For those born on March 19th, the aquamarine stands as a symbol of both tranquility and inner strength. As the birthstone for this date, aquamarine is not only admired for its striking blue hues but also revered for its historical significance and spiritual symbolism. This gemstone, a member of the beryl family, has captivated humanity for centuries, appearing in ancient jewelry, maritime traditions, and modern fashion alike.
Aquamarine's name, derived from the Latin aqua marina, meaning "water of the sea," reflects its ethereal color and its deep association with the ocean. Its soothing tones have been linked to calming properties, making it a cherished stone for those seeking emotional stability and clear communication. As both a birthstone and a wedding anniversary gem (19th anniversary), aquamarine carries rich meaning and enduring appeal.
This article explores the many facets of aquamarine—its geological properties, historical uses, cultural symbolism, and care instructions—offering a comprehensive look at the stone that marks the lives of those born on March 19th.
History and Lore
Aquamarine has a long and storied history, with references to the gemstone appearing in ancient civilizations as early as the Greeks and Romans. The name itself, aquamarine, comes from the Latin words aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning sea, a fitting tribute to the gem’s oceanic hues. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that aquamarine was a gift from the sea god Poseidon, and that it provided protection to sailors venturing across the vast waters. It was said that the gemstone ensured safe travel and calmed the turbulent seas.
In ancient Egypt, aquamarine was associated with youth and happiness. Amulets made from the gemstone were believed to bring luck and joy to the wearer. Over time, aquamarine became a symbol of calm and serenity, a gemstone that not only reflected the beauty of the sea but also offered its wearer a sense of peace and protection.
In the Middle Ages, aquamarine was valued for its supposed healing properties. Medieval sages recommended water touched by aquamarine for ailments of the eyes and lungs. It was also believed to grant insight and foresight to those who wore it, making it a favored gemstone among scholars and mystics.
By the 20th century, aquamarine had been officially recognized as the birthstone for the month of March. Its adoption as a birthstone for March 19th in particular reflects its enduring appeal and the qualities it represents—courage, honesty, and loyalty. Those born on this date are often described as emotionally sensitive and intuitive, and aquamarine is seen as a talisman that supports these traits.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, which is also the parent mineral of the emerald. The chemical formula of aquamarine is Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈, and its color is primarily due to the presence of iron impurities. Unlike emerald, which owes its green color to chromium or vanadium, aquamarine gets its blue and greenish-blue hues from iron in the crystal lattice. This iron content gives aquamarine its distinct color palette, ranging from pale blue to more intense, vivid blues.
The gemstone is formed deep within the Earth's crust, typically in granitic pegmatite rocks. These environments allow for the slow growth of large, well-formed crystals, which is why aquamarine is often found in relatively large sizes compared to other gemstones. The gem's clarity is also a notable characteristic; high-quality aquamarine often exhibits excellent transparency and a vitreous luster.
Aquamarine is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, China, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Zambia. Brazil, in particular, is one of the most significant sources of aquamarine, with large deposits found in the states of Minas Gerais, Bahia, and Espírito Santo. These Brazilian stones are often prized for their rich blue color and excellent clarity.
In addition to natural occurrences, aquamarine is often heat-treated to enhance its color. This process can deepen the blue tones and remove any greenish overtones, resulting in a more desirable hue. While untreated aquamarine is rare and highly valued, treated stones are more commonly available in the market and are generally considered stable and durable.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine is a relatively hard gemstone, with a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8. This makes it durable enough for everyday wear, although it is not as hard as diamonds or sapphires. The gemstone is also relatively stable in terms of color, though it can be sensitive to high heat. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause changes in its color, which is why aquamarine should be kept away from high temperatures.
The refractive index of aquamarine ranges from 1.577 to 1.583, and it exhibits a low birefringence (0.005 to 0.009), which means that it does not display significant double refraction. This contributes to its clear and transparent appearance. Its specific gravity is 2.72, making it a relatively lightweight gemstone for its size.
Aquamarine is typically cut in a variety of styles, including emerald cuts, round brilliants, and cabochons. The choice of cut often depends on the shape and quality of the rough crystal. The most valuable aquamarine stones are those that exhibit a medium-dark blue to slightly greenish-blue color, with excellent clarity and a high luster.
As with many gemstones, aquamarine can be found in both natural and treated forms. While natural aquamarine is highly prized, the majority of commercial aquamarine on the market today has been heat-treated to enhance its color. This treatment is stable and does not significantly affect the gemstone's durability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical properties, aquamarine is rich in symbolic meaning and metaphysical associations. In many cultures, it has been regarded as a stone of calm and protection. For those born on March 19th, it is believed to serve as a talisman that enhances their innate qualities of emotional sensitivity and intuition.
One of the most enduring legends surrounding aquamarine is its association with the sea. It was once believed to be the treasure of mermaids, and that it possessed the power to protect sailors from the dangers of the ocean. This belief contributed to its popularity among seafarers, who carried aquamarine as a protective charm for safe passage.
In modern metaphysical practices, aquamarine is associated with the throat chakra, which is linked to communication and self-expression. It is believed to help individuals speak their truth with clarity and confidence, making it a popular stone for those who seek to improve their communication skills. It is also thought to promote a sense of calm and emotional balance, helping to reduce anxiety and promote inner peace.
Spiritually, aquamarine is said to enhance intuition and higher consciousness. It is believed to open the channels of the mind, allowing individuals to access their inner wisdom and connect with their higher selves. This makes it a valuable stone for meditation and spiritual exploration.
In addition to its calming effects, aquamarine is also associated with courage and loyalty. It is believed to instill a sense of bravery in those who wear it, helping them to face challenges with confidence and resilience. It is also seen as a symbol of honesty and truth, making it a meaningful gift for those who value these qualities.
Care and Cleaning
Aquamarine is a durable gemstone, but like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. One of the key considerations in caring for aquamarine is to avoid exposing it to high heat, as this can cause changes in its color. While aquamarine is generally stable in terms of light exposure, it should be kept away from direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent any potential fading.
Cleaning aquamarine can be done safely with warm soapy water. A soft brush can be used to gently remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the gemstone. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also generally safe for aquamarine, but they should not be used on stones that have liquid inclusions or fractures. In rare cases, aquamarine may be fracture-filled, and in such instances, it should only be cleaned with warm soapy water to avoid damaging the stone.
When storing aquamarine, it is best to keep it in a soft cloth or a padded jewelry box to prevent scratches. Since aquamarine is relatively hard, it can be stored with other gemstones of similar hardness without risk of damage. However, it should not be stored with harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, as these can potentially scratch the surface of aquamarine.
For those who wear aquamarine regularly, it is also important to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as those found in household cleaners or perfumes. These can potentially dull the gemstone’s luster over time. If aquamarine jewelry is exposed to such substances, it should be cleaned as soon as possible to restore its brilliance.
Conclusion
Aquamarine, the birthstone for those born on March 19th, is a gemstone of both beauty and meaning. Its striking blue hues, derived from its iron content, have captivated people for centuries, and its association with the sea has made it a symbol of calm and protection. From ancient sailors who carried it for safe passage to modern-day wearers who value its calming properties, aquamarine continues to be a cherished gemstone.
As a member of the beryl family, aquamarine is relatively hard and durable, making it suitable for everyday wear. Its geological properties, including its refractive index, specific gravity, and clarity, contribute to its visual appeal and value. While natural aquamarine is rare and highly prized, treated aquamarine is more commonly available and is generally considered stable and durable.
In addition to its physical attributes, aquamarine is rich in symbolism and metaphysical meaning. It is believed to promote calmness, clarity, and emotional stability, making it a valuable stone for those seeking inner peace. Its association with the throat chakra also makes it a popular choice for those who wish to enhance their communication skills.
Whether worn as a piece of jewelry or cherished as a meaningful talisman, aquamarine serves as a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the natural world. For those born on March 19th, it is a symbol of their unique qualities and the enduring power of nature’s gifts.