A Journey Through Time
Aquamarine has captivated civilizations for over two thousand years. The ancient Romans believed it was the treasure of mermaids and used it as a talisman for safe voyages across the sea. Sailors wore it as protection against storms, while medieval healers thought it could calm tempests of both the ocean and the heart. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marinus, meaning “water of the sea,” reflecting the gem’s tranquil blue that echoes the stillness of clear waters.

Nature and Beauty
Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), sharing its mineral family with emerald and morganite. Its delicate hue comes from trace amounts of iron within its crystal lattice. With a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, it is both durable and lustrous, making it ideal for fine jewelry. The most prized stones display a pure sky-blue tone with exceptional clarity. Notable sources include Brazil, Pakistan, Madagascar, and Nigeria, with historical deposits in Russia’s Ural Mountains.

Symbolism and Energy
In Armillas’ language, aquamarine is the stone of serenity — a reflection of still waters and clear thought. It is said to calm the mind, release emotional tension, and enhance communication through truth and compassion. Traditionally linked to courage and harmony, it was considered a stone of peace for both sailors and lovers. (Cultural lore; not a medical claim.)

Legacy and Meaning Today
As the birthstone of March, aquamarine remains a timeless emblem of tranquility and renewal. Whether worn as a personal talisman or set in fine jewelry, it embodies the clarity of water, the courage of the voyager, and the calm of a serene mind.

Sources

• Mindat.org – Aquamarine Mineral Information (Beryl variety)
• Gemological Institute of America (GIA) – Aquamarine Gemstone Information
• GIA – History and Lore of Aquamarine