Aquamarine, the captivating blue to greenish-blue variety of the mineral beryl, holds a prominent place as the birthstone for March. Named for its resemblance to seawater – derived from the Latin words “aqua” for water and “marina” meaning of the sea – this gemstone has been prized for its beauty and believed properties for centuries. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, and symbolism of aquamarine, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Aquamarine’s history is interwoven with maritime traditions and ancient beliefs. While specific dates for its earliest use are not detailed in the provided sources, it is known that beryl, the mineral family to which aquamarine belongs, has been valued since ancient times. Aquamarine shares its mineral family with other notable gems like emerald, morganite, and goshenite.
A notable example of aquamarine’s historical significance is found in a platinum Art Deco ring once owned by Lady Annie Francis Cullinan, wife of Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the Premier Mine in South Africa where the famed Cullinan Diamond was discovered in 1905. This museum-worthy piece, donated to the Smithsonian in 2017, showcases an intense blue, square-cut aquamarine.
Historically, aquamarine was believed to offer various benefits. Like many gemstones, it was once prescribed for ailments, specifically eye diseases, with the green color thought to be soothing to the eyes. It was also considered an amulet to ward off epilepsy in children. Beyond physical health, aquamarine was thought to strengthen memory, enhance intelligence, and even aid in predicting the future, embodying a symbol of rebirth and romance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, with a chemical formula of Be3Al2(SiO3)6. The variations in its blue color are attributed to trace amounts of iron within its chemical composition. The sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in its formation, but it is understood to form within pegmatites, coarse-grained igneous rocks.
Significant sources of aquamarine include Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka. The gemstone is also found in Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania, as well as parts of the United States, specifically in New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia. The Premier Mine in South Africa, known for the Cullinan Diamond, is also a source of aquamarine, as evidenced by the Lady Cullinan’s ring.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its desirability. It rates 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable enough for use in fine jewelry and resistant to scratching from everyday wear.
The color range of aquamarine is diverse, spanning from light blue and pure blue to shades of greenish-blue. The intensity of the blue hue is directly related to the amount of iron present in the gemstone.
While the sources do not provide details on clarity, cut, or carat weight standards, they do indicate that aquamarine is a popular variety of beryl, alongside emerald, morganite, red beryl, heliodor, maxixe, goshenite, and green beryl.
A table summarizing the key gemological properties, based on the provided sources, is as follows:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Beryl |
| Chemical Formula | Be3Al2(SiO3)6 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 - 8 |
| Color | Light Blue to Greenish-Blue |
| Luster | Not specified |
| Transparency | Not specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, aquamarine has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Its name, evoking the sea, naturally connects it to themes of tranquility, clarity, and courage. The sources mention its association with love, passion, and fertility, suggesting it was considered a stone of good luck.
Ancient cultures held diverse beliefs about aquamarine’s powers. It was believed to protect sailors at sea, a fitting association given its name and color. The stone was also thought to bring good luck and was credited with amazing powers against wickedness and deceit, even capable of blinding snakes according to some beliefs. Emperor Nero reportedly believed an emerald crystal (a fellow beryl) improved his discernment during gladiator battles, demonstrating the perceived power of beryl gemstones.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstone requires careful handling. The sources advise against using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as the gemstone may crack when exposed to high heat. The recommended cleaning method is warm, soapy water with a soft brush. This gentle approach helps preserve the stone’s delicate structure and maintain its adularescence.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and geological intrigue. From its ancient origins and association with maritime lore to its modern appeal in fine jewelry, aquamarine continues to captivate with its serene blue hues and enduring beauty. Its durability, coupled with its rich cultural significance, ensures its place as a cherished gemstone for generations to come.