March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone 

March’s birthstones, the Aquamarine and Bloodstone, are both unique and captivating in their own ways. The two March birthstones are complete opposites in looks, but both are an absolute necessity for people born in March. Aquamarine is a beautiful blue gemstone that invokes the images of crystal clear waters, while Bloodstone is an opaque green stone with bright, red spots that contrast the muted background. Their meanings, history, and uses are as unique and contrasting as the stones themselves, making for a good bit of trivia.

 

Key Takeaways

• Aquamarine, the modern birthstone for March, symbolizes purity, calmness, and health, while historically serving as a protective talisman for sailors.

• Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is associated with health and strength and has rich historical significance tied to various cultural beliefs.

• Both March gemstones have distinct looks and compositions that make them ideal for different types of jewelry and settings.

 

Aquamarine Birthstone Overview

Aquamarine, the modern birthstone of March, is a gem that captures the essence of the sea. Its name, derived from the Latin words for water and sea, reflects its mesmerizing blue hue. This stone symbolizes purity and calmness, making it a perfect representation of the serene waters it resembles.

 

Symbolism and History

Aquamarine’s symbolism is rich and multifaceted, often representing:

• purity of spirit and soul

• everlasting youth

• hope

• luck

For centuries, aquamarine was believed to soothe issues between couples, bringing joy and happiness to their unions.

Historically, ancient mariners revered aquamarine, believing it could calm turbulent waters and ensure safe passage. This belief was so strong that sailors often carried aquamarine amulets to protect them during their sea voyages. The stone’s calming influence was thought to extend beyond the seas, providing a sense of peace and protection to its wearer.

Derived from the Latin words “aqua” (water) and “marina” (sea), the name aquamarine perfectly captures the stone’s essence. Over the centuries, aquamarine has been a symbol of enduring youth and unwavering hope, making it a cherished stone across different cultures and eras.

 

Notable Aquamarines

Among the most famous Aquamarines is the Dom Pedro aquamarine, recognized as the largest faceted Aquamarine in the world. Weighing an astounding 10,363 carats, this remarkable stone showcases the beauty and grandeur of Aquamarine. This single piece of aquamarine stands almost 14 inches tall and is on display at the Smithsonian Institution.

Another notable gem is the Aquamarine given to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by the Brazilian government in 1936, weighing 1,298 carats, while her and her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, were on a “good neighbor” tour to the countries of South America. At the time it was the largest cut aquamarine in the world. You can now see this gorgeous piece of history at the Hyde Park Museum in New York. These historical pieces highlight Aquamarine’s significance and its place in both culture and history.

 

Sources of Aquamarine

 

Aquamarine is sourced from various parts of the world, with major deposits found in Brazil, Pakistan, and many African countries. These regions are renowned for producing high-quality Aquamarine crystals, each with its unique characteristics and beauty.

 

Major Deposits

Brazil, especially the Minas Gerais region, is renowned for its large, high-quality Aquamarine crystals. Its rich geological landscape makes it a premier source of this gemstone. Meanwhile, Pakistan is known for its deep, richly colored Aquamarine stones, often found in the more mountainous terrains.

In Africa, countries such as Mozambique and Nigeria have become significant producers of Aquamarine. These regions are known for their strong color saturations, making African Aquamarines particularly sought after by gem enthusiasts and jewelers alike.

 

What is an Aquamarine?

Aquamarine is in the beryl family and closely related to other gemstones like emerald and morganite. It is formed in hydrothermal vents and other places where hot, mineral-rich solutions move through the crust of the Earth. Aquamarines typically take millions of years to form, as they require specific conditions in order to create their distinctive shape. 

 

Aquamarine Birthstone Care and Cleaning

Proper care is crucial to maintaining the beauty and luster of Aquamarine jewelry. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning are generally safe for Aquamarine jewelry, provided the stone has no noticeable inclusions or fractures.

Avoid exposing Aquamarine to harsh chemicals and rinse thoroughly after aquamarine birthstone care cleaning to preserve its brilliance.

 

Daily Wear and Durability

Aquamarine’s hardness on the Mohs scale is 7.5 to 8, making it resilient but not as hard as traditional engagement stones. Its durability makes Aquamarine suitable for everyday jewelry like rings, necklaces, and earrings. Although it can withstand daily wear, handle it with care to avoid scratches and impacts. 

Aquamarine jewelry should always be stored in a soft place where other jewelry is unlikely to rub against it. Its relative hardness should be able to withstand scratches and damage, but it is better to be cautious than to try and repair a damaged stone.

 

Cleaning Methods

Clean Aquamarine jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaning is effective if the stone is undamaged. If you are unsure about the status of your Aquamarine jewelry, taking it to a professional jeweler to get inspected and cleaned is the best option.

It is important to avoid heat exposure during cleaning to avoid any possible inclusions from causing damage to the stone.

 

Aquamarine in Jewelry

 

 

Its vibrant colors and durability make Aquamarine a favorite in jewelry. This gemstone is commonly used in rings, necklaces, and earrings, often undergoing heat treatment to enhance its color.

Aquamarine’s Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8 ensures it can be worn regularly without significant damage risk, making it a practical choice.

 

Popular Cuts and Styles

Common shapes for Aquamarine include round, oval, and emerald cuts. The emerald cut is particularly favored for emphasizing the stone’s depth and rich color saturation. Known as the rectangular step-cut aquamarine, it enhances Aquamarine’s clarity and showcases its beautiful blue hues.

 

Value and Rarity

Factors like hue, tone, and saturation determine Aquamarine’s value. Deeper hues command higher prices, and eye-clean stones are more valuable than those with noticeable liquid inclusions.

Color saturation and clarity significantly influence the overall quality and market price of Aquamarine gemstones.

 

Bloodstone Birthstone Overview

Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is known for its unique dark green color speckled with red spots. This stone has been historically used as a charm for protection and is believed to enhance strength and health.

Bloodstone’s distinct appearance and metaphysical properties make it a popular choice in jewelry and talismans.

 

Symbolism and History

Bloodstone’s symbolism is deeply rooted in history and believed to represent health and strength.  It is said that the first bloodstone was made when the blood of Jesus Christ dripped down off the cross and stained the stone below. This connection gives Bloodstone protective and healing powers, making it revered across various cultures. 

In ancient Greece, people believed that Bloodstone could turn the sun red when submerged in water. These beliefs underscore the stone’s mystical allure and its significance in ancient traditions.

Currently, the bloodstone is believed to be able to physically heal ailments originating in the blood and bone marrow while also being able to offer emotional resilience and strength just by keeping it nearby. It is believed to be a naturally protective stone that shields its wearer from negative energy and grounds them by giving them a sense of security.

 

Common Uses

Bloodstone is commonly used in jewelry, crafted into cabochon beads, pendants, and necklaces. Its striking dark green hue with red spots makes it a visually appealing choice for various jewelry designs. The stone is also favored for rings, pendants, and earrings due to its durability and unique appearance.

Demand for Bloodstone jewelry remains strong, driven by its historical significance and aesthetic appeal. Antique Bloodstone pieces are particularly valued for their rarity and historical importance. This enduring interest underscores Bloodstone’s timeless charm and cultural relevance.

 

Sources of Bloodstone

India is the primary source of Bloodstone and is recognized as the leading producer of this gemstone. Additional sources include Brazil, Australia, and the United States. These regions contribute to the global supply, each offering Bloodstone with distinctive qualities.

 

Primary Locations

India stands out as the main production area for Bloodstone, which is renowned for its high-quality stones. This country’s rich geological landscape has made it the foremost source of Bloodstone, supplying the majority of the world’s demand for this unique gemstone.

 

What is a Bloodstone?

Bloodstones are primarily made of silica, which is the same mineral that forms quartz. The dark green hue is mainly caused by iron deposits which can cause it to range anywhere from a dark forest green to a lighter mossy green. The real stars are the vibrant red spots that give the stone its name. These red spots are made of hematite and give it a blood-splattered look. 

 

Bloodstones are typically found in places with volcanic or metamorphic activity, which allows the proper conditions for these gemstones to form. Each location gives unique characteristics based on the materials present at formation. 

 

Bloodstone Birthstone Care and Cleaning

To maintain the beauty and integrity of Bloodstone jewelry, proper care and cleaning are essential. Bloodstones rank around 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, which means they are prone to damage if not cared for properly.  

 

Proper Storage

Bloodstone should be stored in a soft fabric without other pieces to protect it from scratches and other damage. Careful storage preserves the stone’s surface and quality, ensuring it remains cherished for years.

 

Cleaning Techniques

Clean Bloodstone with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Dry the stone immediately with a clean, soft cloth after cleaning to prevent rusting due to its iron oxide content. For optimal maintenance, consider talking to an experienced jeweler to discuss any concerns.

Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures during cleaning to maintain the stone’s integrity.

 

Bloodstone in Jewelry

Bloodstone’s unique dark green color with red spots makes it a striking jewelry choice. It is often crafted into amulets, rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also valued for its metaphysical properties, believed to increase strength, provide protection, and preserve health and youth.

Its aesthetic and symbolic appeal make Bloodstone a sought-after addition to any jewelry collection. Bloodstones are typically cut into cabochons (a rounded cut, without facets) because of their opaque nature. 

 

Design and Aesthetics

Its dark green hue with red spots makes Bloodstone a visually striking choice for various jewelry designs. Historically, it has been used in jewelry and for carving cameos and seals. Its durability and unique appearance make it a favorite for crafting protective amulets, often worn by athletes and soldiers.

 

Market Demand

Demand for Bloodstone jewelry fluctuates with fashion trends and cultural influences. Its unique aesthetic qualities and historical significance contribute to its popularity. Consumer preferences, shaped by perceived rarity and metaphysical properties, continue to drive demand for Bloodstone.

With growing interest in alternative gemstones, Bloodstone is experiencing renewed attention in the jewelry market.

 

Summary

Aquamarine and Bloodstone, the March birthstones, each bring unique charm and historical significance. Aquamarine, symbolizing purity and calmness, has been cherished for centuries for its beauty and believed protective benefits for sailors and its soothing influence on relationships. Bloodstone, with its distinct dark green and red spotted appearance, has been revered for its strength-enhancing and protective properties, often used in jewelry and talismans.

Understanding these gemstones' symbolism, history, sources, and care enriches their appreciation. Whether you are drawn to the serene blue hues of Aquamarine or the striking contrasts of Bloodstone, these gems offer a connection to the past and a timeless beauty that continues to captivate. As March birthstones, they hold a special place in the hearts of those born in this month, symbolizing their unique characteristics and the changing seasons.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the March birthstones?

The March birthstones are Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Each possesses unique qualities and beauty, making them significant for those born in this month.

 

What does Aquamarine symbolize?

Aquamarine symbolizes purity, youth, hope, health, and calmness, making it a powerful stone for emotional and physical well-being. Its serene qualities are often associated with tranquility and clarity.

 

How should I care for my Aquamarine jewelry?

To care for your Aquamarine jewelry, clean it regularly with warm soapy water and a soft, clean toothbrush. This method will help maintain its brilliance and clarity.

 

Where is Bloodstone primarily found?

Bloodstone is primarily found in India, with notable sources also located in Brazil, Australia, China, and the United States.

 

What are the metaphysical properties of Bloodstone?

Bloodstone is known to enhance strength, promote health, and offer protection, making it a powerful stone for those seeking physical and emotional resilience.