Aquamarine
Aquamarine, named for its blue-green coloring, is a gem-quality variety of the mineral beryl. The word "aquamarine" means water of the sea. The stone is popular for making jewelry, and the crystal is thought to have metaphysical properties by some. While beryl ore is used in industry to produce beryllium, the aquamarine gem is not. The gem is high on the hardness scale and has a bright luster. Often the aquamarine gem is flawless, with no inclusions at all.
Jewelry
Jewelry
Aquamarine gems are fairly abundant, which makes them an attractive choice for use in jewelry. The stones have beautiful blue-green color and a high luster. The aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March.
Aquamarine gems traditionally are given as jewelry for wedding anniversaries. Rings, earrings and pins adorned with aquamarine are given on the 18th wedding anniversary. Aquamarine often is mated with black onyx in jewelry because the black stone contrasts with the aquamarine and enhances the gem's shine.
Caution should be taken when buying aquamarine jewelry. Some pieces labeled aquamarine are actually cheaper synthetic blue spinel or glass. Natural aquamarine is sensitive to heat. A natural aquamarine gemstone, when heated, darkens from the pale blue or green to the intense aqua color the gem is known for.
Aquamarine Beads
Gemstone beads
Craft and homemade jewelry artisans use aquamarine gem beads in many of their creations. Small aquamarine beads of various colors and shapes are an affordable way to add luster to your craft project. The beads are available in rough crystal and shaped forms. Aquamarine and other gemstone beads allow jewelry craft hobbyists to inexpensively make attractive rings, necklaces and amulets. Gemstone bead projects are good gift items for young people who enjoy crafting.
Mystical Aquamarine
Healing crystal
New age spiritualists and healers believe aquamarine and other gemstone crystals have metaphysical properties that enhance healing and meditation. According to the website Charms of Light, the aquamarine is a stone of courage with calming and stress-relieving properties.
Some healing properties associated with aquamarine gemstones are soothing sore throats, easing upset stomachs and aiding short-sightedness. The stone also is thought to protect mother and child during pregnancy.
Tags: with aquamarine, Aquamarine gems, have metaphysical, have metaphysical properties, metaphysical properties, other gemstone