March, the first month of spring and a time of rebirth and renewal, is symbolically represented by two distinct yet equally rich gemstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. These stones, though differing in appearance and composition, share a common thread of historical significance, protective symbolism, and enduring appeal in the world of gemology. As the birthstones of March, both aquamarine and bloodstone have been cherished for centuries, each with its own unique lore, geological properties, and cultural associations.
This article delves into the fascinating world of these two March birthstones. We explore their origins, their gemological properties, their roles in history and mythology, and their modern-day relevance in jewelry and symbolism. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a student of gemology, or simply curious about the meaning behind these stones, this guide offers a comprehensive look at what makes aquamarine and bloodstone so special.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with early records tracing their origins to the 1st century AD, when ancient historians linked the 12 gemstones of the High Priest’s Breastplate from the Bible to the 12 months of the year and the 12 zodiac signs. This early system, however, was not standardized, and many of the stones and their associations remain debated due to the lack of precise identification methods at the time.
For March, the bloodstone was the original and sole birthstone in many early records. It was known in antiquity for its supposed healing and protective properties, and its vivid red flecks were believed to represent the blood of Christ or the vitality of life. The stone was worn by warriors and travelers for courage and strength, and it was also used in amulets to ward off illness and misfortune.
It wasn’t until the 1800s that aquamarine was added to the list of March’s birthstones. This shift is often attributed to the growing availability of aquamarine and the increasing popularity of standardized birthstone lists, particularly through the influence of jewelers in Europe. One of the earliest and most influential publications was by Tiffany & Co. in 1870, which featured birthstone poems and helped popularize the idea of wearing a birthstone to celebrate one’s birthday or anniversary.
While aquamarine was not always the traditional March birthstone, its inclusion reflects the evolving nature of gemstone traditions over time. Today, both aquamarine and bloodstone are officially recognized as the two birthstones for March, with aquamarine also symbolizing the 19th wedding anniversary and bloodstone representing the 14th.
The dual nature of March’s birthstones also reflects the month’s symbolic duality: a time of both war (as the month was named after Mars, the Roman god of war) and new beginnings (with the arrival of spring and the vernal equinox). This duality is mirrored in the contrasting properties and appearances of aquamarine and bloodstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Both aquamarine and bloodstone are formed through distinct geological processes and are found in specific regions around the world.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, a mineral species that includes emerald (green), heliodor (yellow), and morganite (pink). Its characteristic blue or blue-green color is due to the presence of iron (Fe) within the beryl crystal structure. In its pure form, beryl is colorless, but trace elements of iron or other metals create the different hues seen in its various varieties.
Aquamarine is typically found in granite pegmatites and metamorphic rocks, particularly in regions with high heat and pressure that allow for the slow growth of large, well-formed crystals. The largest and finest aquamarine deposits are found in Brazil, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia. Other significant sources include Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
Brazil is the most well-known and consistent source of aquamarine, producing some of the largest and most transparent stones in the world. The gem is often mined in all sizes, from small fragments to massive crystals weighing hundreds of carats. These large sizes, combined with the stone’s clarity and brilliance, have made aquamarine a popular choice for high-quality jewelry.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone, also known as blood jasper, is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is distinguished by its deep green base color, which is caused by the presence of chlorite or epidote, and the red spots of iron oxide (hematite) that give the stone its name. The red flecks are believed to symbolize blood, and the stone has long been associated with vitality and life force.
Bloodstone is typically formed in sedimentary rock environments, where silica-rich solutions seep into cavities and harden over time. The iron oxide inclusions are usually introduced later, either through mineral deposits or oxidation processes.
Major sources of bloodstone include India, Brazil, and the United States. India has historically been the most important source, producing large quantities of the gem. In the U.S., bloodstone can be found in Arizona and California, though it is not as abundant as in other regions. The stone is also mined in Nepal, China, and Russia, though the quality and quantity can vary.
Bloodstone is often cut into cabochons rather than faceted stones, as its opaque nature and inclusions make it unsuitable for traditional faceting. The cabochon cut enhances the stone’s visual impact and showcases the contrast between the green background and the red flecks.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of aquamarine and bloodstone helps explain their uses in jewelry, their durability, and their care requirements.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets. It is relatively resistant to scratches and abrasions, and its transparency and brilliance make it a popular choice for faceted cuts.
Key gemological properties of aquamarine include:
- Chemical Formula: Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆
- Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.57 to 1.58
- Color: Blue to blue-green (due to iron)
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy)
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
- Transparency: Transparent to slightly translucent
- Inclusions: Typically clean, with occasional minor inclusions
Aquamarine is also pleochroic, meaning it can show different colors depending on the angle of observation. A well-cut aquamarine will display a consistent blue or blue-green hue, while a poorly cut stone may appear green or colorless from certain angles.
Because of its clarity and brilliance, aquamarine is often cut into emerald or oval shapes, which emphasize its depth and color. It is also commonly cut into round brilliant shapes, which enhance its sparkle and make it ideal for engagement rings and pendants.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it durable enough for everyday wear, though it is more prone to scratches than aquamarine. It is opaque or slightly translucent, which means it is not suitable for faceting and is instead cut into cabochons to enhance its color and inclusions.
Key gemological properties of bloodstone include:
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂ (with inclusions of iron oxide)
- Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.54–1.55
- Color: Deep green with red flecks of iron oxide
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Crystal System: Trigonal (as chalcedony)
- Transparency: Opaque to slightly translucent
- Inclusions: Iron oxide inclusions (red flecks)
Bloodstone is often polished to a high gloss, which enhances its visual appeal and makes it ideal for pendants, beads, and other cabochon-style jewelry. Its sturdy nature makes it well-suited for everyday wear, though it should be handled with care to avoid chipping or scratching.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both aquamarine and bloodstone have been associated with a range of symbolic and metaphysical meanings throughout history. These beliefs, while not supported by scientific evidence, continue to influence the popularity and perception of the stones in modern times.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine has long been associated with the sea and is often called the “sailor’s gem.” Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that carrying aquamarine would protect sailors from drowning and calm the seas, making it a popular talisman for seafarers. It was also believed to bring calmness, courage, and clarity of thought, making it a favored stone for those seeking inner peace.
In medieval Europe, aquamarine was thought to soothe the throat and aid in speech, and it was often worn by those who needed to speak publicly or in debates. It was also considered a stone of love and marriage, and it was believed to bring happiness and harmony to relationships.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to associate aquamarine with emotional balance, communication, and healing. It is often used in holistic healing practices to reduce stress, enhance intuition, and promote a sense of calm and serenity.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone has a rich history of healing and protective properties. It was used in ancient times to ward off illness, cure fevers, and stop bleeding, which is why it was often called the “healing stone.” In medieval times, it was believed to strengthen the body and increase vitality, and it was commonly worn by warriors to boost courage and endurance in battle.
The stone was also associated with justice and truth, and it was often used in legal settings to ensure fairness and honesty. Bloodstone was believed to help those who were facing trials or making difficult decisions, offering clarity and moral strength.
In modern times, bloodstone is still used in alternative healing practices, where it is said to stimulate the circulatory system, reduce inflammation, and enhance physical strength. It is also considered a stone of protection, helping to ward off negative energies and promote courage and determination.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of both aquamarine and bloodstone. While both stones are durable, they have different care requirements based on their hardness, inclusions, and sensitivity to chemicals.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a very durable gemstone, and it can be cleaned using mild soapy water and a soft cloth. For more thorough cleaning, an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner can be used, provided the stone does not have significant inclusions or fractures that could be damaged by vibration or heat.
Because of its high hardness and resistance to scratches, aquamarine is suitable for daily wear in rings, earrings, and necklaces. However, it should be stored separately from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires to avoid scratches.
When handling aquamarine jewelry, it is important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can dull the stone’s surface or damage its clarity over time.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone is slightly less durable than aquamarine and requires gentler cleaning methods. It can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but it should never be placed in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner, as this can cause damage to the inclusions or the surface of the stone.
Because bloodstone is opaque and often cut into cabochons, it is less prone to inclusions or fractures, but it should still be handled with care to avoid chipping or scratching. It is best to store bloodstone jewelry separately from harder gemstones.
Bloodstone should also be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, as these can dull its surface or wear down the iron oxide inclusions that give it its distinctive appearance.
Conclusion
The two birthstones of March—aquamarine and bloodstone—offer a fascinating contrast in appearance, properties, and symbolism. Aquamarine, with its serene blue hues and connection to the sea, represents calm, clarity, and emotional balance, while bloodstone, with its deep green color and vivid red flecks, stands for strength, vitality, and protection.
Both stones have a long and storied history, from their use in ancient amulets and talismans to their modern popularity in jewelry and holistic practices. They are not only beautiful gemstones but also rich in cultural meaning and metaphysical significance, making them a meaningful choice for those born in March or anyone seeking a stone with protective or healing properties.
Whether you choose aquamarine for its sparkling clarity and oceanic charm or bloodstone for its sturdy strength and vibrant character, you are selecting a gemstone with a legacy that spans centuries. As symbols of renewal, courage, and hope, these March birthstones continue to captivate and inspire gemstone lovers around the world.