The month of March, traditionally associated with the Roman god of war, Mars, and the arrival of spring, boasts a fascinating array of birthstones. While aquamarine and bloodstone are the officially recognized gems for March, a rich history and evolving traditions reveal several other stones linked to this time of year, including jade and jasper. These gemstones, each with unique properties and lore, offer a diverse selection for those born in March, reflecting the month’s transition from winter’s intensity to the promise of renewal. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, and symbolism of these March birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the significance of these captivating gems.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with origins in the biblical breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, different cultures developed their own correspondences, leading to variations in birthstone lists. The modern birthstone chart, as it exists today, is largely a result of 19th and 20th-century standardization by jewelers.
March, named after the Roman god of war, originally saw heliotrope (bloodstone) as its primary birthstone. This connection to Mars reflects the time of year when Roman soldiers would resume campaigns after the winter months. The month also marked a return to farming and travel, coinciding with the spring equinox and various festivals celebrating both Mars and the new year.
Aquamarine gained prominence as a March birthstone more recently, becoming widely accepted as a modern alternative. Its name, derived from the Latin “aqua marinus” meaning “water from the sea,” speaks to its captivating color and historical association with sailors. Belief held that aquamarine would protect those at sea, guaranteeing a safe voyage.
Jade, rooted in ancient Tibetan astrology, is presented as a mystical alternative for March, capturing the sweetness of spring with the durability associated with Mars. Jasper, a variety of chalcedony, is also noted as an alternative, offering a wider range of colors and patterns.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine, a member of the beryl family, forms in pegmatite veins – coarse-grained igneous rocks rich in rare elements. The presence of iron within the beryl’s chemical structure is responsible for its characteristic blue and greenish-blue hues. Significant deposits of aquamarine are found in Brazil, but it is also mined in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and Mozambique.
Bloodstone, a dark-green jasper flecked with vivid red spots, owes its color to iron oxide inclusions. It is typically found embedded in rocks or as pebbles in riverbeds. Primary sources for bloodstone include India, Australia, Brazil, the United States, and Madagascar. The red spots are said to represent the blood of Christ, leading to its association with martyrdom and healing.
Jade, unlike aquamarine and bloodstone, can refer to two distinct minerals: nephrite and jadeite. Nephrite, composed of calcium and magnesium, is more common, while jadeite, an aluminum and sodium silicate, is rarer and generally more valuable. Both are formed through metamorphic processes. Jade is primarily sourced from China and the Pacific Rim region.
Jasper, a variety of chalcedony, is formed through the deposition of silica in volcanic and sedimentary environments. It exhibits a wide range of colors and patterns due to the presence of various mineral inclusions. Jasper is found in numerous locations worldwide, including India, Russia, Egypt, Madagascar, Brazil, Venezuela, and Australia.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine, with a chemical formula of Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈, possesses a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it relatively durable for jewelry use. It typically exhibits a transparent clarity and ranges in color from pale blue to blue-green, with larger stones often displaying more intense coloration.
Bloodstone, a combination of jasper and chalcedony, is generally opaque and displays a dark-green base color with crimson splashes. Its hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. The red spots are due to iron oxide inclusions.
Jade, whether nephrite or jadeite, is known for its toughness rather than its hardness. Nephrite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, while jadeite ranges from 6.5 to 7. Jade is commonly found in shades of green, but can also occur in purple, lavender, creamy white, black, and brown.
Jasper, a chalcedony mineral, has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. It is typically opaque and exhibits a wide variety of colors and patterns, including brown, clay, red-brown, and speckled combinations. Specimens colored only yellow are sometimes referred to as Plasma.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Mineral Type | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquamarine | Beryl | Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈ | 7.5 - 8 | Aqua, pale green, pale blue | Transparent |
| Bloodstone | Jasper & Chalcedony | N/A | 6.5 - 7 | Dark green with red spots | Opaque |
| Jade | Nephrite/Jadeite | Varies | 6 - 7 | Green, purple, lavender, white, black | Typically opaque |
| Jasper | Chalcedony | SiO₂ | 6.5 - 7 | Brown, red-brown, speckled | Opaque |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these March birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Aquamarine is associated with purity, good luck, and overcoming fear of speaking, believed to enhance clarity and truthfulness. It was thought that pale blue aquamarine could lure back a lost lover, while greenish-blue aquamarine aided long-distance travelers.
Bloodstone has a long-standing reputation for promoting health and longevity, and for bringing respect to the wearer. It was believed to possess healing powers, particularly for blood disorders, and was sometimes called the “martyr’s stone” due to the legend of its creation at the foot of the cross. It is also thought to promote mental clarity and boost the immune system.
Jade is considered a stone of spiritual access, offering mental clarity and protective qualities. Ancient cultures used carved jade charms as talismans, believing it increased love and nurturing.
Jasper, often referred to as the “Supreme Nurturer,” is believed to balance yin and yang energies, promoting tranquility and resilience in stressful situations. It was historically used to increase fertility and is thought to provide emotional protection.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness levels, these March birthstones require different care approaches. Aquamarine, with its relatively high hardness, is durable enough for everyday wear. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Bloodstone, being slightly softer, is more susceptible to scratches. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended. Avoid abrasive cleaners and prolonged exposure to heat.
Jade, while tough, can be chipped or fractured. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Jasper, similar to bloodstone, requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
The March birthstones – aquamarine, bloodstone, jade, and jasper – represent a diverse and fascinating collection of gems, each with a unique history, geological origin, and symbolic meaning. From the protective qualities of aquamarine for sailors to the healing properties attributed to bloodstone and the spiritual significance of jade and jasper, these stones offer a rich tapestry of lore and beauty. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, astrological significance, or perceived metaphysical benefits, these gems continue to captivate and inspire those born under the sign of March.