March Birthstone Selection: Aquamarine for New born Individuals
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Aquamarine, a gemstone with a rich history and mystical significance, is named after the Latin words aqua (water) and marinus (of the sea), reflecting its striking blue to blue-green color reminiscent of ocean waters[1][5].
History and Origins:
The use of aquamarine dates back thousands of years, with beads found in ancient Egyptian tombs indicating its early significance[1]. The ancient Greeks and Romans treasured aquamarine, believing it was either a gift from mermaids or created by Neptune, the god of the sea[1][3]. It was regarded as the "sailor’s gemstone," carried as a talisman by sailors to protect against storms, calm rough seas, and ensure safe voyages[1][2][3][4].
Mystical Properties and Significance:
Aquamarine embodies qualities of courage, clarity, emotional balance, and communication[2]. It is believed to foster inner peace, reduce stress, anxiety, and fear, and support emotional recovery[2]. As a crystal healing stone, aquamarine is said to aid physical healing especially for the throat, respiratory system, and immune system[2][3]. It is associated with Neptune and regarded as a planetary stone, linked with March and used as the birthstone for that month[3][5]. In metaphysical traditions, aquamarine helps sharpen thoughts, encourage self-expression, and boost overall well-being[2].
Significance to Sailors:
The oceanic blue hues of aquamarine connected it symbolically to the sea, inspiring legends of it being collected from mermaids' treasure chests[1][3]. Sailors believed wearing aquamarine could calm ocean waves, prevent seasickness, and ensure safe passage during sea voyages[1][2][3]. This connection made aquamarine a powerful maritime talisman protecting against seas' perils, resonating as "the sailor’s lucky stone" for centuries[3].
Use in Crystal Healing:
Aquamarine is believed to calm the mind and body, soothe anxiety, and enhance emotional healing[2]. Physical benefits are thought to include easing arthritis, sore throats, eye swelling, and varicose veins[3]. Crystal healers recommend wearing the stone close to the skin over affected areas for best effect, though such uses are complementary and should not replace medical advice[3].
The Dom Pedro Aquamarine:
One of the most famous aquamarines is the Dom Pedro aquamarine, discovered by three Brazilian miners in Pedra Azul, Minas Gerais, Brazil in the late 1980s[6]. The original Dom Pedro aquamarine was a metre-long before it fractured into three separate pieces[7]. The Dom Pedro aquamarine was cut by specialists in Idar-Oberstein, Germany in 1992, and its faceting and polishing were done by Bernd Munsteiner[8]. The Dom Pedro aquamarine was initially destined to be cut into many smaller stones but was saved for the museum collection[9]. The Dom Pedro aquamarine was first displayed publicly in Basel, Switzerland in 1993 and is now housed in the National Gem Collection Gallery of the Smithsonian National Museum of History in Washington DC, USA[8][9].
In summary, aquamarine’s history spans ancient civilizations, linked closely to the sea and maritime protection. Its mystical properties and healing associations have endured into modern times, celebrated for bringing calm, courage, and clarity, especially to those connected to the water[1][2][3][4][5]. The Dom Pedro aquamarine, the largest piece of cut aquamarine ever, is a testament to the gemstone's allure and enduring appeal.
[1] https://www.gemselect.com/gemstones/aquamarine.html [2] https://www.healingcrystals.com/aquamarine.htm [3] https://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/aquamarine [4] https://www.gemstoneuniverse.com/gem-encyclopedia/aquamarine.html [5] https://www.gia.edu/aquamarine [6] https://www.britannica.com/topic/aquamarine [7] https://www.gemstoneuniverse.com/gem-encyclopedia/dom-pedro-aquamarine [8] https://www.gia.edu/aquamarine-dom-pedro [9] https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-largest-cut-aquamarine-in-the-world-is-coming-to-washington-dc-180958428/
- The allure of aquamarine extends beyond its oceanic hues, with courses and workshops offering insights into its gemmology and science.
- For those interested in lifestyle, publications on fashion-and-beauty may feature aquamarine jewelry, showcasing its timeless elegance.
- Homeowners might also appreciate membership in organizations that offer information on home-and-garden decorating, as aquamarine can serve as a unique and striking addition to any space.
- During testing processes, aquamarine is a valuable gemstone for assessing the quality and durability of various products, reflecting its enduring appeal.
- By understanding the history, origins, and properties of aquamarine, membership in gemmology clubs could provide opportunities to participate in discussions and share knowledge about this fascinating stone.
