March, the first month of spring, is associated with two distinct yet equally captivating gemstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. These stones, each with unique physical properties and rich histories, offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemology, symbolism, and cultural traditions. While Aquamarine is celebrated for its serene blue tones and association with calm and clarity, Bloodstone is revered for its bold green and red patterns and its ties to strength and vitality.
This article provides an in-depth exploration of these two March birthstones. Drawing from a combination of historical accounts, scientific data, and metaphysical insights, it delves into their geological origins, symbolic meanings, and practical uses in modern jewelry and healing practices. By the end of this piece, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes these gemstones not only beautiful, but also deeply significant in both ancient and contemporary contexts.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of March’s Birthstones
Origins and Evolution of Birthstone Traditions
The tradition of assigning gemstones to months of the year has ancient roots. One of the earliest references comes from the Biblical Book of Exodus, where the twelve stones of Aaron’s breastplate were believed to represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Though not directly tied to the modern birthstone calendar, these early associations laid the groundwork for linking gemstones to specific periods and their symbolic meanings.
Over time, these associations evolved, especially in Europe during the medieval and Renaissance periods. By the 14th century, European jewelers and alchemists began to formalize the idea of birthstones, often attributing protective and healing properties to them. This tradition gained momentum in the 19th century when the Jewish Kabbalah and Chinese zodiac systems were also incorporated into the Western birthstone calendar.
By the early 20th century, the National Association of Jewelers (NAJ) in the United States standardized the modern birthstone calendar, assigning specific gemstones to each month. For March, the two chosen stones—Aquamarine and Bloodstone—reflect the dual nature of the month itself: a transition from the cold of winter to the warmth of spring, symbolizing renewal, hope, and strength.
Symbolism and Lore
Both Aquamarine and Bloodstone carry rich symbolic meanings that have persisted across cultures and centuries.
Aquamarine: The Sailor’s Stone
Aquamarine, with its clear, oceanic blue tones, has long been associated with the sea. In ancient times, sailors carried aquamarine to ward off storms and ensure safe passage. The name itself comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “water of the sea,” and this connection to water has imbued the stone with connotations of calmness, clarity, and protection.
In medieval Europe, Aquamarine was believed to have protective powers for travelers and was often used in amulets. In the Renaissance, it became a symbol of youth and purity, often incorporated into the jewelry of young brides. Today, Aquamarine is seen as a gemstone of serenity, courage, and emotional balance.
Bloodstone: The Stone of Strength
Bloodstone, a type of chalcedony, is known for its deep green background and red spots that resemble drops of blood—hence its name. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, believed that the red spots were the blood of Adonis, a mythical figure associated with rebirth and vitality. This connection made Bloodstone a symbol of life, strength, and vitality.
In medieval Europe, Bloodstone was used in talismans to enhance courage and protect against injury. It was also believed to help with physical endurance, making it a popular stone among warriors and athletes. Today, Bloodstone is associated with grounding, protection, and emotional stability, and is often used in meditation and healing practices.
Geological Formation and Sources of March’s Birthstones
Aquamarine: The Beryl of the Sea
Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, a group of beryllium aluminum silicate minerals. Its color, which ranges from pale blue to deep sea-green, is caused by the presence of iron impurities within its crystalline structure. The more iron present, the more intense the blue or green hue.
Aquamarine typically forms in granite pegmatites and metamorphic rocks, where high-temperature conditions allow the crystal to grow. The most notable deposits of high-quality Aquamarine are found in Brazil, particularly in the Santa Maria region, which is known for producing some of the finest and largest specimens. Other significant sources include Madagascar, Nigeria, and the United States, particularly in Colorado and California.
The gemstone’s transparency and durability—rated at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale—make it ideal for use in jewelry. It is often cut into faceted stones to highlight its clarity and color, and is sometimes used in cushion or emerald cuts to enhance its brilliance.
Bloodstone: The Jasper of Vitality
Bloodstone, a variety of chalcedony, is a microcrystalline quartz that forms in sedimentary rock. Its characteristic red spots are due to the presence of iron oxide (hematite), while the green background comes from chromium or iron impurities.
The formation of Bloodstone is often linked to volcanic activity, where silica-rich solutions deposit in cracks and cavities in rocks. Over time, these deposits solidify into the green jasper base, with the iron oxide forming the distinctive red flecks. The most famous source of Bloodstone is India, particularly in the Nashik and Jaipur regions, where large deposits have been mined for centuries.
Other significant sources include Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, where Bloodstone is found in sedimentary formations. Due to its opaque nature and the presence of iron oxide, Bloodstone is typically cabochon-cut rather than faceted, allowing the red spots to be fully visible.
Gemological Properties of March’s Birthstones
Aquamarine: A Transparent Jewel of the Sea
Aquamarine is a transparent to translucent gemstone with a hexagonal crystal system and a specific gravity of approximately 2.67 to 2.80. Its refractive index ranges from 1.56 to 1.60, and it is uniaxial, meaning it has one optic axis. The gemstone exhibits pleochroism, a property where it shows different colors when viewed from different angles—typically a pale blue and a greenish-blue.
Aquamarine is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it is sensitive to shock and heat, and should be handled with care to avoid damage. It is also stable in most light conditions, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause a slight fading of color over time.
In terms of clarity, Aquamarine is typically included, with needle-like inclusions or two-phase inclusions (air and liquid) commonly found within the crystal. These inclusions are often visible to the naked eye and are considered part of the gemstone’s character.
Aquamarine is usually treated to enhance its color. Common treatments include heat treatment, which can lighten or deepen the blue or green tones, and irradiation, which is less common but sometimes used to intensify the blue hue.
Bloodstone: The Grounding Opal of Strength
Bloodstone is an opaque gemstone with a trigonal crystal system and a specific gravity of approximately 2.60 to 2.65. Its refractive index is 1.53 to 1.54, and it is amorphous, meaning it lacks a defined crystal structure.
With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, Bloodstone is moderately durable and can be worn in jewelry, though it is more susceptible to scratches and chips than harder gemstones. It is also sensitive to acid, so it should be cleaned carefully to avoid damage.
Bloodstone is polished to a high luster, making it ideal for cabochon cuts or polished beads. The red spots, caused by iron oxide, are often concentrated in one area of the stone, creating a striking contrast against the green background. These patterns are unique to each stone, making each piece of Bloodstone jewelry one of a kind.
Bloodstone is naturally occurring and not typically treated to enhance its color or clarity. However, it may be dyed in rare cases to enhance or alter the red spots, though this is not common in high-quality specimens.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties of March’s Birthstones
Aquamarine: The Stone of Calm and Clarity
In the realm of metaphysical properties, Aquamarine is considered a stone of peace and tranquility. It is often used in healing practices to reduce anxiety, promote emotional balance, and enhance communication. Those who wear Aquamarine are believed to feel more grounded, calm, and centered, making it an ideal stone for those dealing with stress or emotional turbulence.
In spiritual practices, Aquamarine is associated with the Throat Chakra, which governs communication, self-expression, and truth. It is believed to help individuals speak their truth with clarity and confidence, making it a popular stone for public speakers, teachers, and those in leadership roles.
Aquamarine is also linked to trust, hope, and healing, especially in relationships. It is said to encourage open and honest communication between partners and to foster a sense of mutual understanding and support.
Bloodstone: The Stone of Strength and Vitality
Bloodstone is a stone of strength, vitality, and courage. It is often used in healing practices to boost energy levels, enhance physical endurance, and promote a sense of grounding and stability. Those who wear Bloodstone are believed to feel more connected to the earth and more resilient in the face of challenges.
In spiritual practices, Bloodstone is associated with the Root Chakra, which governs grounding, stability, and physical strength. It is believed to help individuals stay rooted in the present moment and to build a strong foundation for personal growth and transformation.
Bloodstone is also linked to emotional healing, particularly in overcoming fear and anxiety. It is said to help individuals face their fears and step out of their comfort zones, making it an ideal stone for those who are working on personal development or embarking on new ventures.
Care and Cleaning of March’s Birthstones
Aquamarine: A Durable but Delicate Gem
Aquamarine is relatively durable, with a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it is sensitive to shock and heat, and should be handled with care to avoid damage.
To clean Aquamarine, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the gemstone. If the stone has been treated with heat or irradiation, it should be cleaned even more carefully to avoid fading or discoloration.
Aquamarine should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches, and should be kept away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Bloodstone: A Grounding and Resilient Stone
Bloodstone is moderately durable, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for jewelry. However, it is more prone to scratches and chips than harder gemstones, and should be handled with care.
To clean Bloodstone, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using acid or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone’s surface or alter its color. Bloodstone should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Bloodstone is opaque, so it does not require the same level of care as transparent gemstones. However, it should still be handled with care to maintain its luster and appearance over time.
Conclusion
March, the month of new beginnings, is symbolically represented by two remarkable gemstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Each stone carries its own unique set of geological, historical, and metaphysical properties, offering a rich and diverse symbolism that reflects the dual nature of the month itself.
Aquamarine, with its serene blue tones and association with the sea, is a stone of calm, clarity, and emotional balance. It is a popular choice for jewelry and healing practices, and is believed to promote trust, hope, and communication.
Bloodstone, with its bold green and red patterns, is a stone of strength, vitality, and courage. It is often used in healing practices to boost energy levels and promote grounding and stability. It is also believed to help individuals face their fears and step out of their comfort zones.
Together, these two gemstones offer a rich and diverse symbolism that reflects the spirit of March: a time of renewal, growth, and transformation. Whether worn for their aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, or historical significance, Aquamarine and Bloodstone continue to captivate and inspire gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology around the world.