Aquamarine

Semi-Precious · Beryl Family

Stone of courage and serenity — the treasure of the sea.

• Courage
• Serenity
• Clarity
• Communication
• Protection
• Calm

Aquamarine is a pale blue-green variety of beryl, its colour caused by iron. Its name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina' meaning 'sea water'. Ancient sailors carried aquamarine believing it was the treasure of mermaids and would protect them at sea. It is the birthstone for March.

Healing

Anxiety, Sore Throat, Communication Blocks, Nervous System, Phobias

Everyday uses

One of the most popular precious gemstones for fine jewellery alongside sapphire, emerald, and diamond. The largest faceted aquamarine in existence is the Dom Pedro, weighing 10,363 carats, displayed in the Smithsonian Institution. Historically used as a talisman by sailors and sea voyagers for safe passage. Beryllium is extracted from beryl minerals for aerospace and nuclear industries.

Spiritual meaning

Aquamarine calms and cools the emotional body, making it excellent for those who suffer from anxiety, phobias, or overwhelming emotions. It activates the throat chakra and is considered the best stone for public speakers, singers, and anyone who struggles to communicate clearly or calmly.

Formation

Aquamarine crystallises in granite pegmatites where beryllium-rich magmatic fluids cool slowly. The crystals grow as perfect hexagonal prisms, sometimes reaching extraordinary sizes — the largest crystal ever found weighed 110 kg. Iron gives it its characteristic blue-green colour.

Where it is found

Brazil (Minas Gerais) produces the world's finest aquamarines. Other major sources include Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Zambia, Madagascar, Russia (Ural mountains), and the United States (Colorado, Wyoming).

Zodiac

Pisces, Aries, Gemini, Aquarius

Chinese element

Rat, Dragon, Monkey, Tiger