Named after seawater, aquamarine's watery hue is like a cool plunge into a refreshing pool. Aquamarine, March's birthstone, can occur in shades of pastel blue, greenish blue or green blue.
According to legend, aquamarine originated in the treasure chests of mermaids and has, since ancient times, been regarded as the sailors' lucky stone.
In ancient times, sailors wore amulets of aquamarine for protection at sea. The amulets were engraved with Poseidon or Neptune, the gods of the sea.
In addition to calming the waves, legend says aquamarine also has a soothing influence on relationships. It is thought to have the power to ensure a long and happy marriage - which makes it an excellent choice for an anniversary gift!
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl. Like many beryls, aquamarine forms large crystals. The largest gem-quality aquamarine mined to date is 19 inches long.
The world's largest faceted aquamarine, the obelisk-shaped fantasy-cut "Dom Pedro", stands nearly 14 inches tall and weighs 1,363 carats. It sits in a display case 30 feet from the Hope Diamond in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
Fine aquamarines are a marriage between color and clarity. The best are dark blue to slightly greenish blue with no inclusions. Careful cutting maximizes both qualities to produce superb gems.
Aquamarines make fantastic gemstones for evening wear because they glitter and gleam even under muted light conditions.
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