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Sailors, Saints, and Scholars: The Fascinating Lore of Aquamarine
The lore and history behind March’s gem of the month, the Aquamarine, the ocean’s gemstone.
Aquamarine is part of the beryl family, which includes the very well-known emerald, and its color ranges from a beautiful pale blue to an almost translucent light green. With its name coming from the Latin words “aqua,” which means water, and “marine,” which means seas, it’s no surprise that sailors believed that possessing or wearing a talisman made from aquamarine would grant them protection on the water and ensure a safe voyage.
A Gem of Myth, Medicine, and Maritime Protection
Dating back over 4,000 years, it was believed that mythical mermaids living beneath the sea’s surface collected aquamarine as a unique treasure. Thanks to its color, name, and where it’s commonly found within the ocean, it’s not a massive leap for sailors and mariners to claim the aquamarine as a protective talisman while on the water. Sailors believed that by wearing or carrying aquamarine, mermaids that valued the stone would protect them during a storm or accident while at sea.
Other uses for aquamarine included as a purifying tool by the Ancient Romans. Wealthy merchants, aristocrats, and royalty would have goblets crafted out of aquamarine as they believed the gemstone would remove impurities from drinking water and protect against poison and illness.
Along with its water-purifying abilities, Ancient Roman doctors also utilized aquamarine to help those suffering from poor digestion, edema, and eating disorders. At the same time, Ancient Egyptians wore aquamarine jewelry for good health and pain relief.
During the Middle Ages, William Langland mentioned that aquamarine was an antidote for poisoning. With so many members of courts and royal families being poisoned, aquamarine quickly became a well-known and sought-after protective talisman.
Religious Symbolization
Throughout history, civilizations have sought symbols of vitality, renewal, and the preservation of youth. The Hebrews, Egyptians, and Sumerians all revered aquamarine for its association with happiness, longevity, and spiritual purification.
In ancient Egyptian culture, aquamarine was often buried with pharaohs to ensure their safe passage into the afterlife, as its serene blue hues were believed to carry the soul peacefully across celestial waters.
The Sumerians, one of the earliest known civilizations, regarded aquamarine as a sacred stone of divine favor, using it in their temple offerings and carvings dedicated to gods associated with wisdom and the sea.
Within Christianity, aquamarine carries deep spiritual significance, often linked to the apostle St. Thomas, the patron saint of scholars and travelers. St. Thomas was known for his long and treacherous voyages across the seas, particularly his missionary journeys to India in the 13th century, where he spread Christian teachings.
The aquamarine has been referenced as one of the twelve stones adorning the High Priest’s breastplate in the Old Testament, further emphasizing its sacred nature. In medieval times, Christian monks and clergy often set aquamarines in their rings and rosaries, believing that their clarity and brilliance reflected the purity of the divine.
Even today, the aquamarine remains a cherished gemstone in Christian iconography, symbolizing faith, enlightenment, and the cleansing of the soul.
Ancient Stories and Mythology
Writers in the Middle Ages believed that aquamarine was one of the most powerful and influential ‘oracle’ crystals and, when cut into a crystal ball, was the most effective gemstone for fortune-telling.
While much emphasis has been placed on the aquamarine and its relationship to the sea, it also helps create a strong connection with the sky and how it is reflected on the sea’s surface. It was believed that its reflective properties could enable the wearer to uncover hidden abilities within their souls while allowing them to see different aspects of reality.
Other stories have been told about aquamarine’s ability to aid decision-making, responsibility, and perseverance while giving the wearer clearer reasoning abilities and empowering them to make smarter, more informed decisions.
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