Aquamarine, with its serene blue hues, holds a prominent position as a birthstone for March. Alongside bloodstone, it offers those born in this month a choice of gems steeped in history and symbolism. This article delves into the multifaceted world of aquamarine, exploring its historical context, geological origins, gemological properties, and the beliefs surrounding its captivating beauty, all based on available sources.
History and Lore
The name “aquamarine” itself provides a clue to its historical association with the sea, derived from the Latin words aqua meaning water and mare meaning sea. This connection led to beliefs that the stone protected sailors and ensured a safe voyage, guarding against drowning and other perils at sea. Beyond maritime protection, aquamarine was also thought to possess medicinal value, believed to alleviate ailments of the throat, gut, and liver.
While specific dates regarding the initial discovery and use of aquamarine are not detailed in the provided sources, its presence in historical contexts is evident. A notable example is the significant aquamarine gifted to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by the Brazilian government in 1936. This dark blue, rectangular step-cut gem weighed an impressive 1,298 carats, showcasing the stone’s potential for large, spectacular specimens. Further demonstrating its historical significance, the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, believed to be the largest faceted aquamarine in the world at 10,363 carats, is a celebrated attraction at the Smithsonian Institution. This approximately 14-inch obelisk, crafted using the fantasy cut technique by Berndt Munsteiner, exemplifies the artistry applied to this gemstone.
The association of aquamarine with March extends beyond a simple birthstone designation. It is also traditionally given as a gift to celebrate the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family, a group of minerals that also includes emerald. The sources indicate that aquamarine is found in both primary and secondary deposits. Primary deposits are found within hard rock formations, specifically pegmatites, while secondary deposits occur in weathered pegmatites.
Brazil, particularly the state of Minas Gerais, has been a significant source of aquamarine for the past two centuries. The region’s diverse landscape, encompassing rocky hills, rivers, savannahs, and forests, harbors these gem-bearing deposits, especially near the gem center of Teófilo Otoni. The sources do not detail other significant mining locations.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources offer limited detail regarding the specific gemological properties of aquamarine beyond its color. Aquamarine is characterized by its beautiful blue hues, ranging from the deepest blue to a water-greenish blue. The intensity of the blue color directly impacts its value, with deeper, more saturated tones being more prized.
The sources mention that aquamarine is frequently chosen for engagement rings due to its beauty and durability, though a specific hardness value is not provided. It is noted that emerald, a fellow beryl family member, is more susceptible to cracking or splitting, implying aquamarine possesses greater toughness. The sources also briefly mention the “4 Cs” – Color, Cut, Carat, and Clarity – as important factors when choosing a diamond, but do not explicitly apply these to aquamarine.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with aquamarine centers around boldness, clarity, and harmony. The stone is believed to possess a calming influence, promoting tranquility and clear communication.
Beyond its general symbolism, aquamarine is linked to various astrological and spiritual beliefs. March babies have a selection of birthstones, including aquamarine, bloodstone, ruby, emerald, jade, and crystal, with some astrologists suggesting that overlapping zodiac signs may share birthstones. For example, Aries born on March 21, 22, and 23 may be associated with jade, while Pisces born on March 18, 19, and 20 may align with rock crystal.
The sources also touch upon broader gemstone symbolism tied to the days of the week. While not specific to aquamarine, this highlights a historical tradition of associating gemstones with planetary energies and their corresponding benefits. Friday is associated with emerald for love and excitement, and Saturday with diamond for happiness.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific instructions for the care and cleaning of aquamarine. However, the mention of emerald’s fragility suggests that, while more durable than some gemstones, aquamarine should still be handled with care to avoid accidental damage.
Conclusion
Aquamarine stands as a captivating March birthstone, embodying the serenity of the sea and the clarity of a clear sky. From its historical use as a talisman for sailors to its modern-day appeal in jewelry, aquamarine continues to enchant with its beauty and symbolism. Its geological origins in the pegmatites of Brazil, combined with its association with boldness, harmony, and enduring love, solidify its place as a cherished gemstone for generations to come. The gift of an aquamarine, whether for a March birthday, a 19th wedding anniversary, or simply as a token of affection, carries with it a rich history and a promise of tranquility and clarity.