The double reference to blue in the name of this stone is no accident. Because of its lovely blue color aquamarine is most often associated with the sea. Because of this many of the myths and legends associated with the stone have to do with water. The ancient Greeks believed that aquamarine could protect sailors from disasters at sea. Archaeologists often find the stone carved into small statues of the god Poseidon but there is much evidence that through the ages sailors of many cultures and time periods wore aquamarine or slept with it under their pillow.

The Greeks were not the only culture to prize aquamarine for their sailors. In Thailand it was believed that wearing the stone could not only keep seasickness from over taking you but that it could save you from drowning. Some stories, which began in ancient Babylon and spread across what it now the Middle East and Europe, associate aquamarine with mermaids. In some tales the stone is a particular treasure for the fishy maidens. In other stories the mermaid’s tails either create or are made of aquamarine.

Ancient doctors believed that a tonic created by dropping a piece of aquamarine into a cup of water could reverse the ill effects of poison. The stone was also thought to be particularly potent against ailments of the throat, stomach, and liver. Since earliest times the stone was thought to sooth anxiety when worn.

In New Age traditions aquamarine symbolizes security and safety, which makes it a popular gift for loved ones. It is supposed to be soothing to sensitive people and promote non-judgmental interactions and peace.