Stone of the Month: March Aquamarine

There is something captivating about the traditional birthstone for March, the aquamarine. Aquamarine embodies the allure of the ocean in its blue to seafoam green colouring and has some interesting oceanic lore attached to it. Historically, aquamarine was used as a talisman to protect sailors while at sea. They believed that it prevented them from drowning. Roman fishermen believed that it would ensure a good catch.

Aquamarine is the blue variety of the mineral beryl. It is found in many locations worldwide, most notably in Brazil, Afghanistan, and Africa. It is the traditional birthstone for March and is also one of the zodiac stones associated with Scorpio and Pisces. Aquamarine of high quality can command high prices but in its tumbled and rough form, is generally more affordable. Aquamarine is well recognised as a blue stone but a lot of natural, mined material will have hues of seafoam green due to the iron oxides present in its chemical makeup. In jewellery, this colour is generally considered undesirable so the aquamarine may be heated to eliminate the green tones. 

Metaphysically, aquamarine is said to be a protective stone for travellers, especially those who are travelling over the water. It is also known as the stone of eternal youth and happiness. It is symbolic of commitment and harmonious relationships. While known for its ability to encourage tolerance and compassion, it is also a stone of justice and good to carry when entering confrontational situations. 

In the 1980's, a massive 100 pound aquamarine crystal was mined and named the Dom Pedro aquamarine. It was cut down into a uniquely faceted specimen that weighed in at around 4.6 pounds once completed. This stunning specimen of aquamarine can now be found in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. An interesting article on this amazing gem can be found here at smithsonianmag.com