Aquamarine, with its captivating hues reminiscent of the ocean, holds a prominent place as the traditional birthstone for March. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this gemstone boasts a rich history steeped in lore, symbolizing serenity, clarity, and courage. It is a favored choice for jewelry, particularly for gifts commemorating March birthdays or as a “push present” for new mothers. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of aquamarine, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The name “aquamarine” itself originates from the Latin words “aqua” and “marina,” meaning seawater, a fitting descriptor for its color range. Ancient mariners held this gem in high regard, believing it possessed the power to calm waves and ensure safe passage across the seas. This belief extended beyond mere seafaring; aquamarine was also thought to bring happiness and good fortune in marriage. Historical accounts suggest that beryl, the mineral family to which aquamarine belongs, was believed to offer protection in battle and legal disputes, fostering amiability and sharpening the intellect.
Aquamarine’s significance is further highlighted by its association with important historical figures. In 1936, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt received a remarkable 1,298-carat aquamarine from the Brazilian government, now housed at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. The Smithsonian Institution showcases the even more impressive Dom Pedro Aquamarine, a 10,363-carat obelisk fashioned using a unique “fantasy cut” technique. The gem is also traditionally given as a gift on the 19th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, a beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. The distinctive blue coloration arises from trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure. It is found in both primary and secondary deposits. Primary deposits are found within hard rock pegmatites, while secondary deposits occur in weathered pegmatites or as pebbles in riverbeds.
Brazil, specifically the state of Minas Gerais, has been a significant source of aquamarine for over two centuries. The region’s diverse landscape, encompassing rocky hills, rivers, savannahs, and forests, harbors these gem-bearing deposits, particularly near the gem center of Teófilo Otoni. Other sources include India, as well as locations in Brazil, Australia, China, and the United States.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine exhibits a range of blue hues, from very light to light pale blue, blue-green, and teal. These water-like colors make it a versatile gemstone, complementing various skin tones and outfit colors. It is often found free from inclusions and remarkably clear, symbolizing purity.
While not as hard as sapphire, aquamarine measures 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear. This means it can be scratched by harder materials, so care should be taken to avoid abrasion. It is a durable gemstone, but requires careful storage to prevent scratching.
Aquamarine and emerald both belong to the beryl family, but their colors differ due to the presence of different trace elements. Iron creates aquamarine’s blue hue, while chromium and vanadium produce emerald’s green color. Emeralds are generally rarer and more valuable, especially in larger sizes, but aquamarine offers a stunning and often more accessible alternative.
A comparison of hardness on the Mohs scale is shown below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Talc | 1 |
| Gypsum | 2 |
| Calcite | 3 |
| Fluorite | 4 |
| Apatite | 5 |
| Aquamarine | 6.5-7 |
| Orthoclase | 6 |
| Quartz | 7 |
| Topaz | 8 |
| Corundum (Sapphire/Ruby) | 9 |
| Diamond | 10 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Aquamarine is deeply associated with symbolism. It represents serenity, clarity, and courage. Some believe it helps reduce stress and promotes harmony in relationships. The gem is thought to offer calm and protection, particularly to those who travel by water. It is also considered to be a stone that fosters mental clarity and quickens the intellect.
Beyond its traditional symbolism, aquamarine is sometimes presented as an alternative to blue sapphire. While sapphires are known for their deeper blue color and greater hardness (Mohs 9), aquamarine offers a lighter, ocean-like hue and can be a more affordable option.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of aquamarine jewelry is relatively straightforward. The gemstone can be easily cleaned at home using warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals and extremely high temperatures, as these can damage the stone. After cleaning, dry the aquamarine with a clean, soft cloth. To prevent scratches, store aquamarine jewelry in a soft fabric pouch or compartment, separate from harder gemstones.
Aquamarine as Baby Jewelry
Aquamarine’s gentle blue color and association with calm and protection make it a popular choice for baby jewelry. Its symbolism of serenity and clarity is particularly appealing for gifts celebrating the arrival of a new baby born in March. The gemstone’s versatility allows for a wide range of jewelry styles, from delicate pendants and earrings to charming bracelets and rings.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, March’s captivating birthstone, is more than just a beautiful gem. Its rich history, geological origins, and symbolic meanings contribute to its enduring appeal. From ancient mariners seeking safe passage to modern jewelry enthusiasts appreciating its serene beauty, aquamarine continues to enchant and inspire. Its durability, combined with its relatively accessible price point compared to some other blue gemstones, makes it a cherished addition to any jewelry collection. The stone’s association with courage, clarity, and calm ensures its continued relevance as a meaningful gift and a symbol of hope and tranquility.