March is one of the few months with two officially recognized birthstones, and they couldn’t look more different. One captures the clear blue beauty of the ocean, while the other features deep green tones marked by striking red spots.
The march birthstone includes aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine is a blue-to-greenish-blue variety of beryl associated with serenity, clarity, and the sea. Bloodstone is a dark green variety of chalcedony, typically marked with red inclusions, traditionally symbolizing courage, vitality, and protection. Both have distinctive histories, appearances, and geological properties.
Although aquamarine is often more familiar in modern jewelry, bloodstone has an equally fascinating heritage. Understanding both gemstones reveals how March’s birthstones connect ancient traditions, mineral science, personal symbolism, and jewelry design.
What Is the march birthstone?
March has two recognized birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Both appear on modern birthstone lists, including those published by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society.
Aquamarine is generally considered the primary modern March birthstone, while bloodstone is frequently described as the traditional alternative.
Their differences go far beyond appearance.
| Feature | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral family | Beryl | Chalcedony (quartz family) |
| Typical color | Light blue to greenish blue | Dark green with red spots |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5–8 | 6.5–7 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Usually opaque |
| Traditional symbolism | Calm, clarity, harmony | Courage, strength, protection |
| Historical associations | Sailors and the sea | Ancient seals and amulets |
| Common jewelry | Rings, pendants, earrings | Signet rings, beads, pendants |
| Typical finish | Faceted | Polished cabochon or carving |
The two stones offer contrasting expressions of March’s identity. Aquamarine is often linked to peaceful water and open skies, whereas bloodstone carries an earthy appearance and a long history of protective symbolism.
Why Does March Have Two Birthstones?
Birthstone traditions evolved over centuries rather than emerging from a single universally accepted system.
Ancient associations between gemstones, calendar months, and religious traditions eventually developed into modern birthstone lists. Different cultures and organizations adopted slightly different arrangements.
In the United States, the National Association of Jewelers standardized a birthstone list in 1912. Subsequent updates and industry conventions helped establish the contemporary selections.
Aquamarine became closely associated with March through modern birthstone traditions, while bloodstone retained its place through older historical associations.
Having two birthstones does not mean that people born in different parts of March must use different stones. Both are associated with the entire month.
Aquamarine: The Blue march birthstone
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Aquamarine is prized for its delicate blue color, exceptional transparency, and connection to the ocean.
Its name comes from the Latin words aqua and marina, meaning water and sea. The name describes the gemstone’s characteristic ocean-like appearance.
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl mineral family, which also includes emerald and morganite.
What Color Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine ranges from pale blue to moderately saturated blue and greenish blue.
Its color comes primarily from iron within the crystal structure. Different oxidation states and interactions involving iron influence the resulting color.
Common color descriptions include:
- Pale sky blue
- Light ocean blue
- Greenish blue
- Medium blue
- Rich, saturated blue
Deeply saturated blue aquamarine is generally more valuable than very pale material when other quality factors are comparable.
Unlike emerald, which is valued for its intense green color, aquamarine is recognized for its blue and blue-green shades.
Some aquamarine gemstones undergo controlled heating to reduce greenish tones and produce a more desirable blue appearance. This is a common treatment in the gemstone trade.
Aquamarine Meaning and Symbolism
Throughout history, aquamarine has been associated with water, tranquility, communication, and protection.
Ancient maritime traditions connected blue gemstones with safe voyages. Sailors sometimes carried aquamarine as a protective talisman, believing it could help guard against danger at sea.
Today, aquamarine commonly represents:
- Peace: Its soft blue appearance evokes calm water and clear skies.
- Clarity: The gemstone’s transparency is associated with clear thinking.
- Communication: Modern crystal traditions connect aquamarine with honest expression.
- Harmony: Its gentle appearance has made it a symbol of balanced relationships.
- Protection: Historical folklore links it with safe travel, particularly across water.
These meanings belong to cultural traditions and personal interpretations. There is no reliable scientific evidence that wearing aquamarine directly changes emotional health, communication abilities, or physical well-being.
Where Is Aquamarine Found?
Aquamarine forms in geological environments associated with beryllium-rich minerals, especially granitic pegmatites.
Notable aquamarine-producing countries include Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Brazil is particularly famous for its aquamarine deposits, including material from Minas Gerais.
Pakistan’s mountainous northern regions, especially Gilgit-Baltistan, are also known for producing impressive aquamarine crystals.
Some specimens are valued as mineral collectibles because they preserve their natural hexagonal crystal shape.
How Hard Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine measures 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
This makes it relatively resistant to scratches and suitable for many types of jewelry.
However, hardness does not mean that a gemstone is unbreakable.
Aquamarine can still chip or fracture when struck against a hard surface, particularly around exposed corners or thin edges.
For rings worn frequently, protective settings can reduce the risk of accidental damage.
Bloodstone: The Traditional March Birthstone
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Bloodstone, also called heliotrope, is a distinctive gemstone known for its dark green background and red markings.
It is a variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of silica belonging to the quartz family.
Unlike aquamarine, which is typically transparent, bloodstone is generally opaque.
Its dramatic appearance makes it especially suitable for carvings, signet rings, polished stones, and decorative objects.
Why Is Bloodstone Green and Red?
Bloodstone’s green body color results from mineral inclusions, while its red spots are generally associated with iron oxides such as hematite.
The markings may appear as scattered dots, irregular patches, or streaks.
Not every bloodstone has the same balance of green and red.
Some specimens feature numerous vivid red spots, while others have only a few subtle markings.
Traditional bloodstone is usually recognized by its green background and red inclusions. Stones with unusual combinations of yellow, brown, or other colors may be described differently by sellers.
Bloodstone Meaning and Symbolism
Bloodstone has been associated with courage, endurance, sacrifice, and protection for centuries.
Ancient civilizations used the gemstone for engraved seals, amulets, and ornamental objects.
Its unusual red markings contributed to beliefs that the stone had a connection with blood, vitality, and physical strength.
Common symbolic meanings include:
- Courage in difficult circumstances
- Determination and resilience
- Protection from danger
- Vitality and strength
- Grounding and stability
In some Christian traditions, bloodstone became associated with the blood of Christ, and religious carvings sometimes incorporated the gemstone’s natural red markings.
These interpretations reflect historical beliefs rather than scientifically established effects.
What Is the Difference Between Bloodstone and Heliotrope?
Bloodstone and heliotrope generally refer to the same gemstone variety.
The term heliotrope comes from Greek roots associated with the sun and turning.
Historical writers described beliefs that the stone could influence the appearance of sunlight or water. Such accounts are part of gemstone folklore.
In modern gemology, heliotrope is commonly used as an alternative name for bloodstone.
Where Is Bloodstone Found?
Bloodstone occurs in several regions around the world.
Important sources include India, Brazil, Australia, China, and parts of the United States.
India has historically been an important source of bloodstone used in carvings and ornamental jewelry.
Because bloodstone is usually opaque, lapidaries often cut it into smooth cabochons or carve it rather than producing conventional transparent faceted gemstones.
Aquamarine vs. Bloodstone: Which March Birthstone Is Different?
Aquamarine and bloodstone share a birth month, but their mineral composition, appearance, and traditional uses are quite different.
Appearance and Color
Aquamarine is usually transparent and reflects light through a faceted crystal.
Bloodstone is opaque, so its visual appeal comes primarily from its polished surface and contrasting natural patterns.
Aquamarine often suits designs emphasizing brightness and clarity. Bloodstone works well in jewelry featuring bold surfaces, engravings, or distinctive mineral patterns.
Durability and Everyday Wear
Both gemstones can be used in jewelry, but aquamarine has a higher Mohs hardness rating.
That difference matters because rings and bracelets frequently come into contact with hard surfaces.
Bloodstone is more susceptible to scratching than aquamarine, although it remains reasonably durable when handled carefully.
Neither gemstone should be exposed unnecessarily to hard impacts.
Transparency and Cutting Styles
Aquamarine is commonly fashioned into oval, round, emerald-cut, pear, and cushion-shaped gems.
Its transparency allows cutters to emphasize brilliance, color, and clarity.
Bloodstone is usually cut as a cabochon, bead, tablet, or carving.
Its opacity means traditional faceting generally offers less visual benefit than a smooth polished surface.
Symbolic Differences
Aquamarine’s traditional meanings emphasize tranquility, peaceful communication, and safe travel.
Bloodstone’s symbolism emphasizes courage, perseverance, and protection.
Neither gemstone has an objectively superior meaning. Their significance depends on historical context, cultural background, and personal interpretation.
How to Identify a Genuine march birthstone
Identifying a gemstone correctly requires more than comparing its color with photographs.
Natural gemstones can vary considerably in appearance, and some imitation materials closely resemble genuine stones.
Identifying Natural Aquamarine
Natural aquamarine usually displays a blue or greenish-blue color, often with excellent transparency.
Several characteristics can help with an initial assessment:
- Color: Typically pale to moderately saturated blue or greenish blue.
- Clarity: Many gem-quality specimens appear nearly free of visible inclusions.
- Crystal structure: Rough aquamarine often forms elongated hexagonal crystals.
- Luster: A polished surface normally exhibits a glass-like appearance.
- Pleochroism: Some specimens display slightly different colors when viewed from different directions.
Aquamarine may be confused with blue topaz, blue glass, or certain synthetic materials.
Color alone cannot reliably distinguish them.
A gemologist can examine refractive index, specific gravity, optical characteristics, and microscopic features to determine the gemstone’s identity.
Identifying Genuine Bloodstone
Bloodstone is easier to recognize visually because of its distinctive green-and-red appearance.
However, other patterned stones and manufactured materials can resemble it.
Typical characteristics include a predominantly green body, naturally irregular red markings, and a smooth, often waxy-looking polished surface.
The red spots are generally caused by iron oxide inclusions rather than surface paint.
A genuine specimen may contain variations in color distribution, but those variations alone do not prove authenticity.
For valuable or uncertain specimens, professional gemological testing is more reliable than home identification methods.
Natural, Treated, and Imitation Gemstones
These terms describe different characteristics:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Natural | Formed through geological processes |
| Treated | Natural material altered to improve appearance |
| Synthetic | Laboratory-created material with essentially the same chemical and crystal structure as its natural counterpart |
| Imitation | Material resembling a gemstone but having a different composition |
Heat-treated aquamarine is still natural aquamarine.
A glass imitation, however, is not aquamarine, even when its color appears nearly identical.
This distinction matters when interpreting gemstone descriptions and understanding how different materials are classified.
The History and Cultural Significance of March Birthstones
Birthstones are part of a much broader tradition linking precious stones with calendars, beliefs, and personal identity.
Ancient Origins of Birthstone Traditions
The history of birthstones is often connected with the twelve gemstones described on the biblical breastplate of Aaron.
Over time, interpretations linked gemstones with the twelve tribes of Israel, zodiac signs, and months of the year.
The exact relationship between ancient gemstone names and modern mineral classifications is uncertain because historical terminology was not standardized.
The practice of consistently wearing a gemstone associated with one’s birth month developed much later.
Modern birthstone lists are therefore a combination of historical symbolism, jewelry traditions, and industry standardization.
Aquamarine in Maritime Folklore
Aquamarine’s connection to the ocean is central to its cultural identity.
Ancient mariners reportedly believed that carrying the gemstone could calm waves and protect travelers from maritime dangers.
It was also associated with marital happiness and favorable relationships.
The gemstone’s clear appearance helped establish symbolic connections with purity, honesty, and peaceful intentions.
These associations remain common in contemporary descriptions of aquamarine.
Bloodstone in Ancient Civilizations
Bloodstone has a particularly long history as a carving material.
Its compact structure makes it suitable for engraved seals, decorative objects, and small ornamental sculptures.
Examples of engraved bloodstone and related gemstones are associated with ancient Greek and Roman craftsmanship.
The gemstone’s red markings also contributed to religious and medicinal folklore.
Historical communities sometimes believed bloodstone could influence bleeding, physical endurance, or protection from illness.
Such claims should be understood as historical beliefs, not medical recommendations.
Famous Aquamarine Gemstones
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One of the world’s most celebrated aquamarine objects is the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, housed at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
The gemstone weighs approximately 10,363 carats and was carved by German lapidary artist Bernd Munsteiner.
Its tall, sculptural form demonstrates how aquamarine’s transparency can be combined with intricate cutting techniques.
Another historically significant specimen is the 1,298-carat aquamarine presented to Eleanor Roosevelt by the Brazilian government in 1936.
The gemstone is associated with the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York.
These remarkable examples demonstrate the impressive sizes that high-quality aquamarine crystals can sometimes achieve.
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How to Care for Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Proper gemstone care helps preserve surface polish, color, and jewelry settings.
Although both March birthstones are relatively durable, they require different levels of protection from scratches and impacts.
Cleaning Aquamarine Safely
For routine cleaning, warm water and mild dish soap are generally sufficient.
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and a little mild soap.
- Allow the jewelry to soak briefly if its setting and any accompanying materials permit it.
- Gently clean the stone and setting with a soft brush.
- Rinse carefully with clean water.
- Dry with a lint-free cloth.
Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can sometimes be used for untreated aquamarine without problematic fractures or inclusions, but warm soapy water is the safer general method.
Avoid extreme heat and harsh chemical exposure.
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Cleaning Bloodstone Safely
Bloodstone can also be cleaned using lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush.
Because it is somewhat softer than aquamarine, avoid abrasive cleaning products or rough scrubbing.
After cleaning, dry the gemstone thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Keep bloodstone away from harsh chemicals and excessive heat.
Storing March Birthstones
Gemstones should be stored separately to minimize accidental scratching.
Aquamarine can scratch softer gemstones, while harder materials such as sapphire and diamond may scratch aquamarine.
Bloodstone is particularly vulnerable to contact with harder jewelry.
Soft fabric pouches or individually lined compartments provide useful protection.
| Care consideration | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
|---|---|---|
| Warm soapy water | Recommended | Recommended |
| Soft brush | Suitable | Suitable |
| Ultrasonic cleaning | Sometimes suitable | Best avoided as a precaution |
| Steam cleaning | Sometimes suitable | Best avoided as a precaution |
| Extreme heat | Avoid | Avoid |
| Separate storage | Recommended | Recommended |
These guidelines are consistent with the gemstone-care recommendations published by GIA.
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March Birthstone Jewelry and Gemstone Quality
March’s two gemstones appear in a wide range of jewelry styles, from delicate faceted pendants to substantial carved signet rings.
Understanding their physical characteristics helps explain why certain designs are more common.
Aquamarine Rings, Necklaces, and Earrings
Aquamarine is especially popular in transparent faceted jewelry.
Its light color works with many metal finishes, including yellow gold, white gold, platinum, and sterling silver.
The gemstone’s clarity also makes it suitable for larger cuts.
Common designs include solitaire rings, drop earrings, pendants, and anniversary jewelry.
Aquamarine is traditionally associated with the 19th wedding anniversary, giving it significance beyond March birthdays.
Aquamarine Stone – GIA
Bloodstone Rings and Pendants
Bloodstone has a different visual character.
Its opaque appearance and patterned surface make it suitable for signet rings, carved pendants, beads, and cufflinks.
A polished bloodstone can display a strong contrast between its dark green base and red inclusions.
Historically, bloodstone was used for engraved seals and cameos, a tradition that complements its relatively fine-grained structure.
What Determines Aquamarine Quality?
Aquamarine quality is generally evaluated through color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Color is particularly influential.
Gemstones with attractive, evenly distributed blue color often receive greater attention than extremely pale specimens.
Clarity also matters because aquamarine frequently occurs with few visible inclusions.
A well-executed cut should bring out the gemstone’s color while minimizing areas that appear excessively transparent or lifeless.
Larger stones may display stronger color because light travels through more material.
What Determines Bloodstone Quality?
Bloodstone quality is judged differently because transparency and brilliance are not its main attractions.
Important characteristics include:
- Rich, attractive green background color
- Distinctive red markings
- Balanced natural pattern
- Good surface polish
- Absence of distracting fractures or significant damage
Some people prefer specimens with scattered red spots, while others appreciate larger streaks or patches.
There is no single universally preferred pattern.
March Birthstone Colors, Zodiac Signs, and Personal Meaning
The colors of March’s birthstones are often associated with the transition from winter to spring.
Aquamarine’s blue suggests water, open skies, and renewal. Bloodstone’s green and red create associations with growth, vitality, and resilience.
What Is the Official March Birthstone Color?
March does not have one exclusive birthstone color because it has two recognized gemstones.
Blue is the color most frequently associated with March through aquamarine.
Bloodstone introduces dark green and red as alternative traditional birthstone colors.
Therefore, both blue and green-with-red are valid representations of March birthstones.
Is Aquamarine Associated With Pisces or Aries?
March includes portions of two Western zodiac signs:
| Zodiac sign | Approximate dates | Common gemstone association |
|---|---|---|
| Pisces | February 19–March 20 | Aquamarine |
| Aries | March 21–April 19 | Bloodstone |
These associations appear in modern astrology and gemstone symbolism, but they are not universal rules.
The dates can vary slightly according to the year and astrological convention.
Most importantly, birthstones are assigned by calendar month rather than zodiac sign.
A person born on March 25 can still consider aquamarine their birthstone, just as someone born on March 5 can consider bloodstone theirs.
Does the March Birthstone Have Healing Properties?
Aquamarine and bloodstone are frequently discussed in crystal-healing traditions.
Aquamarine is associated with emotional calm and clear communication, while bloodstone is linked with vitality and physical endurance.
These claims have cultural and spiritual significance for some individuals.
However, there is no robust scientific evidence that wearing either gemstone treats illness, improves circulation, reduces anxiety, or produces measurable healing effects.
Gemstones may hold personal or symbolic value, but they should not replace evidence-based medical care.
Interesting Facts About the march birthstone
Several details distinguish March’s gemstones from those assigned to other months.
Aquamarine belongs to the same mineral family as emerald. Both are varieties of beryl, but different trace elements and chemical conditions produce their characteristic colors.
Bloodstone is not made of blood. Its red markings generally result from iron oxide inclusions, particularly hematite.
Aquamarine crystals can become exceptionally large. Their geological formation sometimes produces sizable, transparent crystals suitable for large faceted gemstones and elaborate carvings.
Bloodstone has two widely recognized names. Heliotrope is an alternative mineral and gemstone name with roots in ancient Greek.
March has both transparent and opaque birthstones. This makes the month particularly interesting from a gemological perspective because the two stones require different cutting approaches.
Aquamarine is Colorado’s state gemstone. Deposits occur in mountainous areas, including Mount Antero.
Bloodstone has been used for engraved objects for centuries. Its fine-grained structure makes it suitable for carving detailed designs.
Neither stone is restricted to March birthdays. Birthstone associations are cultural traditions rather than rules governing who may wear a particular gemstone.
Final Thoughts on the march birthstone
The march birthstone tradition brings together two gemstones with contrasting appearances and rich histories.
Aquamarine represents the blue beauty of the sea, with its transparent crystal structure, calming symbolism, and longstanding connection to maritime folklore. Bloodstone offers a darker, earthier appearance, with distinctive red inclusions and historical associations with courage, protection, and endurance.
Both are officially recognized March birthstones, and neither is limited to a particular day of the month.
Understanding their mineral properties, origins, symbolism, and care requirements provides a more complete appreciation of what makes each gemstone distinctive. Whether viewed through geology, jewelry history, or personal tradition, aquamarine and bloodstone offer two fascinating interpretations of March’s birthstone heritage.