My birthstone…
and my ring.
Aquamarine is a blue to a green-blue variety of precious beryl. The beryl group of minerals is most famous for chromium-rich, green emerald, which happens to be one of the ‘precious four’ gems of the world (diamond, sapphire, and ruby are the remaining three).
Aquamarine is one of the official birthstones for those born in March. Aquamarine is exceptionally hard and has an outstanding vitreous (glass-like) luster. It is most famous for its breathtaking sea-blue colors which can range from light to dark blue. The name ‘aquamarine’ was derived from an old Latin expression which meant ‘seawater’.
According to legend, aquamarine originated in the treasure chest of fabulous mermaids, and has since ancient times, been regarded as ‘the sailor’s lucky stone‘.
In Antiquity, as well as in the Middle Ages people believed that the cosmos is reflected in gemstones. It is no surprise that aquamarine is assigned to the planet Neptune and is also one of March’s official birthstones. The esoteric movement revived the ancient belief and the gem industry made it another marketing tool to promote certain gems.
The healing power of Aquamarine is said to be of help for arthritis, eye inflammation, sore throat and varicose veins.
© Netdancer Photography-Candace L Stauber
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