Aquamarine, a gemstone celebrated for its serene blue-green hues, holds a prominent position as the primary birthstone for March and is deeply connected to the zodiac sign Pisces. Its name, derived from the Latin “aqua marina,” meaning “water of the sea,” aptly reflects its captivating color and historical association with the ocean. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, aquamarine is imbued with symbolism of courage, calm, and clear communication, making it a cherished gem for centuries. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The historical relationship between aquamarine and humankind stretches back to ancient civilizations. The gem’s color led ancient cultures to associate it with the sea and its deities. In Greek mythology, aquamarine was believed to be the treasure of mermaids, and possessing the stone was thought to ensure a safe voyage. This association with sailors and the sea is a recurring theme in the gem’s lore, with legends suggesting it could calm waves and protect those at sea.
The modern recognition of aquamarine as a birthstone is relatively recent, formalized with the creation of the standardized birthstone list by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912, later adopted by the British Jewelers’ Association in 1937. This list assigned specific gemstones to each month, solidifying aquamarine’s place as the March birthstone. Historically, however, March has also been associated with bloodstone, serving as an alternative birthstone for the month.
For those born under the sign of Pisces, spanning approximately February 19th to March 20th, aquamarine is particularly significant. Individuals born in February may also claim amethyst as a birthstone, but those born in March are strongly linked to aquamarine. Other gemstones, including bloodstone, jasper, jade, ruby, lapis lazuli, and fluorite, are also sometimes associated with Pisces, though aquamarine remains the most prominent.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family, a group of minerals that also includes the emerald. Its chemical composition consists of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. The gemstone forms in pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks, and in metamorphic rocks. The blue color is attributed to trace amounts of iron within the beryl crystal structure.
While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the gem’s association with the sea suggests a historical belief in its origin from marine sources, though this is not geologically accurate. The sources do not provide specific details on current mining locations.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine exhibits several key gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and value. Its color ranges from a light, almost colorless blue to a more intense blue-green. The clarity of aquamarine is generally good, with many stones being eye-clean, meaning they lack visible inclusions to the naked eye.
The gem typically exhibits a hexagonal crystal system. While a detailed table of properties is not available in the provided sources, aquamarine’s hardness is a significant characteristic. It registers at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for various jewelry settings.
The name “aquamarine” itself, meaning “water of the sea,” is a direct reference to its defining color characteristic. The gem is often cut into various shapes, including emerald cuts, oval cuts, and round brilliant cuts, to maximize its brilliance and showcase its color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, aquamarine has been attributed with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. The serene blue-green color evokes feelings of tranquility, trust, and letting go. It is believed to promote courage, calm, and clear communication, making it a beneficial stone for those seeking emotional balance and self-expression.
For Pisces, a sign often associated with sensitivity and intuition, aquamarine is thought to foster creativity and imagination. It is believed to help soothe the mind, provide clarity, and enhance awareness. Some believe that aquamarine can activate chakras, particularly the throat chakra, facilitating open and honest communication.
Beyond its benefits for Pisces, aquamarine is also considered a symbol of luck and prosperity. It is traditionally given as a gift to celebrate a 19th wedding anniversary, signifying enduring love and harmony.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is relatively durable. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and prevent damage. The gem can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone.
It is also advisable to store aquamarine jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. Regular cleaning and careful handling will ensure that aquamarine continues to sparkle and retain its beauty for generations.
Aquamarine and Pisces: A Harmonious Connection
The connection between aquamarine and Pisces is particularly strong. Pisces, as the twelfth sign of the zodiac, is ruled by Neptune, the planet of creativity and dreams. Aquamarine, with its calming and imaginative qualities, aligns perfectly with the Piscean spirit. The gemstone is believed to help Pisces connect with their mystical side, enhance their intuition, and provide strength and comfort in times of stress. For those born under this sign, aquamarine is more than just a birthstone; it is a symbol of their unique energy and potential.
Conclusion
Aquamarine stands as a captivating gemstone, rich in history, symbolism, and beauty. Its association with the sea, its calming color, and its purported metaphysical properties have made it a cherished gem for centuries. As the primary birthstone for March and a particularly resonant stone for Pisces, aquamarine continues to inspire and enchant those who appreciate its serene elegance and enduring significance. Its durability and relative ease of care ensure that this “water of the sea” will remain a treasured possession for years to come.