AQUAMARINE

ARCHANGELS:

Ariel and Raguel

COLOURS:

aquamarine green or semi-transparent light blue

THE ORIGINS:

History and Mythology

Origin of the name: From Latin aqua marinus ("sea water")

Antiquity:

Used by Greeks and Romans as an amulet for protection at sea

Considered the "mermaids' treasure" and linked to the god Neptune (or Poseidon)

Also used for medical purposes and love rituals

Middle Ages: Stone used in divination and to predict status and honours

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Worship and religion:

• • For Jews and Egyptians it symbolized youth and happiness

  • Christian monks called it the "Divine Stone."

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Documented History and Curiosities

First modern mention: 1609, Anselmus de Boodt

Historical use:

• • Pliny the Elder called it "fascinating"

  • Used as a lens in Germany (hence the term Brille for "glasses")

Modern discovery:

In India between 480-300 B.C., and later in Siberia (1723) and Brazil (1910)

Other historical uses:

Amulets, seals, Japanese netsuke, Chinese engravings

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Geological Formation

Formed during slow cooling of magma in pegmatitic, hydrothermal rocks or alluvial deposits

It requires an environment rich in beryllium and iron for its formation

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Spiritual Meaning and Properties

Symbolism: Serenity, protection, mental clarity, rebirth and young love

Beliefs: Strengthens communication, calms the mind, protects during travel, stimulates intuition

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Famous Aquamarine stones

Dom Pedro: The largest in the world (over 10,000 carats)

Roosevelt: 1,298 carats, given to Eleanor Roosevelt from Brazil

Tiara of Queen Elizabeth II: Coronation Gift, platinum with aquamarines

Hirsch: Used by Louis XV to calm himself down

Meghan Markle's ring: Lady Diana's former ring, given by Harry for the wedding

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Chakra:

5th VISHUDDHA - the throat -(facilitates self-expression and mental clarity)

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PROPERTIES, CHARACTERISTICS AND BENEFITS:

Mineralogical Characteristics

It is an aluminum cyclosilicate beryl, crystallizing in the hexagonal system.

Mohs hardness between 7.5 and 8, glassy luster, colour due to the presence of iron.

Pleochroism is present but weak (different shades depending on angle).

It has no flaking, but can break if bumped.

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Energetic and Spiritual Properties

Aquamarine is a stone that promotes balance, sincerity, serenity and inner growth.

It stimulates authentic communication, mediumship and intuition.

It helps to overcome shyness and deal with emotions calmly.

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Benefits in Crystal Therapy

On the physical level, it supports the thyroid and pituitary gland, strengthens the immune system, disinfects and soothes the throat.

Useful against allergies, respiratory problems, arthritis and vision disorders.

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On an emotional level, it reduces stress, helps to let go of old pains and improves communication in relationships.

It pairs well with the Bach flower Impatiens to work on impatience and tension.

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Use in Jewellery

Aquamarine is highly valued in jewellery for its delicate colour (light blue to deep blue-green).

Used in both DIY creations and ready-made jewellery (rings, necklaces, bracelets).

The most valuable varieties are those from Brazil (Santa Maria) and Madagascar (Double Blue).

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Zodiacal Curiosities and Symbolism

It is the stone of the month of March and associated with the signs Pisces, Gemini and Scorpio.

According to tradition, it is also connected to the Year of the Ox (Chinese zodiac).

It is symbolic of the 19th wedding anniversary and is chosen by many couples for engagement rings.

It is considered a "sea gem" and a symbol of good luck, peace and wisdom.

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CLEANING AND RECHARGING:

To purify it: immersion in salt water, Reiki, or leaving it on amethyst or rock crystal.

To recharge: exposure to moonlight (especially during a full moon); avoid direct sun.

When it has exhausted its energy, it can become fragile: in that case, it should be returned to nature, ideally in running water or the sea.

Avoid contact with chemicals; clean with warm water and a soft cloth.