March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone Gems

Birthstones have been cherished for centuries, often celebrated as a personal talisman that connects us to the month of our birth. For those born in March, there are two captivating birthstones to consider: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Each stone is unique in appearance and symbolism, offering a special meaning to those who wear them. This guide will take you through everything there is to know about these two remarkable stones, starting with the basics and moving on to deeper insights. By the end, you’ll know exactly why these stones are so special and how they can be a meaningful part of your life.

Table of Contents

March Birthstone Aquamarine and Bloodstone Gems

Aspect	Aquamarine	Bloodstone
Color	Light blue to blue-green	Dark green with red spots
Hardness	7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale	6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale
Transparency	Transparent, often clear	Opaque, with a smooth surface
Name Origin	Latin: aqua (water) and marina (sea)	Greek: “heliotrope” meaning sun-turning
Symbolism	Calmness, peace, clarity, and courage	Strength, protection, healing, and grounding
Main Sources	Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, Russia	India, Brazil, Australia, China, United States
Historical Beliefs	Treasure of mermaids, protection for sailors	Blood of Christ, mystical powers, strength in battle
Spiritual Uses	Meditation for calmness, healing for throat issues	Energy boost, protection against negativity
Physical Healing	Supports the immune system, helps with sore throats	Believed to purify the blood, improve circulation
Popular Jewelry Styles	Rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets	Men’s rings, pendants, amulets, beaded bracelets
Best Known For	Beautiful sea-like color, calming properties	Distinctive red spots, grounding energy
Cut and Shape	Often cut into facets to enhance sparkle	Typically cut into cabochons to highlight red spots
Care Instructions	Clean with warm soapy water, avoid harsh chemicals	Clean with soft cloth, avoid harsh cleaners
Associated Month	March	March
Ancient Civilizations	Egyptians, Greeks, Romans	Ancient Greeks, Romans
Emotional Benefits	Encourages clear communication and emotional balance	Provides courage, helps overcome fears
Chemical Composition	Beryllium aluminum silicate	Chalcedony with iron oxide

What is a Birthstone?

Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with each month of the year. They are often worn as jewelry and are believed to bring good luck and protection to the wearer. Let’s explore what birthstones are all about:

Definition: Birthstones are specific gemstones that are connected to a person’s birth month. Each month has one or more stones associated with it.
Historical Significance: The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years. It’s thought to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment mentioned in the Bible that had twelve different stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Choosing Birthstones: Over time, the idea of wearing a stone every month evolved into the tradition of birthstones. People started wearing their birthstone to symbolize their birth month and believed it would bring them good luck and protection.

Aquamarine: The Blue Beauty of March

Aquamarine is the primary birthstone for March, known for its stunning blue color that resembles the clear blue sea. This gemstone is loved by many and carries a serene beauty that is hard to match.

Origins and History of Aquamarine

Name Meaning: Aquamarine comes from the Latin words aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning sea. Its name reflects its beautiful blue color, which looks like the ocean.
Ancient Beliefs: In ancient times, people believed that aquamarine was the treasure of mermaids. It was thought to have the power to keep sailors safe at sea.
Historical Uses: Aquamarine has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valued it for its beauty and believed it had healing properties.

Meaning and Symbolism of Aquamarine

Calmness and Peace: Aquamarine is known as a calming stone. Its soothing blue color is believed to bring peace and relaxation to those who wear it.
Courage and Protection: This stone is also thought to give courage to its wearer, especially to those who travel by sea. People believed that aquamarine could protect them from harm.
Communication: Aquamarine is associated with clear communication. It is said to help people speak their truth and express their thoughts more clearly.

Physical Properties of Aquamarine

Color: Aquamarine ranges from light blue to blue-green. The more intense the blue color, the more valuable the stone is.
Hardness: On the Mohs hardness scale, which measures how hard a mineral is, aquamarine scores between 7.5 and 8. This means it is quite hard and resistant to scratches, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Transparency: Aquamarine is usually clear and transparent. High-quality stones have few or no visible flaws.

Where is Aquamarine Found?

Brazil: The largest and most famous source of aquamarine is Brazil. The stones found here are known for their beautiful blue color.
Other Countries: Aquamarine is also found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and Russia. Each location can produce stones with slightly different colors.

How Aquamarine is Mined and Processed

Mining Locations: Aquamarine is mined from deep within the earth, often from pegmatite deposits, which are rocks that form from cooled magma.
Extraction Process: Miners use various tools and techniques to extract aquamarine from the rock. Once it is extracted, the stone is cleaned and sorted based on quality.
Cutting and Polishing: To bring out its best color and shine, aquamarine is carefully cut and polished by skilled gem cutters. This process enhances the stone’s natural beauty.

Popular Aquamarine Jewelry Styles

Rings: Aquamarine is a popular choice for engagement and statement rings due to its beautiful color and durability.
Pendants: A single aquamarine stone can make a stunning pendant, often paired with white gold or platinum.
Earrings: Aquamarine earrings, whether studs or drop styles, offer a touch of elegance and color.
Bracelets: Beaded aquamarine bracelets or those with set stones add a sophisticated and calming element to any outfit.

Bloodstone: The Dark Companion of March

Aspect	Details
Birthstone	Bloodstone is the second birthstone for March, known for its dark green color with unique red spots. It contrasts with Aquamarine, the other birthstone for March.
Name Meaning	Bloodstone is also called “Heliotrope,” derived from Greek meaning “sun-turning.” Its common name comes from the red spots that resemble drops of blood.
Historical Beliefs	In ancient times, Bloodstone was thought to give its wearer strength and courage in battle. It was considered mystical and powerful.
Cultural Significance	Often used in sculptures and seals, Bloodstone was a symbol of protection and health. It was revered as a powerful talisman in many cultures.
Meaning and Symbolism	– Strength and Courage: Bloodstone’s red spots symbolize sacrifice and bravery, believed to be the blood of Christ.
	– Protection: Worn to shield the wearer from negative energies and danger.
	– Healing: Associated with blood purification and wound healing.
Physical Properties	– Color: Typically dark green with red spots (iron oxide), though some may have yellow or white spots.
	– Hardness: Scores 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable but not as hard as Aquamarine.
	– Texture: A form of chalcedony, Bloodstone is opaque with a smooth, waxy surface.
Main Sources	– India: The most common source, Bloodstone has been used in Indian jewelry and carvings for centuries.
	– Other Countries: Also found in Brazil, Australia, China, and the U.S. The color and appearance may vary slightly by location.
Mining Process	Bloodstone is typically found in riverbeds and gravel deposits, collected by hand or simple tools.
Processing	– Cutting and Shaping: Cut into cabochons (smooth, rounded shapes) to emphasize its unique patterns and red spots.
	– Polishing: Polished to a glossy finish to enhance its natural beauty and make the red spots stand out.
Popular Jewelry Styles	– Men’s Jewelry: Dark color and red spots make it a popular choice for men’s rings, cufflinks, and bracelets.
	– Pendants and Amulets: Often used for its protective qualities, especially when worn near the heart.
	– Beaded Jewelry: Bloodstone beads are used in necklaces and bracelets, often combined with other materials for an earthy, bold look.
Spiritual and Metaphysical	– Energy Boost: Thought to enhance physical vitality and help overcome lethargy.
	– Focus and Balance: Helps maintain emotional equilibrium, especially during stress.
	– Grounding: Bloodstone is considered a grounding stone, connecting the wearer to Earth’s energies and balancing mood swings.
Chakra Association	Linked with the Root Chakra, Bloodstone is believed to stabilize and energize one’s connection to the physical world.
How to Care for Bloodstone	– Cleaning: Clean with mild soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals and extreme heat.
	– Storage: Store separately to avoid scratches, as it’s softer than some other gemstones.
Fun Facts	– Bloodstone was historically used to create powdered elixirs for medicinal purposes.
	– Ancient Egyptians believed it could control weather and was used in rainmaking rituals.

While aquamarine is light and serene, Bloodstone is darker and more mysterious. Bloodstone is the second birthstone for March, known for its deep green color and unique red spots.

Origins and History of Bloodstone

Name Meaning: Bloodstone is also known as heliotrope, which means “sun-turning” in Greek. Its common name comes from the red spots that look like blood.
Historical Beliefs: In ancient times, bloodstone was believed to have mystical powers. It was thought to give its wearer strength and courage, especially in battle.
Cultural Significance: Bloodstone was often used in sculptures and as seals on important documents. It was considered a powerful talisman for protection and health.

Meaning and Symbolism of Bloodstone

Strength and Courage: Bloodstone is known as a stone of strength. Its red spots were believed to be the blood of Christ, making it a symbol of sacrifice and bravery.
Protection: This stone is thought to protect its wearer from negative energies and to keep them safe from harm.
Healing: Bloodstone has long been associated with healing. It was believed to purify the blood and heal wounds.

Physical Properties of Bloodstone

Color: Bloodstone is usually dark green with red spots, which are caused by iron oxide. Some stones may also have yellow or white spots.
Hardness: Bloodstone scores around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is not as hard as aquamarine, but it is still quite durable.
Texture: Bloodstone is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz. It is opaque, meaning you can’t see through it, and has a smooth, almost waxy surface.

Where is Bloodstone Found?

India: Bloodstone is most commonly found in India, where it has been used for centuries in jewelry and carvings.
Other Sources: Bloodstone can also be found in Brazil, Australia, China, and the United States. Stones from different locations may vary slightly in color and appearance.

How Bloodstone is Mined and Processed

Mining Process: Bloodstone is often found in riverbeds and gravel deposits. It is collected by hand or with simple tools.
Cutting and Shaping: Bloodstone is typically cut into cabochons (smooth, rounded shapes) to show off its unique color and patterns. The red spots are the most prized feature.
Polishing: Once shaped, bloodstone is polished to give it a glossy finish. This helps to enhance its natural beauty and make the red spots stand out.

Popular Bloodstone Jewelry Styles

Men’s Jewelry: Bloodstone’s dark color and striking red spots make it a popular choice for men’s rings, cufflinks, and bracelets.
Pendants and Amulets: Bloodstone is often used in pendants and amulets due to its protective properties. Wearing it close to the heart is thought to bring strength and courage.
Beaded Jewelry: Bloodstone beads are commonly used in necklaces and bracelets, often combined with other stones or metals for a bold, earthy look.

Comparing Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aspect	Aquamarine	Bloodstone
Appearance	– Light blue to blue-green, clear, and transparent.	– Dark green with red spots, opaque.
	– Reminiscent of the ocean or a clear sky.	– Looks earthy and mysterious, resembling a forest with drops of blood.
Symbolism and Meaning	– Represents peace, calmness, and courage.	– Symbolizes strength, protection, and healing.
	– Ideal for those seeking tranquility and clear communication.	– Perfect for individuals who desire grounding and security.
Emotional & Spiritual Meaning	– Associated with soothing emotions, calming fears, and promoting honest communication.	– Believed to enhance physical strength, provide protection from negative energies, and support healing.
Chakra Association	– Linked to the Throat Chakra, promoting clear communication and self-expression.	– Associated with the Root Chakra, helping stabilize emotions and connect with Earth’s energies.
Birthstone for March	Yes, one of two birthstones for March.	Yes, the second birthstone for March.
Popularity	– Widely popular in women’s jewelry, often seen in rings, necklaces, and earrings.	– Favored in men’s jewelry and spiritual practices. Popular for its bold, masculine appeal.
Color Symbolism	– The pale blue of Aquamarine is thought to represent calm seas, clear skies, and peaceful vibes.	– The dark green and red of Bloodstone evoke images of nature and sacrifice, symbolizing endurance.
Hardness (Mohs Scale)	– 7.5 to 8, making it a durable gemstone for everyday wear.	– 6.5 to 7, slightly softer but still suitable for many types of jewelry.
Jewelry Usage	– Best known for its delicate color and elegant appearance, often seen in refined, classic designs.	– Popular for rugged, bold styles, often used in men’s rings, amulets, and spiritual jewelry.
Physical and Metaphysical Properties	– Calming properties, promoting inner peace and reducing stress.	– Known for physical strength and energy-boosting properties, aiding in blood purification and vitality.
Metaphysical Healing	– Helps reduce anxiety, brings clarity in communication, and enhances emotional healing.	– Boosts immune system, detoxifies the body, and enhances physical strength.
Where It’s Found	– Brazil, Pakistan, and Madagascar are prominent sources.	– Mainly found in India, with additional sources in Brazil, Australia, and the U.S.

Both aquamarine and bloodstone are significant for those born in March, but they offer different looks and meanings. Here’s a closer look at how they compare:

Differences in Appearance and Color

Aquamarine: Light blue to blue-green, clear and transparent. Reminds you of the ocean or a clear sky.
Bloodstone: Dark green with red spots, opaque. Looks more like a forest with drops of blood, giving it a mysterious and earthy appearance.

Differences in Meaning and Symbolism

Aquamarine: Symbolizes peace, calmness, and courage. Ideal for those who seek tranquility and clear communication.
Bloodstone: Represents strength, protection, and healing. Perfect for those who want to feel grounded and secure.

Differences in Popularity and Usage

Aquamarine: Widely used in women’s jewelry, especially in rings, necklaces, and earrings. It’s a favorite for its delicate color and elegant look.
Bloodstone: More popular in men’s jewelry and in spiritual or healing contexts. Its dark color and bold red spots give it a rugged and powerful look.

Caring for Your March Birthstones

Aspect	Aquamarine	Bloodstone
Cleaning	– Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush for cleaning.	– Clean with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap.
	– Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.	– Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that could harm the stone.
	– Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.	– Store in a soft pouch or separate compartment due to its lower hardness.
	– Store separately from other pieces to avoid scratches.	– Avoid dropping or knocking it against hard surfaces.
Storage and Maintenance	– Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.	– Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
	– Regularly check jewelry settings to ensure stones are secure.	– Regularly check jewelry settings to ensure stones are secure.
	– Have your jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned as needed.	– Have your jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned as needed.
	– Store in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage.	– Store in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage.
Additional Care Tips	– Avoid exposing aquamarine to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.	– Be mindful of the stone’s softer nature; avoid exposing it to hard impacts.
	– Check for any loose settings periodically to prevent loss.	– Consider periodic professional cleaning to maintain its appearance and value.
Handling Precautions	– Wear aquamarine jewelry after applying makeup or hairspray to avoid residue buildup.	– Handle bloodstone with care to prevent scratches and damage from rough handling.

To keep your aquamarine and bloodstone jewelry looking beautiful, it’s important to care for them properly. Here’s how:

Tips for Cleaning Aquamarine Jewelry

Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to clean your aquamarine.
Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Store aquamarine jewelry separately from other pieces to avoid scratches.

Tips for Cleaning Bloodstone Jewelry

Clean bloodstone with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap.
Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaners that could damage the stone.
Given its lower hardness, store bloodstone in a soft pouch or separate compartment.
Avoid dropping bloodstone or knocking it against hard surfaces.

Storage and Maintenance Advice

Keep both stones away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Regularly check your jewelry settings to ensure stones are secure.
Have your jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned as needed.
Store aquamarine and bloodstone in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage.

Using March Birthstones for Healing and Spiritual Purposes

Aspect	Aquamarine	Bloodstone
Meditation	– Used to bring calmness and clarity during meditation.	– Enhances physical energy and strength, useful for meditation focused on vitality and endurance.
	– Holding or wearing it can help reduce stress and promote a peaceful state.	– Helps in meditative practices aimed at overcoming fatigue and boosting energy levels.
Healing Properties	– Believed to aid in throat issues such as sore throats and swollen glands.	– Associated with improving circulation and detoxifying the body.
	– Supports the immune system, enhancing overall health.	– Thought to help cleanse the blood and support overall health.
Emotional Balance	– Promotes clear communication and emotional balance.	– Provides grounding effects, helping people feel connected to the earth and protecting against negative energies.
	– Known to help people express their feelings and thoughts more clearly.	– Aids in achieving emotional stability and balancing emotions.
Grounding and Protection	– Not typically associated with grounding, but helps in achieving emotional clarity which indirectly supports grounding.	– Known for its grounding effects, connecting individuals to the earth.
	– Primarily focused on emotional and mental healing.	– Provides protection against negative energies and influences.
Health Benefits	– Supports throat health and immune function.	– Assists in detoxifying the body and improving circulation.
	– Useful in relieving physical discomforts related to throat and respiratory issues.	– Enhances overall health and well-being through its cleansing properties.

March birthstones are not only beautiful but are also used for healing and spiritual purposes. Here’s how people use them beyond just wearing them as jewelry:

Aquamarine’s Healing and Spiritual Uses

Meditation: Aquamarine is often used in meditation to bring calmness and clarity. Holding or wearing aquamarine can help people feel peaceful and reduce stress.
Healing Properties: It is believed to help with throat issues, such as sore throats or swollen glands. It is also thought to support the immune system.
Emotional Balance: Aquamarine is known to help people express their feelings and thoughts more clearly, promoting better communication and emotional balance.

Bloodstone’s Healing and Spiritual Uses

Energy Boost: Bloodstone is used to boost physical energy and strength. It is thought to help overcome fatigue and enhance endurance.
Grounding and Protection: This stone is known for its grounding effects, helping people feel more connected to the earth. It is also believed to protect against negative energies and influences.
Health Benefits: Bloodstone is associated with improving circulation and detoxifying the body. It is thought to help cleanse the blood and support overall health.

Selecting the Perfect March Birthstone for You

Aspect	Aquamarine	Bloodstone
Personal Taste	– Light and delicate colors, often light blue to blue-green.	– Dark and bold shades, typically dark green with red spots.
	– Suits those who prefer a serene and elegant appearance.	– Appeals to those who favor a rugged, earthy look.
Symbolism	– Represents peace, calmness, and courage.	– Symbolizes strength, protection, and healing.
	– Ideal for those seeking tranquility and clear communication.	– Suitable for those looking for grounding and spiritual support.
Usage	– Durable for everyday jewelry due to its hardness.	– Grounding properties make it ideal for spiritual and healing uses.
	– Preferred for rings, necklaces, and earrings.	– Often used in amulets and healing crystals.
How to Buy Authentic Stones	– Buy from Reputable Jewelers: Purchase from trusted and reputable sources for quality assurance.	– Buy from Reputable Jewelers: Ensure the jeweler is well-regarded and provides accurate information.
	– Look for Certification: Seek gemstones with certificates confirming their quality and authenticity.	– Look for Certification: Check for certificates of authenticity for quality assurance.
	– Inspect the Stone: Check for clarity and brightness. High-quality aquamarine should be clear and vibrant.	– Inspect the Stone: Look for distinct red spots on a dark green background.
	– Ask Questions: Inquire about the stone’s history, care, and authenticity.	– Ask Questions: Discuss the stone’s origin, care, and authenticity with the jeweler.

Choosing between aquamarine and bloodstone depends on personal preference and what you want the stone to represent. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Personal Taste: Do you prefer light and delicate colors, or are you drawn to dark and bold shades? Your taste in colors can help you decide between aquamarine and bloodstone.
Symbolism: Consider what qualities you want to embrace. If you’re seeking peace and calmness, aquamarine may be the right choice. If you’re looking for strength and protection, bloodstone might be more suitable.
Usage: Think about how you plan to use the stone. For everyday jewelry, aquamarine’s hardness makes it more durable. Bloodstone’s grounding properties may be preferred for healing and spiritual use.

How to Buy Authentic March Birthstones

Buy from Reputable Jewelers: Always purchase from trusted and reputable jewelers who can provide information about the stone’s origin and quality.
Look for Certification: Authentic gemstones often come with a certificate of authenticity that confirms their quality and source.
Inspect the Stone: Look closely at the stone’s color, clarity, and cut. High-quality aquamarine should be clear and bright, while good bloodstone will have distinct red spots on a dark green background.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the jeweler questions about the stone’s history, care, and authenticity. A knowledgeable jeweler will be able to provide this information.

Conclusion

March birthstones, aquamarine and bloodstone, offer unique and meaningful options for those born in this month. Whether you are drawn to the calming blue hues of aquamarine or the powerful presence of bloodstone, these stones provide more than just beauty. They carry history, symbolism, and healing properties that have been cherished for centuries. By understanding their origins, meanings, and how to care for them, you can enjoy these birthstones to the fullest.

FAQs

What are the two birthstones for March?
The two birthstones for March are aquamarine, which is light blue, and bloodstone, which is dark green with red spots.
What is the main difference between aquamarine and bloodstone?
Aquamarine is known for its light blue, ocean-like color and represents calmness and clarity. Bloodstone is dark green with red spots and symbolizes strength and protection.
Can I wear both aquamarine and bloodstone together?
Yes, you can wear both stones together. They can complement each other’s colors and meanings, providing both calmness and strength.
How do I clean my aquamarine jewelry?
Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to gently clean aquamarine jewelry. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Is bloodstone only used in men’s jewelry?
No, bloodstone can be used in both men’s and women’s jewelry. Its deep color makes it popular in men’s accessories, but it’s also used in necklaces, bracelets, and rings for everyone.
Why is aquamarine considered a calming stone?
Aquamarine’s light blue color is associated with the sea and sky, which are often seen as calming and peaceful. It is believed to help reduce stress and bring clarity.
What are the red spots in bloodstone?
The red spots in bloodstone are caused by iron oxide, which looks like drops of blood. These spots are what give the stone its name and symbolic meaning.
Can bloodstone help with healing?
Bloodstone is believed to have healing properties, especially for purifying the blood and boosting physical energy. It is also thought to provide protection and grounding.
Where is the best place to buy aquamarine and bloodstone?
Purchase these stones from reputable jewelers who can provide certificates of authenticity and detailed information about the stones.
How should I store my March birthstones?
Store aquamarine and bloodstone jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use soft pouches or separate compartments to prevent scratching and damage.