Aquamarine is a unique gemstone that has captured the hearts and imagination of many people. The word aquamarine comes from the Latin word aqua. It means water, and marina, meaning of the sea.uamarine
It signifies its lovely blue-green color which is reminiscent of the open ocean. Thus, in this blog, we will talk about aquamarine in history; the stone of mermaids and sailors. Here we go.
Historical Significance of Aquamarine Gemstone
The history of aquamarine gem has been for over four thousand years when it was first known to be used by the earliest civilization in Ancient Egypt. Egyptians believed that aquamarine gemstone belonged to the sea goddesses, and hence they even wore amulets of this stone to gain good health and pain relief.
It has been found in the burial places of Egyptian mummies, thus evidencing its importance in their culture. In ancient Rome, aquamarine was referred to as “the sailor’s stone”.
Many sailors embarked on sea voyages carrying this gemstone as a protection talisman. The famous historian Pliny the Elder described aquamarine gems as one of those gems that came from “some mermaid’s treasure house” and emphasized its importance to the sea.
According to Romans, aquamarine ensures a safe passage across stormy waters and is believed to even relieve seasickness. They also used it for drinking water purification, recognizing its purifying property.
Myths and Legends about Aquamarine Gemstone
The appeal of aquamarine can be traced in mythology. The mermaids were said to love this gem, and it was believed that it provided safety to the sailors. Based on this belief, aquamarine became a lucky stone for sailors, which spelled hope and security during voyages.
In Greek mythology, aquamarine gemstone is associated with Poseidon, the god of the sea. Romans associated it with Neptune. Both cultures believed that it guards against the dangers of the sea.
Cultural Significance of Aquamarine Gemstone
In the medieval world, the gemstone was believed to purify. Kings and queens wore aquamarine jewelry as a form of protection against treason. One other gem that was quite famous among the royalties was Malachite.
In Indian culture, the dowry gift traditionally contained aquamarine because of its properties: love and fidelity. The gemstone is believed to revive a couple’s passion for each other. Hence, it is worthy of being part of certain cultural traditions.
It is one of the stones that was used in the High Priest’s breastplate during the ancient Hebrew tradition. It represented purity and favor from God.
Read also: 10 Fascinating Facts about Aquamarine Gemstones.
Modern Significance of Aquamarine Gemstone
Aquamarine gemstone is still used in jewels because of its beautiful color and transparency. It is the birthstone of March-born people. People are still fascinated by the beauty of aquamarine just like they were during ancient times.
Some of the notable pieces of jewelry done using aquamarines include the tiara owned by Queen Elizabeth II. It is made from Brazilian aquamarines that the president, Getúlio Vargas, gifted the queen in 1953. This would be enough reason why aquamarines remain a preferred gemstone among royalties.
It is believed that aquamarine is healing stone. It is also believed to cure respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis and allergies.
Many people believe that this stone fosters peaceful tranquility and clarity in emotions and thoughts; hence, it becomes a darling to those looking for emotional balance in life. One other gem worn for bringing emotional balance in life is Moonstone.
Conclusion
Aquamarine is more than just a pretty gem; it is one of protection, love, and purity. A gem that sailed through time and cultures from the ancient Egyptians who wore its beauty to the modern-day jewels, it has caught the hearts and souls of people all for years.
Aquamarine, worn as jewelry or kept as a treasured keepsake, reminds us of our relationship with the sea and the ageless legends that surround that magical stone.
Looking forward into the future, aquamarine will continue to be acclaimed not just because of its beautiful appearance but also because of its deep-rooted history in the human chronology a true testament to the title of “the stone of mermaids and sailors.”
