Aquamarine - The March Birthstone

THE GEMSTONE:

Aquamarine comes from the Latin word for ‘sea water’.  It is a light blue or blue-green member of the Beryl family of gemstones.  Aqua is available in quite large sizes and can be quite dramatic when step cut in a rectangular shape.  The best specimens are a pure blue with no green or gray overtones and very transparent.  Most are heat treated to purify the blue color.  Huge crystals are fairly common, and in Brazil in 1910 a crystal was found that was 18 inches long and weighed 243 pounds.  Aqua is the gemstone for the 19^th wedding anniversary

THE LORE:

Aqua was thought to have magical powers to convey foresight and allow the wearer to see into the future.  Aqua is said to ease depression and grief, re-awaken love, conquer wickedness, and cure hiccups.  Because of its seawater color, it was a talisman for sailors.