Aquamarine: Gemstone and Jewelry

Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone that gets its name from the Latin word aqua, which means water, and marina, meaning of the sea. As per its name, aquamarine is typically blue-green in color, much like the ocean waves. The gemstone belongs to the beryl family and is relatively rare compared to other popular gemstones like diamonds and sapphires. Aquamarine is often used in jewelry and has been highly sought after throughout history. In this article, we’ll explore the history, symbolism, and popularity of aquamarine, as well as its physical properties and how it's used in modern jewelry.

History: 

Aquamarine has been valued for centuries. Persian and Greek mythology both reference the gemstone. The Persians believed that the gemstone had the power to make their horses swift and strong, while the Greeks considered the stone as a symbol of good health, love, and youth. Ancient Romans believed that wearing aquamarine would keep them safe and protect them against any dangers and diseases while traveling over water.

In the Middle Ages, aquamarine was used as a symbol of happiness and love in bridal jewelry. However, it wasn't until the 18th and 19th centuries that the gemstone became a symbol of social status and wealth. Aquamarine has been used by several royal families, including the British monarchy, who have owned many pieces of jewelry containing the gemstone.

Symbolism: 

In addition to its aesthetic beauty, aquamarine also carries symbolic meaning. The gemstone has been considered a symbol of youth, hope, and fidelity. As it is associated with water, it's believed to calm and soothe its wearer. Ancient sailors wore aquamarine for good luck and to protect them from the dangers of the sea. Aquamarine is also associated with the throat chakra, which is believed to assist in communication and self-expression.

Physical Properties: 

Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, which is a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. It's a relatively hard gemstone, with a Mohs scale rating of 7.5-8. Beryl comes in several colors, such as emerald green, morganite pink, and heliodor yellow.

However, the blue-green color of aquamarine comes from the presence of iron in the crystal. The gemstone is typically found in granite formations in metamorphic rocks, such as schist and gneiss, and is mostly mined in Brazil, Madagascar, Zambia, and other countries in Africa.

The value of the gemstone depends on several factors, such as its color, clarity, size, and cut. The most valuable aquamarine can be a deep blue-green color, with few or no visible inclusions, and a larger size. Aquamarine is often cut into a rectangular or oval shape and can be faceted or left uncut in its natural form.

Modern Jewelry: 

Aquamarine's beauty and symbolism make it a popular gemstone for modern jewelry. It's often used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. The gemstone's color complements silver and gold settings and can be used in combination with other gemstones like diamonds and sapphires to create stunning and unique pieces.

Aquamarine is also a popular choice for birthstone jewelry and is the official birthstone for March. It's believed to symbolize courage, serenity, and understanding, making it a perfect gift for those born in March.

Aquamarine is a gemstone that has been valued for centuries. Its beautiful blue-green color and symbolic meaning make it a popular choice in modern jewelry. The gemstone's association with water and protection has made it a symbol of good luck and hope for sailors and travelers throughout history. Whether worn as birthstone jewelry or as a statement piece, aquamarine is sure to continue to shine and captivate for generations to come.