For those born in March, the spring season is heralded with a choice of two distinct and historically significant birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. While modern lists often prioritize aquamarine, both gems boast a rich lore and a long association with the month of March, stemming from ancient traditions and evolving through centuries of cultural beliefs. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these two March birthstones, tracing their journey from ancient legends to modern-day jewelry.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with months of the year dates back to the 1st century AD, with historians attempting to correlate stones mentioned in Biblical texts with the months and zodiac signs. Initially, bloodstone was the sole birthstone for March, a connection rooted in its appearance and the historical context of the month. March is named after Mars, the Roman god of war, a time when Roman soldiers resumed campaigns after winter’s pause. This association with conflict and sacrifice likely contributed to bloodstone’s early symbolism.
Aquamarine, known for centuries as “sea-green beryl,” gained prominence later in the evolution of birthstone lists. By the 1800s, standardized lists began to emerge, with Tiffany & Co. publishing birthstone poems in 1870. The National Association of Jewellers (later Jewellers of America) further solidified the inclusion of aquamarine as an alternative to bloodstone in 1912, a designation that continues today. Consequently, March is unique in having two officially recognized birthstones, often described as the “traditional” bloodstone and the “modern” aquamarine.
Ancient mariners held aquamarine in high regard, believing the gem possessed the power to calm waves and ensure safe passage at sea – a belief reflected in its name, derived from the Latin words aqua (water) and marine (sea). Beyond seafaring protection, aquamarine was also thought to bring happiness in marriage and to bestow protection against foes in battle and legal disputes, fostering amiability and intellectual acuity.
Bloodstone, conversely, carried a different weight of symbolism. Engraved with images of the sun or torches, it was worn by freed slaves as a symbol of liberation. It became known as the “martyr’s stone” due to a Christian legend claiming its origin at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, formed from drops of his blood falling onto the earth. This association led to beliefs in its healing properties, particularly concerning blood circulation. Medieval Europeans utilized bloodstone in elixirs to treat hemorrhages, tumors, and even snake bites, while in India, it was powdered and used as an aphrodisiac.
Geological Formation and Sources
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, a beryllium aluminum silicate with the chemical formula Be3Al2(Si16O18). Beryl crystals typically form in granite pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. The presence of trace elements during the formation process dictates the color variations within the beryl family, with iron contributing to aquamarine’s characteristic blue and green hues. Other beryl varieties include emerald (blue-green to green), goshenite (colorless), morganite (pink to violet), and golden beryl (heliodor). A rare red beryl is also found in Utah.
While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the text indicates that India is a significant source of bloodstone. Aquamarine’s origins are less specifically defined within these materials, but its formation within granite pegmatites suggests a global distribution wherever such geological formations exist.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine exhibits a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for various jewelry applications. It crystallizes in the hexagonal system and possesses an imperfect cleavage. Its luster is vitreous, meaning it has a glassy appearance. Optically, aquamarine is uniaxial negative, and some specimens may exhibit strong dichroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles. Its refractive index ranges from approximately 1.57 to 1.58, or 1.58 to 1.59.
Aquamarine is often transparent and can be found free from inclusions, appearing as clear as water. However, inclusions such as mica, hematite, and liquid-filled tubes can occur. These liquid-filled tubes often contain saltwater and can expand when overheated, potentially causing fractures or, in rare cases, even explosions within the gem.
Bloodstone, in contrast, is typically opaque and exhibits a dark-green color speckled with red spots of iron oxide – the “blood” that gives the stone its name. The provided sources do not detail its hardness or other gemological properties.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of aquamarine:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Be3Al2(Si16O18) |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 - 8 |
| Cleavage | Imperfect |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Refractive Index | 1.57-1.58 / 1.58-1.59 |
| Transparency | Usually Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both aquamarine and bloodstone have been imbued with symbolic meaning throughout history. Aquamarine, with its connection to the sea, represents purity of spirit and soul. It is associated with courage, happiness, and clarity of thought. Its historical association with sailors speaks to its protective qualities, offering safe travels and a calming influence.
Bloodstone, due to its association with sacrifice and martyrdom, symbolizes courage, strength, and vitality. It was believed to heal issues related to blood circulation and was used in various medicinal practices throughout history. Its connection to liberation also represents freedom and resilience.
Care and Cleaning
Aquamarine’s hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale makes it relatively durable, but it is still susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh impacts. Cleaning aquamarine jewelry can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the liquid inclusions within the gem can expand with heat and cause damage.
Specific care instructions for bloodstone are not provided in the sources. However, given its opaque nature and potential for inclusions, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water is recommended.
Conclusion
Aquamarine and bloodstone, the birthstones of March, represent a fascinating blend of history, lore, and geological beauty. While aquamarine has risen to prominence as the modern birthstone, bloodstone retains its significance as a traditional symbol of courage and vitality. Both gems offer a connection to the past, embodying beliefs and traditions that have endured for centuries. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, symbolic meaning, or historical significance, these March birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.