March Birthstone: History, Lore, and More

Introduction

Birthstones have a storied place in history, with each month’s gemstone carrying its unique legend and lore. The tradition, believed to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, which contained twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel, has evolved to associate a specific gemstone with each month of the calendar year. These stones are not just ornaments; they are steeped in symbolism and personal significance.

For those born in the third month of the year, March, two captivating gemstones serve as emblems of their birth month: aquamarine and bloodstone. These gems are as different as night and day in appearance yet are united by the rich tapestry of history and mystique that surrounds them. So, whether you’re looking for your March 12 or March 26 birthstone, it’s aquamarine or bloodstone.

Aquamarine, with its serene blue hue, echoes the tranquility of the ocean’s depths. It is a gemstone that conjures images of calm seas and clear skies. On the other hand, bloodstone, a dark, enigmatic stone flecked with vivid red spots, carries a more robust and earthy presence.

This article delves into the essence of these two March birthstones, exploring their history, the lore that has embraced them through the ages, and the various attributes that continue to endear these gems to enthusiasts around the world. Join us as we uncover the tales of courage, healing, and protection that have been attributed to these fascinating jewels of March.

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The Color and Charm of Aquamarine

Aquamarine, the primary birthstone for March, captures the essence of a serene sea and sky. It’s no surprise that the name ‘aquamarine’ is derived from the Latin words ‘aqua marina,’ meaning ‘sea water.’ This gemstone, with its range of blue tones, has been a beacon of fascination for centuries, not just for its captivating appearance but also for the perceived depth it adds to jewelry.

Spectrum of Blue

• Translucent to Transparent: Aquamarine’s allure begins with its clarity and ranges from crystal clear to a translucent form that nearly mimics the ripple of water.
• Color Range:
  • Deep Sea Blue: The most prized aquamarines are those with a deep, saturated blue, reminiscent of the ocean’s vastness.
  • Sky Blue to Greenish-Blue: A lighter, more pastel blue aquamarine offers a softer appeal, while the greenish-blue stones bring a unique twist to the traditional blue.
• Value of Color: In aquamarine, the depth of color directly impacts the stone’s value, with the intense blues fetching higher prices in the marketplace.

Crafting and Enhancing Color

Expert lapidaries enhance aquamarine’s natural beauty through skillful cutting, often opting for styles that maximize the stone’s transparency and reflective qualities. Oval and pear shapes are especially popular, as both create the impression of a much more substantial stone.

It’s not uncommon for aquamarines to undergo heat treatment, a standard industry practice to improve color and clarity, making them even more desirable to consumers. While reputable sellers should disclose any gem treatment, it’s best to assume any aquamarine you encounter has been heat treated.

Symbolism and Sentiment

Historically, aquamarine has been associated with the calming energies of the sea, making it a favored talisman among sailors. The cool, calming shade of blue is often linked to feelings of serenity and tranquility, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sense of calm.

In jewelry, aquamarine offers versatility and elegance, whether it is set as a solitaire in a ring, as the central piece in a pendant, or interspersed with other gems in a bracelet. Its wearability and the breadth of color make it a favored gem for designers and consumers alike, ensuring its place in the pantheon of cherished gemstones.

The Historical Journey of Aquamarine

Aquamarine, a gemstone synonymous with the sea’s azure expanse, has a storied past that intertwines with human history and culture. From its etymological roots to its esteemed place in ancient lore, the journey of aquamarine is as rich and varied as the hues it exhibits.

Etymology and Ancient Beliefs

The term ‘aquamarine’ originates from the Latin ‘aqua marina,’ highlighting its connection to the ocean’s hues. Sailors of old believed aquamarine to be the treasure of mermaids, and thus, a talisman for good fortune and protection against the perils of the sea.

Aquamarine in Historical Context

Aquamarine has been used as a gemstone in jewelry and decorative objects dating back to ancient times. Esteemed by royalty, aquamarine has graced crowns, scepters, and royal jewelry collections across various cultures.

Symbolism Through the Ages

In the lore of some cultures, aquamarine was thought to ensure a happy marriage and foster mutual understanding between spouses. The stone was also credited with healing properties and the ability to reveal the truth, making it a tool for oracles.

Geographic and Historical Significance

While Brazil is renowned as a primary source today, the gemstone has been historically found across various continents, each with its own narrative of discovery and trade. Two Brazilian varieties remain popular, Espirito Santo aquamarine and Santa Maria aquamarine.

Aquamarine has been uncovered in numerous archaeological digs, offering insights into its historical uses and significance. Most importantly, it served as a talisman offering protection from the sea.

In its journey from the depths of the earth to the height of human adornment, aquamarine has been a constant symbol of beauty, protection, and healing. Its place in history is as enduring as the stone itself, cementing its status as a gem that transcends generations.

Aquamarine, with its clear, blue tones reminiscent of tranquil waters, is not only a gemstone with universal appeal but also one with a global footprint. The quest for this March birthstone spans continents, highlighting a rich diversity in its sources and the cultural narratives surrounding its mining.

Principal Sources of Aquamarine

• Brazil: Recognized as the world’s premier source, Brazilian aquamarines are renowned for their size and striking shades of blue.
• Africa: Mines in countries like Nigeria, Zambia, and Madagascar contribute significantly to the global supply.
• Asia: India and China have been traditional sources, with each region’s stones bearing distinctive characteristics.
• Russia: The Ural Mountains have yielded aquamarines of note.
• United States: North Carolina, Colorado, and California are known for their deposits, connecting local history to the gem trade.

Mining and Environmental Impact

An increasing focus on the ecological footprint of gemstone mining has spurred the industry towards more sustainable practices. Efforts are underway to minimize the environmental damage caused by aquamarine mining, such as reducing waste and preserving the surrounding ecosystem.

The extraction of aquamarine provides vital economic benefits to local communities, including job creation and the development of infrastructure. Mining operations are increasingly involving local stakeholders in decision-making processes, ensuring that the benefits of aquamarine mining extend to community welfare and development.

The narrative of aquamarine is a testament to the gemstone’s universal allure and its ability to connect disparate parts of the world through beauty and commerce. Each source offers a unique chapter in the ongoing story of aquamarine, adding to the tapestry of its rich and colorful history.

Aquamarine’s Value and Affordability

Aquamarine not only captures the heart of those who wear it but also presents an intriguing case study in gemstone value and market dynamics. This section examines the factors that influence aquamarine’s value and its relative affordability in the gem market.

Determinants of Aquamarine’s Value

• Color: The deeper and more vivid the blue, the higher the value, with the rare dark blue stones being particularly prized.
• Clarity: Like most gemstones, the fewer the inclusions, the more valuable the stone.
• Cut: A well-executed cut can enhance the stone’s natural brilliance and color, thereby increasing its value.
• Carat Weight: Larger stones, especially those over five carats, command higher prices due to their rarity. Stone size can influence color, as it tends to deepen in larger gems.

Market Availability

Aquamarine is relatively abundant, which keeps its price more accessible compared to rarer stones. From opaque beads to stunningly cut and polished gems, there are options for every budget. Even large specimens can be moderately priced, making them popular in statement jewelry. High-quality aquamarine pieces can serve as investments, appreciating in value over time.

Aquamarine’s value is multifaceted, influenced by its inherent qualities and the market’s supply and demand. Despite its many desirable attributes, its relative abundance ensures that aquamarine remains an accessible luxury for a diverse clientele, maintaining its position as a beloved gemstone in the jewelry industry.

The Physical and Durable Nature of Aquamarine

Aquamarine’s physical properties not only contribute to its beauty but also to its practicality as a choice for everyday jewelry. This section explores the durability and physical characteristics that make aquamarine a gemstone suited for regular wear.

Hardness and Durability

• Mohs Scale Rating: Aquamarine ranks at 7.5 to 8, indicating good hardness suitable for daily wear.
• Resistance to Scratching: Due to its hardness, aquamarine resists scratches better than softer gemstones, maintaining its polish over time.

Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning Practices: Simple cleaning with soap and water is typically sufficient to maintain aquamarine’s luster.
• Professional Maintenance: Regular check-ups with a jeweler can ensure settings remain secure and the stone’s brilliance is preserved.

Suitability for Various Jewelry Types

• Rings and Bracelets: Despite its hardness, care should be taken when setting aquamarine in rings and bracelets to protect it from hard knocks.
• Earrings and Pendants: Aquamarine is an excellent choice for earrings and pendants that are less exposed to wear.

Cut and Shape

• Faceting: Aquamarine is often faceted to enhance its natural brilliance and color.
• Popular Cuts: Emerald, oval, and cushion cuts are popular, maximizing the stone’s reflective qualities.

Impact of Physical Properties on Design

• Design Flexibility: Aquamarine’s durability and ease of cutting allow designers to experiment with various shapes and settings.
• Color Uniformity: The consistent coloring throughout the stone provides designers with a reliable palette for creating cohesive pieces.

Aquamarine’s blend of beauty and resilience makes it a favored gemstone for both jewelers and consumers. Its physical properties ensure that, with minimal care, aquamarine jewelry can be enjoyed for many years to come, making it a timeless addition to any collection.

Spiritual Essence of Aquamarine

Aquamarine has long been revered not only for its beauty but also for its supposed spiritual properties. This section delves into the ethereal aspects of aquamarine that have captivated human imagination and spirituality.

Historical and Cultural Associations

• Seafarers’ Gem: Aquamarine has been historically favored by sailors for safe passage and is considered a stone of protection on water.
• Mermaid Treasure: Legend has it that aquamarine originates from mermaid treasure chests, imbuing it with mystical qualities.
• Ancient Lore: Historically, aquamarine was thought to cure heart, liver, and stomach diseases when ingested as water infused with the gemstone.
• Protective Qualities: It was also believed to protect against poison—a common concern in historical times.

Contemporary Beliefs

• Meditative Use: The stone is used in practices aimed at meditation and rejuvenation, due to its soothing properties.
• Modern-day Talisman: Beyond its historical uses, aquamarine serves as a talisman for many today, believed to bring luck and friendship.

Aquamarine in Healing Practices

Beyond its captivating appearance, aquamarine is believed to possess therapeutic properties that contribute to its longstanding appeal. While modern science doesn’t support the healing claims of gemstones, many people still use aquamarine in their wellness routines for its perceived calming effects.

As a result, aquamarine is often included in products and services aimed at relaxation and stress relief. Some practitioners credit aquamarine with the ability to heal emotional and physical ailments related to stress. The stone is thought to help in balancing emotional states and fostering a calm mental environment.

The stone is associated with the throat chakra, believed to enhance communication and self-expression. Some holistic practitioners use aquamarine to help with digestive, liver, and endocrine issues.

Aquamarine’s reputation for healing is an interplay of historical belief and modern-day wellness culture, offering a gemstone that appeals not just to the eyes but also to the quest for well-being. Whether these properties are substantiated or not, the narrative of healing adds to the mystique and desirability of this serene gem.

Bloodstone: The Alternative March Birthstone

While aquamarine is often the gemstone that comes to mind for March, bloodstone stands as its historical counterpart. This section highlights bloodstone’s significance as an alternative birthstone for March and its unique characteristics.

Understanding Bloodstone

Bloodstone, a form of chalcedony, is characterized by its dark green color with speckles of red iron oxide. The name reflects the stone’s appearance, with the red spots reminiscent of blood, tying it to ancient tales of courage and valor.

Bloodstone’s Historical Significance

Bloodstone was believed to have healing and protective properties, particularly in contexts of battle and conflict. In the Middle Ages, the stone was often carried by warriors as an amulet to stop bleeding or to heal wounds.

Physical Properties

Bloodstone has a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, making it durable for various jewelry applications. The stone requires minimal care, similar to other forms of quartz, ensuring its longevity as a wearable gem.

Symbolism and Modern Associations

Bloodstone is often associated with strength, good health, and vitality, making it a popular choice among athletes and those with active lifestyles. Some believe bloodstone to have grounding and purifying properties, providing spiritual benefits to the wearer.

Bloodstone in Jewelry and Design

Its unique appearance allows for a variety of jewelry designs, from classic to contemporary. Bloodstone can be paired with other gemstones, particularly those that contrast or complement its distinctive colors.

Bloodstone serves as a compelling alternative to aquamarine for those born in March, offering a different, yet equally rich, set of historical, physical, and symbolic attributes. Its enduring legacy as a gemstone of protection and strength continues to resonate in modern times.

Conclusion

As we draw the curtains on our exploration of March’s birthstones, we reflect on the enduring allure of aquamarine and bloodstone. These gems, each with their distinct beauty and storied past, continue to capture the imaginations and adorn the lives of those they represent.

Summation of Aquamarine and Bloodstone

• Aquamarine: A gem that mirrors the sea’s tranquility, offering a symbol of protection, serenity, and clear communication.
• Bloodstone: An emblem of strength, health, and resilience, rich with historical valor and present-day vitality.

Birthstones go beyond mere decoration; they carry personal significance and cultural heritage, linking individuals to a broader human story. Whether chosen for their healing properties, spiritual significance, or simply for their aesthetic appeal, March’s birthstones offer a unique and personal connection. These gemstones contribute to the cultural tapestry, with each piece of jewelry telling a part of a larger narrative.

In conclusion, aquamarine and bloodstone stand as testaments to nature’s artistry and humankind’s quest for meaning through objects of beauty. Whether they are set in a piece of jewelry, held as a keepsake, or worn as a daily accessory, these gemstones serve as a constant reminder of the rich and multifaceted tapestry of life that each March-born individual is a part of.

Updated November 7, 2023.