Aquamarines, my latest obsession

I have tracked down a supplier of various qualities of aquamarines. I know my reader, who comes here to see my paddling pictures will be like "wha??" But for various reasons I feel like aquamarines are a really appropriate item for a kayaker to both wear and use in design.

Sources say:

The spectacular seawater color of aquamarine has given this gemstone its name.  According to legend, Neptune, the King of the Sea, gave aquamarine as gifts to the mermaids. From that moment on, it has brought love to all who have owned it.  The ancient philosopher Pliny paid tribute to this gem of vitality, stating, “The lovely aquamarine, which seems to have come from some mermaid’s treasure house, in the depths of a summer sea, has charms not to be denied.”

Roman and Greek legend has sailors and travelers carrying aquamarines, or wearing them, to assure safe crossings over the generally hazardous open waters.

The aquamarine is said to "bless young love" and "reawaken love between established couples." (both Roman and Medieval times)
It was often given as a "morning gift" to a bride the morning after a couple's first night together. (Medieval Europe)

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Yeah, well, indeed the milky, blue, green, gray colors remind me of the sea in ways really no other gemstones do. I love working with them. Between aquamarines and labradorites I have found the perfect blend of blues, grays, and soft greens. That is, perfect for me to work with.

Now my dear reader knows what I have been up to when I am not paddling, or rolling, or walking my dogs. I might even escape for some camping or biking this weekend. But eventually, sooner rather than later, I will be back at the work table. Making little baubles that I hope will find a home in the paddling community, where we too would like to safely cross the big waters.