AQUAMARINE: THE MERMAID'S STONE
by Pat Antoniak
Having spent the last 3 weeks on an Antiguan beach, I had the opportunity to watch, listen and feel the constant movement of the Caribbean Sea. The water dances with the earth, wind and sky; all elements of nature are present at once. It was during one particularly sunny afternoon that I became mesmerized with the interplay of the sunlight and cresting waves. The colour was remarkable - and then I realized I was looking at true Aquamarine! I then remembered that the Aquamarine crystal is also called The Mermaid's Stone. Now it made perfect sense!
Upon my return home, I looked into the information on Aquamarine . The word is Latin for "Water of the Sea". It is a member of the Beryl family, along with Emerald; it owes its colour to inclusions of iron. It is considered easy to cut and can be found in many unique shapes and jewelry settings. When it is immersed in water, it is practically invisible.
Historically, it has been linked with folklore and superstitions of the sea. It is said to come from the treasure chests of mermaids. Sailors often took Aquamarine with them to sea as a lucky charm to protect against shipwreck or drowning. In ancient times, it was believed to counteract the forces of darkness and procure favour from the spirits of light. Hildegard von Bingen included Aquamarine among her twelve healing stones.
It is considered both a stone of courage and of peace. It has an affinity with sensitive people. Its calming energies reduce stress and quiet the mind. It soothes fears and increases sensitivity. It helps clarify perceptions and clears up confusion. It brings unfinished business to a conclusion, making it useful for closure on all levels. It shields the aura and aligns the chakras. It also is said to align the physical and spiritual energetic bodies.
Physically, it is said to help relieve neck and throat problems. It relaxes the solar plexus and digestive system. It will help quell seasickness. Also said to help reduce skin allergies, if applied as a gem elixer. It is considered to be a general body tonic and helps calm overreactions of the immune system.
Whatever you choose to believe, one thing is for sure: this Crystal is the colour of the sea and is a remembrance of magical times, places and events by the sea. What a joyful gift for all!
Did you know
Here are some descriptions from Doreen Virtue's writings:
- Carvings and paintings of Green Man's face peering through leaves adorn ancient churches throughout western Europe and India. He's regarded as the face of nature and a fertility deity who helps crops grow. Call upon Green Man to help with your garden or to increase your connection to the spirit of nature.
- Maitraya is the familiar image of the smiling and rotund Buddha; his name means the Loving One; call upon him to increase your happiness and joy.
- Freya is a Nordic earth goddess of fertility, celebration and passion; she rides a chariot pulled by mighty cats across the rainbow bridge connecting Heaven and Earth; she teaches us to appreciate our attractiveness and enjoy ourselves; Friday was named in her honor.
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