Aquamarine is a very popular and well-known gemstone by many. It’s clear blue color comes from the Iron in the soil from where it was mined. The color ranges from an almost translucent with a tint of blue to deep intense sea blue. The more intense the color, the more it is worth.
Originally Brazil was a major supplier from aquamarine mining. Now, however, many African nations such as Madagascar and other nations such as Pakistan and Afghanistan are providing supplies of this lovely gemstone.
Aquamarine was first documented between 480 – 300 BC by the Greeks. Many of them wore amulets made from aquamarine and engraved with the god Poseidon on a chariot. There are other legends as well. It was thought to be an antidote for poison in the Middle Ages. It was used for telling fortunes since the teller called aquamarine the “magic mirrorâ€. Others have used the gemstone for eyeglasses. Emperor Nero and the Germans for example.
Legend has it that aquamarine was created for mermaids in a treasure chest. It was considered to be a good luck charm for sailors and others who traveled on the sea. The Roman fisherman used the stone to bring them faith. It was said that sailors wore amulets made of aquamarine for the power it gave them to overcome powerful storms.
Carrying aquamarine is believed to give one a joyful marriage, making the wearer both happy and wealthy.
It also is known to help one obtain goals and focus, and enhance their communicating skills. Other power it is believed to have includes the ability to increase intuition, spiritual path and sensitivity.
On the Mohs’ scale, aquamarine is rated a 7.5 –8 out of 10-where 10 is the most hardy. This means that it is very resistant to scratches and perfect for jewelry. Aquamarine gemstones should be cleaned professionally or with mild soap and water regularly. Keep the stones away from solvents and harsh chemicals since these elements can easily damage gemstones.
When purchasing gemstones there are certain factors to consider. The price is established by the size, quality, cut, and type. Question the dealer on how the stone is treated. Aquamarine goes through the irradiation treatment in a process that enhances the color of the stone while removing imperfections. Another treatment used on stones to bring out the color is heat treatment. This is often used on aquamarine as well.
Make sure the stone is a natural stone. Some dealers may try to sell an imitation stone for a real one. One way to tell is if the stone is absolutely perfect, it may be a fake.
Aquamarine is a favorite stone for its color and clarity. It can be sophisticated or casual, depending on the jewelry setting it’s placed in. Aquamarine has be a prized gemstone for many due to its mystical healing properties and beliefs of healing. When shopping for a new gemstone, put aquamarine on your list to check out.
October 30th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
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November 19th, 2008 at 8:40 am
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April 30th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
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