March’s birthstone, the dazzling aquamarine, is adored for its characteristic oceanic hues. Incandescent and mystical, aquamarine glows with the colors of still, clear water under a shining sun. Its name comes from the Latin “aqua” and “marinus,” translating to “water of the sea.” With its gorgeous coloration, it’s no wonder that it has traditionally been associated with water and maritime marvels.
What does aquamarine symbolize?
Aquamarine is believed to bring courage, luck and calm to its wearer. Roman and Greek sailors used aquamarine to bring luck for fishing and peaceful waves for their journeys, which is why it has historically been known as the “Sailor’s Gem.” Ancient Greek legends say that aquamarine spilled from mermaids’ treasure chests and washed onto the beaches, so it is thought that some sailors used the gem to protect themselves from sea monsters. Aquamarine is also believed to increase happiness in marriage as the traditional gemstone for 19th wedding anniversary presents.
Where is the largest aquamarine gemstone found?
While aquamarine is most frequently sold in jewelry stores, the largest cut aquamarine is on display at the National Museum of Natural History. When it was found in a Brazilian mine, the crystal weighed over 100 pounds, though it broke during excavation. The largest piece at about 60 pounds was carved into an obelisk sculpture by artist Bernd Munsteiner and named the Dom Pedro Aquamarine.
