Aquamarine as a birthstone
by Madhubanti Rudra
Different gemstones have the power to harmonize different planetary influences. Based on the foundation stones of this notion, men have invested plenty of resources in search of the mystic powers of different gemstones corresponding to particular planets. The outcome of one such effort is the studies about birthstones.
Chased by the fears of unknown, men have always endeavored to crack the mysteries of universe and prevail over the nature. Similarly he never agreed to remain a mere pawn in the hands of destiny. Instead, he always wished to become the master of his own future and curve the path of his own fate. In course of his struggle to overcome the challenges of destiny, thousands of years ago, our ancestors found out how planetary situations and cosmic energies control our lives. They also discovered that, different gemstones have the power to harmonize different planetary influences.
Based on the foundation stones of this notion, men have invested plenty of resources in search of the mystic powers of different gemstones corresponding to particular planets. The outcome of one such effort is the studies about birthstones. Since long, birthstones have been regarded as important luck enhancers. Birthstones denote the particular gemstone corresponding to a particular calendar month. A person born in a particular month is supposed to wear the birthstone, assigned to that month; it is believed to enhance his luck. The genesis of modern western birthstones can be traced back to the Jewish history. It was believed to be associated with the “Breastplate of Judgement”, presented to Aaron by Moses and in Bibel, the Breastplate has been described as being set with twelve gemstones, each with an engraving of the name of twelve tribes of Israel.
The order in which the twelve gemstones were used, was later came to indicate the order for the birthstones for particular months. In August 1912 American National Retail Jewellers Association (ANRJA) modified the list of stones, making it more commercially viable. The list gained its final shape in 1952 and acquired the approval of ANRJA, American Gem Society (AGS), NJA(National Jewellers Association) and ASIA(American Stone Importers Association). The list of birthstones established at that point of time continues till date. According to this list, aquamarine is the birthstone of March. The birthstones by the means of their vibratory forces are capable of producing significant effects on our physical and mental well being and that can change our subsequent life entirely. Similarly aquamarine birthstones work out its magic on the lives and minds of the March-borns.
However, the students of Astrology maintained that the true value of the gems can be explored only in connection with the signs of Zodiac in which the sun or moon rested at one’s time of birth. According to this school, each sign of the Zodiac has a particular planet as its ruler. Now each planet has a particular gemstone that harmonizes the cosmic energy. Thus, one can wear a birthstone according to the sign which the sun or moon was tenants at the time of birth. So far as aquamarine is concerned, it is astrologically associated with the Zodiac signs of Aries (March 22 – April 20), Libra (September 23 – October 23) and Scorpio (October 24 – November 21). Either as a modern birthstone or a birthstone of Zodiac sign aquamarine produces great results on the mental or physical well being of the wearer.
Through their measured radiation, aquamarine not only increases the psychological power of an individual, it also protects in from the evil effects of the planet by the means of its curative power. Found in the treasure chest of mermaid it has always been associated with sea and the lives of the sailors. In the ancient as well as middle ages, sailors always carried aquamarine in all their voyages to get protection from the perils of sea. It also works wonderfully against any kinds of seasickness. All over the world, this beautiful gemstone has been beloved by the women as it symbolized love, loyalty and honesty. It is believed to have the splendid power of kindling love in the lives of married couples. It also reawakens love in the lives of long married couples. Aquamarine is the anniversary gemstone of 16th and 19th years of marriage.
Aquamarine also has splendid healing abilities. It was long believed that aquamarine soaked in water has excellent therapeutic values for eye troubles. In addition to that it also has curative power with respect to the respiratory diseases and nerve pain. The pale azure of aquamarine brings mental peace and harmony. It endorses the wearer with courage and strengthens his will. For many people aquamarine is an excellent stone for meditation. In addition to all these, aquamarine works against nerve pain, glandular problems, toothache and disorders of the neck, jaw and throat. It strengthens liver and kidneys.
Aquamarine, a blue gem of important beryl family has achieved extensive popularity as birthstone and heeling aids worldwide. For a March-born Piscean or a Scorpion, wearing an aquamarine can create magic. However in order to enhance the charm of luck, one may wear aquamarine as rings, necklaces or earrings or even as bracelets. The jewellery should be fashioned in such a way that light must pass through the stone to the body. That is why the piece should be mounted and open-backed so that it comes into physical contact with the skin.
