The month of March is uniquely represented by two distinct and historically rich gemstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. While Aquamarine is widely recognized as the modern primary birthstone, celebrated for its serene, ocean-like hues, Bloodstone holds its ground as the traditional counterpart, valued for its deep green canvas splashed with red. Together, they offer a compelling narrative of contrasting colors, origins, and symbolism. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of these two March birthstones, delving into their geological formation, gemological properties, historical lore, and their enduring place in both ancient culture and contemporary jewelry.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to months of the year has ancient roots, with the concept evolving from a biblical account of a breastplate worn by Aaron, which contained twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones became associated with specific months. For March, the historical record points to Bloodstone as the original and sole birthstone. Its deep green color, punctuated by red flecks, was emblematic of strength and vitality. Later, Aquamarine was introduced as a contemporary alternative, reflecting a shift in aesthetic tastes towards its calming blue tones and its profound connection to the sea.
Aquamarine: The Sailor's Gem
Aquamarine’s name is derived directly from the Latin words aqua marina, meaning "water of the sea," a fitting title for a gem whose color ranges from deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue. This association with the ocean is deeply embedded in its history. Ancient mariners believed the gem was a treasure from the sea god Poseidon, claiming it would calm waves and ensure safe passage for sailors. This protective quality extended beyond the seas; ancient Romans and Greeks considered it the sailor's gem, wearing it for protection during travel. The gem was also thought to bring happiness in marriage and was believed to offer the wearer protection against foes in battle and litigation. According to legend, aquamarine originated from the treasure chest of mermaids, further cementing its mystical connection to the sea.
Beyond its protective attributes, Aquamarine was also associated with youth and happiness. Ancient Egyptians and Sumerians used the gem to symbolize joy and believed it held the key to everlasting youth. The stone was often crafted into amulets to bring luck and joy to the wearer. Throughout history, Aquamarine has been cherished not only for its beauty but also for its perceived ability to impart calmness and tranquility. It was also believed to quicken the intellect and make the wearer unconquerable and amiable. In a more modern context, Aquamarine is not only the birthstone for March but is also traditionally given as a gift to celebrate a 19th wedding anniversary.
Bloodstone: The Stone of Vitality
Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, presents a stark visual contrast to Aquamarine. It is typically a dark-green chalcedony, a variety of quartz, which contains distinct red spots of iron oxide. These red inclusions are what gave the stone its name and its powerful symbolism. The "blood" spots were seen as bringing health and strength to the wearer. Its deep green hue with red flecks was interpreted as a representation of strength and vitality. For centuries, Bloodstone has been valued for its grounding energy and its connection to life force, making it a talisman for health, courage, and strength.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the origins of these gems requires a look into their distinct geological paths. While both are cherished for their beauty, their formation and primary mining locations differ significantly.
Aquamarine: A Beryl Variety
Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, which also includes emeralds and morganite. Its characteristic blue-to-blue-green color is the result of trace amounts of iron within its chemical composition. As a variety of beryl, it forms in pegmatites—coarse-grained igneous rocks—where mineral-rich fluids cool and crystallize over long periods.
The most significant and historically important sources of Aquamarine are found in Brazil. The country has produced some of the largest and most famous specimens, including the dark blue, rectangular step-cut stone weighing 1,298 carats that was presented to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt by the government of Brazil in 1936. While Brazil remains a primary source, other notable locations for Aquamarine mining exist around the world, contributing to its availability in the global market.
Bloodstone: A Chalcedony Variety
Bloodstone is a variety of chalcedony, which is itself a microcrystalline form of quartz (silicon dioxide). Its dark green color is typically due to the presence of actinolite or hornblende inclusions, while the distinctive red spots are caused by iron oxide, specifically hematite. Bloodstone forms in volcanic or metamorphic rocks, often in areas where silica-rich fluids have deposited layers of chalcedony.
While the provided sources do not specify the primary modern mining locations for Bloodstone, its historical significance is tied to regions like India, which has long been a source for this traditional gem. Its durability as a form of quartz makes it suitable for carving and cabochon cuts, which have been popular for centuries.
Gemological Properties
The two March birthstones differ significantly in their physical and chemical properties, which in turn influences their use in jewelry, durability, and care requirements. Aquamarine is prized for its clarity and hardness, making it ideal for faceted gems, while Bloodstone’s toughness and opaque nature lend it to cabochon cuts and carved pieces.
Properties of Aquamarine
As a member of the beryl family, Aquamarine shares characteristics with other gems in its group. It is a relatively hard and durable stone, suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Beryl |
| Chemical Formula | Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈ |
| Color | Blue to blue-green |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7.5 - 8 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
Aquamarines are often found without inclusions, giving them a clarity "as clear as water," which symbolizes purity of spirit and soul. This clarity, combined with their hardness, makes them highly valued by gemologists and jewelers. Their color can vary, but the most prized shades are a deep, pure blue. The stones are generally very pale to almost transparent in their natural state and are rarely found in naturally dark blue shades.
Properties of Bloodstone
Bloodstone, being a variety of chalcedony, has a different set of properties. It is valued more for its toughness and unique appearance than for its transparency.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Chalcedony (Quartz variety) |
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ |
| Color | Dark green with red (iron oxide) spots |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Trigonal (microcrystalline) |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
Bloodstone is typically cut as a cabochon to best display its characteristic red "blood" spots against the dark green background. Its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale makes it durable enough for jewelry, though it is slightly less hard than Aquamarine. Its opaque nature prevents faceting, but its unique pattern has made it a favorite for signet rings, cameos, and other ornamental objects throughout history.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The allure of birthstones extends beyond their physical beauty into the realm of symbolism and metaphysical properties. For March, both Aquamarine and Bloodstone carry powerful, albeit different, meanings.
Aquamarine: Calm, Clarity, and Communication
Aquamarine is overwhelmingly associated with serenity, calmness, and peace. Its connection to the sea evokes feelings of tranquility and relaxation. It is believed to soothe fears, reduce stress, and quiet the mind. This calming influence is said to extend to the wearer's emotional state, promoting a peaceful and calm demeanor.
Furthermore, Aquamarine is linked to enhanced communication. It is believed to help the wearer articulate thoughts clearly and effectively, making it a popular talisman for public speakers, performers, and anyone seeking to improve their communication skills. This aligns with the lore that it quickens the intellect. For those born in March, who are often described as excellent communicators, Aquamarine is seen as a stone that perfectly matches their personality. Its association with the Pisces zodiac sign (Feb 20 - Mar 20) further strengthens this connection to the water element, imagination, and creativity.
Bloodstone: Strength, Courage, and Health
Bloodstone’s symbolism is rooted in vitality and power. The "blood" in the stone is not just a visual feature but a potent symbol of life force, health, and strength. Historically, it was considered a stone of courage and was worn by warriors and athletes to enhance their stamina and ensure victory. It was believed to bring health and strength to the wearer, warding off illness and injury.
In metaphysical traditions, Bloodstone is seen as a grounding stone that connects the wearer to the earth's energy. It is said to stimulate the flow of energy throughout the body, promoting vitality and renewal. Its energy is more active and vigorous compared to the calming nature of Aquamarine, making it a stone for those who need an extra boost of determination and resilience.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Due to their different hardness levels and physical characteristics, Aquamarine and Bloodstone require slightly different approaches to cleaning and maintenance.
Caring for Aquamarine
With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, Aquamarine is a relatively durable gemstone. It is resistant to scratching and can withstand the rigors of everyday wear in rings, earrings, and pendants. However, like many gemstones, it can be damaged by sharp blows or extreme temperature changes.
To clean Aquamarine, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong detergents, as they can damage the stone or any metal setting it is in. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for Aquamarine, but it is always wise to exercise caution, especially if the stone has any fractures or inclusions. Steam cleaning is not recommended if the stone has been fracture-filled, though high-quality, clean Aquamarines typically do not undergo such treatments.
Caring for Bloodstone
Bloodstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, is also quite durable but slightly softer than Aquamarine. As a form of chalcedony, it is generally tough, but care should be taken to avoid hard knocks that could chip the stone.
Cleaning Bloodstone is straightforward. Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. It is important to avoid exposing Bloodstone to harsh chemicals, acids, or high heat, which can damage the stone or alter the color of its iron oxide inclusions. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used, but with caution, and steam cleaning should be avoided. Given its opaque nature, the primary goal of cleaning is to remove surface oils and dirt that can dull its luster.
Conclusion
The March birthstones, Aquamarine and Bloodstone, offer a rich duality that makes them uniquely suited to represent the transition from late winter to spring. Aquamarine, with its clear, sea-blue hues, embodies tranquility, communication, and purity. It carries a lore deeply connected to the ocean and safe passage, making it a symbol of calm and clarity. Bloodstone, in contrast, represents the earth's vitality with its deep green and vibrant red spots, symbolizing strength, courage, and health.
The inclusion of both stones in modern and traditional birthstone lists provides those born in March with a choice that reflects different aspects of personality and belief. Whether one is drawn to the serene, watery elegance of Aquamarine or the grounded, life-affirming energy of Bloodstone, both gems possess a deep history, distinct gemological properties, and enduring symbolic power. They are not merely beautiful objects but are steeped in centuries of human culture, mythology, and science, making them truly remarkable treasures for anyone born in the month of March.