Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is a gemstone deeply connected to the ocean, its name derived from the Latin “aqua marinus,” meaning “water of the sea.” This light-hued gem is celebrated for its calming appearance and protective qualities, historically believed to ensure the safety of sailors and restore harmony. As a variety of the mineral beryl, aquamarine shares its chemical composition with emerald, yet distinguishes itself through a captivating palette of sea blue-green colors. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this enchanting gemstone.
History and Lore
The association of aquamarine with the sea dates back to ancient times. Legends claim the gemstone possesses the power to calm turbulent waves and safeguard those who travel by sea. Beyond maritime protection, aquamarine has been attributed with a range of beneficial properties throughout history. It is believed to offer protective armor against adversity, imbuing the wearer with fortitude and resilience. Specifically, the stone is thought to restore peace and harmony in troubled marriages, offering a beacon of hope for relationships facing difficulties.
The practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month is an ancient one, with birthstones believed to bestow unique fortunes and strengthen inherent qualities upon those born under their influence. Aquamarine, as the March birthstone, embodies the spirit of the first spring month, evoking images of serene beaches, clear oceanic waters, and expansive blue skies. It is also traditionally given as a gift to celebrate the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine forms in pegmatite deposits, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. These deposits are found in both primary (hard rock) and secondary (weathered) formations. The most significant source of aquamarine for the past two centuries has been the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. This region boasts a diverse landscape of rocky hills, rivers, and scrub brush, where aquamarine crystals are found near the gem center of Teófilo Otoni.
However, Brazil is not the sole origin of this captivating gem. Substantial deposits are also found in Pakistan, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, China, Myanmar, Russia, and Ukraine. The landscapes of these regions vary considerably, contributing to the unique characteristics of the aquamarine sourced from each location.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine is a crystalline variety of quartz, belonging to the beryl family. Its color ranges from a delicate aqua to pale green and pale blue. Faceted aquamarines are often remarkably transparent and free from inclusions, resembling the clarity of water. This transparency contributes to the gem’s overall appeal and brilliance.
While a detailed chemical formula is not provided in the sources, it is understood that aquamarine and emerald share the same mineral base, beryl. The sources do not provide information on refractive index, specific gravity, or other advanced gemological data. However, they do note that aquamarine possesses a relatively high hardness, making it resistant to scratching and suitable for various jewelry applications.
The size of aquamarine discoveries can be quite remarkable. For example, in 1936, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt received a dark blue rectangular step-cut aquamarine weighing 1,298 carats from the Brazilian government. This impressive gem was faceted from a rough piece of aquamarine that originally weighed 2.9 pounds. Another celebrated specimen, the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, is believed to be the largest faceted aquamarine in the world, weighing 10,363 carats (approximately 4.6 pounds). This approximately 14-inch high obelisk was skillfully crafted using the fantasy cut technique by German lapidary Berndt Munsteiner and is currently housed at the Smithsonian Institution.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, aquamarine has been imbued with symbolic meaning. The name itself, evoking the color of seawater, connects the gem to themes of purity, tranquility, and emotional clarity. Some believe aquamarine protects seafarers, while others associate it with marital happiness and superior intellect.
Modern metaphysical beliefs attribute a range of powers to aquamarine. It is thought to help overcome the fear of speaking, fostering clarity and confidence in communication. The stone is believed to connect the wearer to their inner truth and rightness, promoting self-expression and authenticity. Different shades of aquamarine are also said to possess specific properties: pale blue aquamarine is believed to lure back a lost lover, while greenish-blue aquamarine aids long-distance travelers.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide detailed instructions on the care and cleaning of aquamarine. However, given its relatively high hardness, it is likely durable enough for regular wear. Standard jewelry cleaning practices, such as using warm soapy water and a soft brush, are likely suitable for maintaining its brilliance. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which could potentially damage the gemstone’s surface.
Additional March Birthstones
While aquamarine is the most widely recognized March birthstone, other gems are also associated with this month. Bloodstone, a dark-green cabochon containing red spots of iron oxide, is believed to promote health and strength. It has a long-standing reputation for bringing long life and respect to the wearer, enhancing mental clarity and bolstering the immune system.
Jade, another March birthstone, is either nephrite or jadeite. It is most commonly green but can also be found in shades of purple, lavender, creamy white, black, and brown. Jade has been used for thousands of years in sculpting and is believed to provide access to the spiritual realm, offering mental clarity and increasing love and nurturing.
Jasper, specifically a variety known as the "Supreme Nurturer," is also linked to March. This chalcedony mineral is typically brown, clay-colored, or red-brown, often with speckled patterns. It is sourced from various locations, including India, Russia, Egypt, Madagascar, Brazil, Venezuela, and Australia.
Conclusion
Aquamarine stands as a captivating gemstone, deeply rooted in history, lore, and natural beauty. Its connection to the sea, its calming hues, and its attributed protective qualities have made it a cherished gem for centuries. As the birthstone for March, aquamarine embodies the spirit of renewal and tranquility, offering a sense of peace and clarity to those born under its influence. From ancient legends to modern metaphysical beliefs, aquamarine continues to enchant and inspire, solidifying its place as a treasured gem for generations to come.