Aquamarine

 

Name: Aquamarine
Color(s) Light blue, blue, blue-green, pale green; transparent to translucent
Mineral Information: Cyclosilicate, Beryl – beryllium bluminium bilicate, often with sodium, lithium, and cesium.
Chemical Make-up: Al2Be3(Si6O18)
Hardness: 7.5 – 8
Where they are found: Brazil, Russia, Nigeria, Zambia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of the United States
About Stone: Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, along with emerald, morganite, and bixbite (red emerald). Aquamarine is commonly heat treated to remove yellow color and enhance the bright blue tones of the gemstone. The natural blue and green colors of aquamarine come from ferrous iron and metallic ions. Aquamarine’s name comes from Latin, meaning water and sea. Aquamarine is the official state gem of Colorado. Aquamarine is the gemstone for the 19th year of marriage. Long associated with water, aquamarine was often worn by sailors to ward off seasickness and encourage safe travel. It was also seen as a stone of eternal youth.
Birthstone: March
Zodiac Association: Gemini, Pisces, Aries
Metaphysical Properties: Helps to reduces fear and increase courage. It aids in compassion and tolerance, and facilitates communication both with others and with the deeper self.