The name Aquamarine is derived from the Latin word ‘aqua’ meaning water and ‘marina’, meaning sea. Ancient mariners believed the gem would calm waves keeping the sailors safe. The serenely colored gemstone is said to bring hope and courage. Legend has it that Aquamarine brings happiness to a marriage, which makes it a thoughtful gift to celebrate your 19th wedding anniversary.
The traditional birthstone for March is Bloodstone. Although recognized as March’s birthstone previously, Aquamarine became the official birthstone of March in 1912, when the Jewelers Of America Association formalized a “modern” list of birthstones. Birthstones have changed over the centuries as different stones became less available, or other stones became more desirable. As a matter of fact, prior to 1912, Aquamarine was considered one of October’s birthstones! So, March babies have two stones to choose from – Aquamarine and Bloodstone.
INTERESTING AQUAMARINE FOLKTALES
AQUAMARINE AND THE GOD OF THE SEA
Aquamarine was believed to have originated from the treasure chest of the sirens (creatures from Greek mythology, who lured sailors to death with their enchanting voice). Roman fishermen believed that Aquamarines were directly related to the god of sea. Perhaps this sacred association with the sea made it the sailors’ gem, promising safe voyages, good luck for catching fish and protection against monsters of the sea.
Aquamarine’s first documented use was by the ancient Greeks between 480-300 BCE. The Greeks wore Aquamarine talismans engraved with Poseidon (Greek god of the sea) on a chariot.
AQUAMARINE AND EMPEROR NERO
Nero, the fifth Roman emperor, used thin slices of Aquamarine gemstones to correct his poor vision 2,000 years ago. Germans used slices of Aquamarine to correct shortsightedness. In fact, the Germans called glasses/eyeglasses ‘die Brille’, which is derived from the word ‘beryl’. Aquamarine is blue beryl, one of the most well-known beryl stones - along with green beryl, which we know as Emeralds.
AQUAMARINE AND THE MAGIC MIRROR
Fortune Tellers call Aquamarine the “Magic Mirror” - using it to tell fortunes and predict the future!
AQUAMARINE AND THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
The Spanish believed that Aquamarine was related to the Fountain of Youth based on folktales passed from the Ancient Egyptians down to Juan Ponce de Leon, a 16th-century Spanish explorer noted in many stories as searching for the Fountain Of Youth.. Perhaps it was because Aquamarine has long been referred to as the stone of the sea protecting sailors.
AQUAMARINE AND EGYPTIAN MUMMIES
Ancient Egyptians greatly admired Aquamarine for its beauty and metaphysical properties. They hailed Aquamarine as a potent symbol of happiness and a source of everlasting youth. Egyptians made Aquamarine amulets, talismans and beads.. Archeologists have found Aquamarine beads preserved in the tombs and mummy pits of Ancient Egyptians..
Understanding a gemstone’s rich heritage can help you pick the one that resonates with your personality the most. At Earth Song Jewelry, I create natural stone jewelry to invoke feelings of the artistic spirit of nature.
I would be more than happy to answer all your questions and help you pick the perfect Aquamarine birthstone jewelry for you or your loved one that will be cherished forever - just browse my store here or contact me!
