March is a month of transition, marking the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and symbolizing new beginnings, rebirth, and hope. Fittingly, those born in March are offered a diverse selection of birthstones, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the month itself. While aquamarine and bloodstone are the officially recognized birthstones for March, ruby, emerald, jade, and crystal are also associated with this time of year through various historical and astrological traditions. This article will explore the history, lore, gemological properties, and symbolism of these March birthstones, drawing from ancient beliefs to modern interpretations.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with months dates back to antiquity. The ancient Israelite High Priest wore a breastplate adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This practice, detailed in some sources, laid the groundwork for the symbolic connection between gemstones and specific periods. The origins of birthstones also progressed from ancient religious symbolism to magical mysticism in the Middle Ages, with gemstones believed to possess medicinal properties and influence mood and mental health.
March, named after Mars, the Roman god of war, historically signified the resumption of military campaigns after the winter months. This association with a powerful deity may contribute to the strength and courage often attributed to March birthstones. The month also held significance for agricultural practices and festivals celebrating the new year and the spring equinox.
Bloodstone, in particular, boasts a rich and dramatic history. Legend recounts that the gemstone originated at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, formed when drops of his blood fell upon green jasper. This origin story imbued bloodstone with divine powers and made it a revered amulet for centuries. Ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, valued bloodstone for its perceived ability to bring favor, endurance, and protection. It was used by athletes for enhanced performance and by Egyptians in rings depicting the sun god. Even in more recent times, cultures across the Arabian peninsula and among North American first nations carved bloodstone into heart shapes for protection against the evil eye.
Ruby, while often associated with July, holds a special place as a guardian angel birthstone for those born throughout March. Sanskrit texts refer to ruby as ‘ratnaraj’ – the king of precious gemstones – and ‘padmaraga’ – red as a lotus. It was believed to reconcile disagreements and strengthen bonds between loved ones, promoting health, safety, and luck.
Emerald, another alternative March birthstone, was considered sacred by the Atlanteans, representing intelligence, wealth, and service to humanity. It was even favored as an engagement stone, symbolizing fidelity and happiness.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation or specific mining locations of these gemstones. Therefore, this information cannot be included based on the prompt’s restrictions.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine and bloodstone, the primary March birthstones, present contrasting gemological characteristics. Aquamarine exhibits soft, sea-green to sky-blue hues and is typically transparent. Bloodstone, conversely, is opaque and displays a deep forest green color with striking crimson splashes.
The sources do not provide details regarding the chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or other specific gemological properties of these stones. Therefore, a table summarizing these properties cannot be created.
However, the sources do indicate that both aquamarine and bloodstone are considered semi-precious gemstones. Emerald, also mentioned as a March birthstone, is a variety of beryl. Ruby, another alternative, is known for its vibrant red color. Jade, a further option, is derived from either nephrite or jadeite minerals. Crystal, or rock crystal, is a clear and transparent variety of quartz.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with March birthstones is diverse and deeply rooted in cultural beliefs. Bloodstone, due to its legendary origin, has long been attributed with magical and divine powers. It was believed to assure good physical and mental health, strength, courage, and wisdom. It was also thought to double its magical powers when worn by the person for whom it was their birthstone.
Ruby symbolizes love, passion, and courage. It was believed to reconcile disagreements and strengthen relationships. Emerald represents intelligence, wealth, and service to humanity, and was often chosen as an alternative to diamond for engagement rings, promoting fidelity and happiness.
Jade, with its origins in ancient traditions, embodies nine virtues: charity, goodness, virtue, knowledge, skill, morality, divination, rectitude, and harmony. It was used as a talisman against injuries and believed to aid in childbirth. Crystal, or rock crystal, was considered one of the most magical gemstones, often associated with clarity and psychic abilities.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for these gemstones. However, given the varying hardness and composition of the stones, general guidelines for gemstone care would apply. Aquamarine, being a beryl, requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Bloodstone, being opaque, may be more durable but should still be handled with care. Emeralds, being more delicate, require professional cleaning to avoid damage. Rubies and sapphires are relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Jade and crystal should also be cleaned gently with mild soap and water.
Conclusion
March offers a remarkable array of birthstones, each with its unique history, symbolism, and allure. From the vibrant blue of aquamarine to the dramatic crimson splashes of bloodstone, and the alternative options of ruby, emerald, jade, and crystal, those born in March have a wealth of choices to reflect their personality and connect with the rich heritage of these captivating gemstones. The diverse symbolism associated with these stones – encompassing courage, love, wisdom, and health – underscores their enduring appeal and significance throughout history and into the present day. The selection of a March birthstone is a personal journey, allowing individuals to embrace a gem that resonates with their spirit and celebrates the arrival of spring and new beginnings.