more aquamarine mineral questions.....?

Question

A) Can you please telll me the history of the mineral (like what country started using it first as a birthstone ,or what myths or legends are associated with it )

B) Is the stone precious or semi-precious?

C) What's the chemical composition ?

Answer 1

Check out the sites for info on Aquamarines.

Once considered very precious, it is now considered precious to semi-precious by most jewelers, depending upon the specimen.

Chemically, it is Beryllium aluminum silicate or Be3Al3(SiO3)6.

Answer 2

A) The name "aquamarine" means sea water. The ancients saw this as a stone of courage. They felt that carrying it would help them return safely and to be prosperous from sea voyages. 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. Aquamarine is often used to experience love and mercy. It can help to ease depression and grief. Aquamarine is said to re-awaken love in long-married couples and signify the making of new friends. Legend has it that to wear aquamarine in earrings would bring love and affection. It is given as a symbol of beauty, honesty, and loyalty. Aquamarine is also said to have a soothing influence on land, especially on married couples. It's power to help husbands and wives work out their differences and ensure a long and happy marriage makes it a good anniversary gift.

B) In the recent past, precious stones refered to Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire & Emerald. Semi-precious refered to all other gemstones. Although these terms are still used by consumers and some jewelers, Gemologists do not differentiate gemstones along the "precious" "semi-precious" line because it is grossly inaccurate. For instance, tourmalines are usually considered "semi-precious". However, a fine Paraiba tourmaline is more expensive than many rubies and sapphires.

[It is interesting to note that descriptions in the bible show that the hierarchy of “precious” gems differ from modern times. These stones were valued in the descending order: jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, sardius, crysolite (topaz), beryl etc... ]

C) Be3 Al2 Si6 O18

Hope that helps! ^_^