Aquamarine

The very name, Aquamarine, comes from a Latin word for seawater. With its light greenish blue hue, the gemstone lives up to it's nomenclature. Most commonly cut as a faceted stone, the color and clear brilliance of the gem make it a true beauty.

Occasionally Aquamarine is found in large enough pieces to yield finished gemstones into the 1000-plus carat range, although most gem quality stones that are used for jewelry are much smaller. Because of its color and name, Aquamarine, a form of the mineral Beryl, has always been a favorite of seafaring folk. It was believed to ensure safe and prosperous voyages upon the sea, and to guard against storms.

This gemstone is found primarily in Brazil, Nigeria, and Afghanistan, and is usually heat treated to purify the blue and remove excessive green tones. While being Beryl makes it kin to Emerald, Aquamarine is usually free from major inclusions.

There are many qualities attributed to Aquamarine in folkloric circles. It was thought to be the symbol of happiness and everlasting youth, to bring victory in battle and in legal disputes, and to re-awaken love in long-married couples.

The Gem was credited with curing belching and yawning, and for being especially effective at warding off ailments of the jaws, throat, stomach and liver. It was believed to protect against poisoning and relieve toothaches. People have used Aquamarine in ceremonies in the belief that it would bring rain when needed, or visit drought upon their enemies.

Aquamarine's color was also thought to be symbolic of the moon. When worn as an amulet, it was reputed to bring relief of pain and to make the wearer more friendly, quicken the intellect, and cure laziness. Cut as a crystal ball, Aquamarine was thought to be a superior stone for crystal gazing and fortune telling.

Hardness: 7.5-8 Toughness: Good Birthstone: March