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Stone Lore
Aquamarine is the blue to greenish
blue variety of beryl. The name is
derived from the Latin word meaning
"Sea Water". The people of the
middle ages believed aquamarine
had magical powers that would give
them insight, forsesight and the
ability to conquer wickedness. It
was also used as a cure for eye
troubles, respiratory diseases and
hiccups. Found primarily in Brazil,
aquamarine is also mined in
Madigascar and Africa. Aquamarine
is commonly heated to eliminate
green undertones. The typical size
of aquamarine is a wide range from
small to large, and stones are
commonly seen in 10-30 carat sizes.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for M
arch and is designated for the 18th
wedding anniversary.
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Aquamarine is the birthstone for for the month
of March & anniversary gemstone for the 19th
year of marriage.
Aquamarine, birthstone for March, derives its name from
"sea water". Aqua (water) sparkles like the sea and its color
is light to medium blue, sometimes with a slight greenish
splash. According to some legends, it is the treasure of
mermaids, with the power to keep sailors safe at sea.
Aquamarine is said to be a particularly strong charm when
immersed in water (which is a good thing, since that is
when sailors need its power most!)
Aquamarine was also said to have a soothing influence on
land, especially on married couples. Its power to help
husbands and wives work out their differences and ensure
a long and happy marriage makes it a good anniversary gift.
Aquamarine also protects against the wiles of the devil. A
dream of aquamarine means that you will meet new friends.
Aquamarine is found in Brazil, Zambia, Mozambique, Angola,
Nigeria, and other countries. Aquamarine is always a pastel
blue but the darker the color, the more valued it is.
Professionals prefer a pure blue, with no green in it. Stones
with a a greenish tone are less expensive.
Because the color is generally pale, aquamarine should
have a good clarity. These stones are often cut in ovals and
emerald cuts. More saturated colors are unusual in small
sizes: usually it takes some size for the color to hold in a
darker shade.
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