The month of March boasts two recognized birthstones: bloodstone and aquamarine. While aquamarine is celebrated for its clarity and beauty, bloodstone, a variety of chalcedony, holds a unique historical and metaphysical significance. Both stones have recently found a creative outlet beyond jewelry, inspiring fabric collections and quilting projects that capture their essence. This article will explore the history, properties, and modern artistic interpretations of these March birthstones, drawing solely from the provided sources.
History and Lore
Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, carries a rich history steeped in ancient beliefs. Its name, heliotrope, originates from the ancient Greek word meaning “to turn the sun,” reflecting a belief that the stone could alter the sun’s appearance when placed in water. Some historical accounts suggest the stone was believed to have the power to control the sun, while others connected its red inclusions to the blood of Christ, giving rise to its common name. These beliefs imbued bloodstone with properties of strength, invisibility, and health preservation. Even in modern times, particularly in India, the stone has been utilized in traditional medicine, ground into a powder and used as an aphrodisiac.
Aquamarine also possesses a long and storied past. It is traditionally gifted to couples celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary. A notable example of its historical significance is the large aquamarine presented to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by the Brazilian government in 1936. This dark blue, rectangular step-cut stone weighed 1,298 carats and remains a prominent exhibit at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. The Dom Pedro Aquamarine, a massive 10,363-carat obelisk, is another celebrated specimen housed at the Smithsonian Institution, showcasing the artistry of fantasy cutting techniques.
Geological Formation and Sources
Bloodstone is a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, specifically a dark green jasper containing red inclusions of iron oxides, most notably hematite. The sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in its formation, but it is noted as a variety of chalcedony.
Aquamarine is found in both primary (hard rock) and secondary (weathered) pegmatite deposits. The Brazilian state of Minas Gerais has been a significant source of aquamarine for over two centuries. The region’s landscape, characterized by rocky hills, rivers, and scrub brush, holds these gem deposits. The gem center of Teófilo Otoni is specifically mentioned as a key location within Minas Gerais.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources offer limited detail regarding the full spectrum of gemological properties. Bloodstone is described as semi-translucent to opaque, dark green with red inclusions. It is typically cut as a cabochon, although faceted examples do exist. Aquamarine is noted for its clarity and is often faceted, as demonstrated by the impressive Dom Pedro Aquamarine. The Eleanor Roosevelt aquamarine was described as a dark blue, rectangular step cut. Further details regarding hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition are not provided within these sources.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Bloodstone has been associated with a range of metaphysical properties throughout history. Beyond its perceived ability to influence the sun, it was believed to increase strength, grant invisibility, and promote overall health and youth. In contemporary times, it is often considered a lucky charm, particularly favored by athletes seeking to enhance their physical prowess.
Aquamarine, while not explicitly detailed in terms of metaphysical properties, is recognized as a traditional gift for 19th wedding anniversaries, suggesting a symbolism of enduring love and commitment.
Artistic Interpretations: Fabric and Quilting
Recently, both bloodstone and aquamarine have inspired artistic endeavors in the realm of fabric design and quilting. The “Birthstone Series” fabric collection, designed with Paintbrush Studio’s Painter’s Palette Solids, specifically aims to capture the colors of various gemstones, including aquamarine, citrine, and watermelon tourmaline. Jennifer Sampou’s SKY collection, featuring ombre designs, is also cited as a source of inspiration for replicating the hues of gemstones like aquamarines and sapphires.
These fabrics are being utilized in quilting projects, as evidenced by the creation of “Jewel Box” quilt, constructed using freezer paper piecing techniques. This technique, detailed in the book Gemstone Quilts: Creating Fire & Brilliance In Fabric, involves using freezer paper as a template to create intricate designs reminiscent of gemstone facets. The book emphasizes the importance of cut, color, and clarity – mirroring the “4 C’s” of diamond grading – to achieve a sparkling effect in fabric quilts. The use of gradients, such as those found in Moda Fabrics’ Gradients Kaleidoscope print, further enhances the complexity and visual appeal of these gemstone-inspired quilts.
A garnet fabric collection was also mentioned in relation to a contest, demonstrating the broader trend of birthstones influencing fabric design.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for either bloodstone or aquamarine. However, given that bloodstone is typically cut as a cabochon and aquamarine is often faceted, general gemstone care guidelines would apply. These include avoiding harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is generally recommended.
Freezer Paper Piecing Technique
The book Gemstone Quilts: Creating Fire & Brilliance In Fabric details a specific quilting technique utilizing freezer paper. This is not traditional foundation paper piecing, but rather a method where freezer paper acts as a template, adhering to fabric when ironed. The technique involves segmenting designs into facets (blocks), using a simple coding system for piecing, and carefully selecting fabrics to create luminosity and contrast.
Table of March Birthstones
| Birthstone | Description | Historical Significance | Modern Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloodstone | Dark green jasper with red inclusions of hematite | Believed to control the sun, promote strength and health | Lucky charm, used in traditional medicine |
| Aquamarine | Blue to blue-green beryl | Gift for 19th wedding anniversaries | Prized for its clarity and beauty, featured in museum collections |
Conclusion
Both bloodstone and aquamarine, the birthstones of March, possess a captivating blend of history, lore, and aesthetic appeal. While bloodstone carries a legacy of ancient beliefs and metaphysical properties, aquamarine is celebrated for its clarity and association with enduring love. The recent emergence of these gemstones as inspiration for fabric design and quilting projects demonstrates their enduring influence on artistic expression, allowing enthusiasts to capture their brilliance and beauty in a new and creative medium. The techniques described, such as freezer paper piecing, offer quilters a pathway to recreate the intricate facets and vibrant colors of these cherished March birthstones.