Aquamarine - March's Gemstone
Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone that has been valued for centuries for its stunning blue-green color and association with water. This gemstone has a rich history and is steeped in symbolism, making it a popular choice for jewellery and other decorative items.
The name "aquamarine" comes from the Latin words "aqua" and "marina," meaning "water" and "of the sea." This gemstone has been used in jewellery and decorative objects for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was believed to be a talisman for sailors and fishermen, providing protection and ensuring safe passage across the seas. The Greeks and Romans also associated aquamarine with the sea and believed that it had calming properties.
During the Middle Ages, aquamarine was believed to have healing properties, particularly for ailments related to the throat, eyes, and ears. It was also thought to promote mental clarity and balance emotions. Aquamarine was also used in jewellery and decorative objects as a symbol of royalty and power.
Aquamarine is a type of beryl mineral, which also includes emerald and morganite. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone that is suitable for everyday wear. Aquamarine typically has a blue-green color that ranges from pale to dark, and can be found in a variety of cuts and shapes.
One of the unique physical properties of aquamarine is its pleochroism, which means that it can appear to have different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is particularly pronounced in larger stones and adds to the gemstone's overall beauty and appeal.
In addition to its beauty, aquamarine is also prized for its rarity and value. Fine-quality aquamarine can be found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or its stunning blue-green color, aquamarine is a gemstone that is sure to captivate and enchant.
The name "aquamarine" comes from the Latin words "aqua" and "marina," meaning "water" and "of the sea." This gemstone has been used in jewellery and decorative objects for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was believed to be a talisman for sailors and fishermen, providing protection and ensuring safe passage across the seas. The Greeks and Romans also associated aquamarine with the sea and believed that it had calming properties.
During the Middle Ages, aquamarine was believed to have healing properties, particularly for ailments related to the throat, eyes, and ears. It was also thought to promote mental clarity and balance emotions. Aquamarine was also used in jewellery and decorative objects as a symbol of royalty and power.
Aquamarine is a type of beryl mineral, which also includes emerald and morganite. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone that is suitable for everyday wear. Aquamarine typically has a blue-green color that ranges from pale to dark, and can be found in a variety of cuts and shapes.
One of the unique physical properties of aquamarine is its pleochroism, which means that it can appear to have different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is particularly pronounced in larger stones and adds to the gemstone's overall beauty and appeal.
In addition to its beauty, aquamarine is also prized for its rarity and value. Fine-quality aquamarine can be found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or its stunning blue-green color, aquamarine is a gemstone that is sure to captivate and enchant.