. This hardness makes it resistant to scratching and suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants.
The gemstone’s color is its most defining characteristic, ranging from deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue hues. Faceted aquamarines are often free from inclusions and as clear as water, symbolizing purity of spirit and soul. The blue color is caused by trace amounts of iron within the crystal lattice.
Aquamarine’s chemical composition, Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆, classifies it as a beryl, and its formation in pegmatite environments often results in large, well-formed crystals that can be cut into impressive gemstones. While aquamarine is known for its clarity, like all gemstones, it can contain inclusions, which are natural features that can affect its value and appearance. However, high-quality aquamarine is prized for its transparency and lack of visible inclusions.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties of aquamarine based on the provided sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Group | Beryl |
| Chemical Formula | Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆ |
| Color | Light to deep blue; can be slightly greenish blue |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7.5 – 8 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal (implied by beryl group) |
| Primary Formation | Pegmatites |
| Transparency | Typically transparent to translucent; often clear |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism of aquamarine is deeply intertwined with its color and historical lore. As a symbol of the sea, it embodies calm, clarity, and the enduring connection between humanity and nature. Ancient mariners believed it could calm waves and keep sailors safe, a belief that has translated into a modern symbolism of tranquility and emotional balance.
In alternative medicine and crystal healing, aquamarine is believed to have physical healing properties. It is thought to support the immune system, aid in the treatment of throat and respiratory issues, and promote overall well-being. Some practitioners also claim that it can help with digestion and circulatory health. While these claims are not supported by scientific evidence, they remain part of the cultural and spiritual significance of aquamarine.
Metaphysically, aquamarine is strongly associated with the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to speak with clarity, honesty, and confidence. This property has made it popular among public speakers, performers, and those who rely on effective communication in their work. Some traditions suggest that it can aid in overcoming fears and uncertainties, particularly in situations involving communication or self-expression.
The gemstone’s historical use in religious artifacts and royal regalia in ancient times, and its association with purity in medieval Europe, further cement its status as a stone of spiritual and emotional significance.
Care and Cleaning
Given its hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is relatively durable and easy to care for. Caring for the gem is straightforward. To clean aquamarine jewelry, use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush to gently scrub behind the birthstone where dirt can collect. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are usually safe options for aquamarine, provided there are no fractures or liquid inclusions in the gem. It is best to keep it in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid exposing aquamarine to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause fading or discoloration.
Conclusion
Aquamarine is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and enduring significance. As the birthstone for March, it carries with it a legacy of tradition, myth, and meaning. Its connection to the sea and its calming color have made it a symbol of tranquility and peace. From its geological origins in pegmatite crystals to its role in jewelry and spiritual practices, aquamarine remains a gemstone of both scientific interest and cultural importance. Its durability, clarity, and serene blue hue ensure its continued popularity among gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and collectors worldwide. Whether worn for its beauty, its symbolism, or its historical significance, aquamarine continues to inspire and enchant, reflecting its lasting appeal and the universal human fascination with the wonders of the natural world.