Aquamarine

Aquamarine Stone Meaning and History

The name "aquamarine" derives from the Latin for seawater, reflecting its captivating hues reminiscent of the ocean. Ancient mariners believed this gemstone had the power to calm waves and ensure the safety of sailors at sea. As the birthstone for March, aquamarine was also associated with bringing happiness in marriage. Additionally, beryl, the mineral group to which aquamarine belongs, was believed to offer protection against foes in battle and legal disputes, as well as to instill unconquerable traits and enhance intellect.

Aquamarine holds significance as a gift for the 19th wedding anniversary. Notable examples of this gem's fame include a 1,298-carat dark blue aquamarine gifted to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by the government of Brazil in 1936, now housed at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. Another renowned specimen is the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, showcased at the Smithsonian Institution, weighing approximately 10,363 carats and believed to be the largest faceted aquamarine globally. This impressive obelisk, standing around 14 inches high, was fashioned using the fantasy cut technique by renowned German lapidary Berndt Munsteiner.

Where is Aquamarine found?

The Brazilian state of Minas Gerais has served as a significant source of aquamarine for over two centuries, offering diverse landscapes ranging from rocky hills and rivers to lush green hillsides. Aquamarine deposits are primarily found in both primary (hard rock) and secondary (weathered) pegmatite formations in the eastern region of the state, near the gem hub of Teófilo Otoni.

In the Karakorum foothills of Pakistan, aquamarine is also mined at high elevations, with miners navigating steep paths to reach deposits located between 9,800 to over 13,000 feet. Despite the challenging terrain, the region boasts fertile valleys and rushing rivers below the rocky cliffs where aquamarine is found, with the gemstones described as "water clear."

Aquamarine mining extends to various countries in Africa, including Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Zambia, and Mozambique, as well as regions within the United States such as the Mount Antero area of Colorado (the state gem) and Riverside and San Diego counties in California. Additionally, aquamarine deposits have been discovered in China, Myanmar, Russia, Ukraine, and other countries around the world.

Aquamarine Stone Care and Cleaning

With a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday wear. Caring for the gemstone is simple: use warm water, mild dish soap, and a toothbrush to scrub behind the birthstone where dirt may collect. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are generally safe options, provided there are no fractures or liquid inclusions in the gem.