What is the March Birthstone?
There are two birthstones for March - Aquamarine and Bloodstone.
Aquamarine is a high quality gemstone from the same family as emeralds. Their cool blue colors remind us of a crystal clear tropical ocean and sailors took them to sea to ensure their safe return.
Bloodstones are a type of chalcedony with dramatic deep green colors and speckles of fiery red that reinforce its reputation as a powerful spiritual protector.
March Birthstones - Colors
Aquamarine
The name Aquamarine means 'water from the sea' and that is wonderfully represented by the blue-green colors found in this beautiful gemstone.
Bloodstone
In an absolute contrast to the bright light appearance of aquamarine, Bloodstones are such a deep green that many can appear almost black. To take the edge off the solid green tone there are speckles and splashes of red, orange or brown spots across the surface.
The March Birthstone Price
How expensive is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine is a high quality rare gemstone and the price can reflect this. Rich and intense blue colors are the most valuable and, when faceted, all aquamarines should have excellent clarity.
Smaller aquamarines less than 5 carats can range between as little as $20 per carat all the way to $500 per carat. Top grade aquamarines over 5 carats in weight can even reach $1000 per carat.
Aquamarines with lower levels of clarity can be cut as cabochons with flat bottoms and domed tops. These can display outstanding blue color but with a much lower price tag.
For more details please refer to our full Aquamarine Info page here
How expensive is Bloodstone?
Despite their long history and striking looks, Bloodstones are a very affordable gemstone available for between $2 and $6 per carat. A clean forest green gemstone with bright red spots is the ideal version.
For more details please refer to our full Bloodstone Info page here
What are the spiritual benefits of March Birthstones?
Aquamarine
One look at an aquamarine gemstone and a feeling of calm and serenity will envelop you. Its many other virtues include:
- Good luck for travelers
- Tolerance of others
- Truth and trust
- Improves Communication
See our detailed article on Aquamarine meaning and uses
Bloodstone
Bloodstone was worn by gladiators and athletes for protection and endurance, just some of its other spiritual benefits include:
- Courage and Wisdom
- Increases Prosperity
- Aids Blood Circulation
- Aphrodisiac
See our detailed article on Bloodstone meaning and uses
The March Birthstones and the Chakras
Aquamarine
With its light blue colors, Aquamarine is linked to the Throat Chakra which can help with health issues such as sore throats, neck pain and dental issues. Emotionally it can help with communication and give courage in public speaking.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone is mainly green but its classic association with speckles of red which are supposed to represent the blood of Christ has lead it to be connected to the Root Chakra which deals with feelings of security and grounding.
Find more details on Chakra gemstones here
The March Birthstones Species
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is the blue member of the beryl family, a highly respected gemstone group which also includes:
- Emerald - Green Colors
- Morganite - Pink Colors
- Golden Beryl - Golden Yellow Colors
- Goshenite - The colorless variety
Bloodstone
Bloodstone is a type of Chalcedony along with other very similar gemstones such as:
- Agate
- Jasper
- Onyx
- Carnelian
Chalcedonies are usually divided into separate gemstones by their colors, stripes or patterns.
The March Birthstone Treatments
Aquamarine
Aquamarine gemstones can be heat treated - most commonly to create the much loved deep blue colors. These heated aquamarines are certainly very attractive and the treatment is permanent and widely accepted however any totally natural untreated aquamarine will be considered rarer and more valuable.
We have mostly unheated aquamarines but do sell some heated gemstones and this is always clearly disclosed on the product page.
Bloodstone
Besides the usual cutting and polishing and occasional carving, Bloodstone is not usually treated by heat or dye in any way that we are aware of.
The March Birthstones History
Aquamarine
Aquamarine was first named 'Aquamarine' in 1609 by Anselmus de Boodt but going under the name of sea-green beryl it had been known for centuries before this.
The famous naturalist and philosopher, Pliny the Elder, said this of aquamarine in his famous encyclopedia, Naturalis Historia, written in the first century AD:
'the lovely aquamarine . . . . seems to have come from some mermaid's treasure house'.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone has an even longer history than aquamarine with Babylonian seals being dated back as far as 3000BC! Bloodstone has a sacred connection to Christianity and it was believed that Bloodstone was created when drops of blood from Jesus on the cross fell onto some ordinary jasper. Bloodstone crosses have been discovered that date back to the first century AD.
Where is the March Birthstone found?
Aquamarine
Important sources of Aquamarine include Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria, Madagascar and Mozambique in Africa, China and Myanmar in Asia, Russia and Ukraine in Europe and Colorado in the US. However the majority come from Brazil while it could be argued that the finest are found in the mountains of Pakistan.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone can be found throughout the world with India, Australia, Brazil and Madagascar providing the best in quality and quantity.
What jewelry is the March Birthstones suitable for?
Aquamarine
Aquamarines are high quality gemstones rated at 7.5 - 8 on Mohs hardness scale so they can be used for all daily wear items - exquisite engagement rings for example.
Aquamarine gemstones are available in singles , pairs and lots which makes them ideal for matching jewelry sets or any multiple stone design as well as side stones and accent stones.
The large bright blue cabochons would make striking pendants or brooches.
In addition to being the March birthstone, Aquamarine is also the traditional gemstone to celebrate the 19th wedding anniversary.
Bloodstone
Bloodstones are a very durable 7 on Mohs hardness scale so they are strong enough for all types of jewelry. With dark brooding looks they are excellent for men's jewelry including rings and pendants
