If you were born in March, consider yourself lucky—you have not one, but two stunning birthstones to celebrate your month. The captivating duo of aquamarine and bloodstone couldn’t be more different, yet both are steeped in ancient mystery, spiritual symbolism, and undeniable beauty.
One is as clear and tranquil as the ocean, evoking mermaids and sea breezes. The other is dark, moody, and powerful, conjuring images of warriors and legends. Despite their differences, these two gemstones share a rich history and tell a story that spans centuries. Let’s dive into the mesmerizing world of March birthstones and uncover what makes aquamarine and bloodstone truly special.
Aquamarine: The Ocean’s Jewel
Picture the crystal-clear waters of a tropical paradise—that’s aquamarine in gemstone form. This blue-to-green variety of beryl takes its name from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), and it’s easy to see why. With its glassy transparency and cool, tranquil hues, it looks like a drop of the ocean captured in stone.
Forming deep within the Earth’s crust, aquamarine emerges from granite pegmatites—mineral-rich rock formations. The presence of iron gives the gem its signature blue color, while varying levels of oxidation create shades ranging from pale sky blue to deep sea green. While Brazil is the most famous source, aquamarine is also found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan, and even the United States.
What makes aquamarine truly special is its remarkable clarity—a rare trait among gemstones. Unlike many others that often contain visible inclusions, high-quality aquamarine boasts an almost crystal-clear appearance, making it all the more coveted by jewelry lovers.
Bloodstone: The Warrior’s Amulet
If aquamarine is the tranquil sea, bloodstone is the storm—dark, enigmatic, and pulsing with strength. Unlike its ethereal counterpart, bloodstone is an opaque variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz distinguished by its deep green body flecked with iron-rich red hematite. These crimson specks resemble drops of blood, giving the stone its evocative name and mystical reputation.
Primarily sourced from India, Australia, and Brazil, bloodstones are often found embedded in riverbeds and rocky outcrops. Unlike aquamarine’s transparent brilliance, bloodstone possesses a waxy luster and a more earthy, subdued aesthetic. But what it lacks in sparkle, it more than makes up for with its rich history and deep symbolism.
The Mystical and Regal Allure
Aquamarine: The Stone of Sailors and Royalty
Legends whisper of ancient sailors who carried aquamarine as a talisman against raging storms and lurking sea monsters, believing it to be the treasure of mermaids. This ethereal gemstone was thought to ensure safe voyages and bring luck to those who braved the open ocean. Even today, aquamarine remains a symbol of calmness, protection, and clear communication, making it a cherished stone for those seeking inner peace and emotional clarity.
But aquamarine’s allure extends far beyond the seas. It has graced the jewelry boxes of royalty and Hollywood elites alike. One of the most famous aquamarine pieces in history is Queen Elizabeth II’s Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara—an extravagant gift from the people of Brazil, featuring large, mesmerizing aquamarines set in diamonds. More recently, Meghan Markle captivated the world when she wore Princess Diana’s iconic aquamarine ring at her wedding reception—a bold yet elegant choice that symbolized modern glamour with a touch of timeless grace.
March Birthstone: The Beautiful Aquamarine
Bloodstone: The Gem of Warriors and Kings
While aquamarine evokes the ocean’s serenity, bloodstone pulses with an entirely different kind of power. In ancient times, warriors carried bloodstone into battle, believing it granted them courage and unyielding strength. Roman soldiers often wore bloodstone amulets, convinced that the stone could stanch wounds and boost their stamina, turning the tide of war in their favor.
Medieval alchemists, too, revered bloodstone, claiming it had the power to purify the blood and enhance vitality. Some even believed the red flecks within the stone were actual drops of Christ’s blood, giving rise to its legendary moniker—the Martyr’s Stone. With such a storied past, it’s no surprise that bloodstone has endured as a symbol of resilience, endurance, and unshakable will for centuries.
Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism
In the world of metaphysics, aquamarine is revered as a stone of clarity, serenity, and emotional balance. Often used in meditation and energy healing, it is said to calm the mind and ease stress—like a deep breath for the soul.
Beyond its soothing nature, aquamarine is also associated with truth and communication, making it a favorite among public speakers, writers, and anyone seeking to express themselves with confidence. Closely linked to the throat chakra, it is believed to help one speak with honesty, wisdom, and authenticity.
Bloodstone, in contrast, radiates strength, endurance, and protection. Many believe it has powerful grounding properties, helping the wearer stay resilient through challenges. Known as a stone of courage and motivation, bloodstone has long been favored by athletes and those pushing their limits, both physically and mentally.
Because of its historical ties to blood and healing, bloodstone is also thought to stimulate vitality and purification—whether in a spiritual sense or as an energizing force for the body and mind.
Modern Showcases
Despite their ancient roots, both March birthstones have seamlessly transitioned into modern jewelry trends. Aquamarine, in particular, has become a favorite among high jewelry maisons, with luxury brands crafting breathtaking designs that highlight its serene blue hue. For instance, Van Cleef & Arpels, renowned for its poetic craftsmanship, has incorporated aquamarine into some of its most dazzling creations. A perfect example is the Lagune Précieuse necklace, which features an ethereal arrangement of aquamarines and diamonds, beautifully capturing the essence of a shimmering lagoon.
Beyond haute joaillerie, aquamarine continues to shine in contemporary jewelry, frequently chosen for engagement rings, statement necklaces, and drop earrings. Often set in white gold or platinum, the gem’s icy brilliance is further enhanced, making it a timeless and elegant choice.
On the other hand, bloodstone, while less commonly seen in modern fine jewelry, still holds a strong appeal for those who appreciate gemstones with deep historical significance. Rather than being used in traditional high jewelry, it is often crafted into signet rings, brooches, beaded bracelets, and carved talismans, appealing to those drawn to its bold, earthy aesthetic. Many contemporary designers have embraced its rugged charm, setting it in gold or sterling silver to create a vintage-meets-modern feel that resonates with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
From the peaceful energy of aquamarine to the bold strength of bloodstone, March birthstones offer a captivating blend of beauty and meaning. Whether showcased in high jewelry masterpieces or cherished as everyday accessories, these gemstones continue to enchant, proving that their allure is as timeless as ever.
Featured image: Tiffany & Co.
Lydia Oladejo is a creative writer with over seven years of experience writing intriguing stories and engaging content. As a Staff Writer at Sewelo, she explores the artistry and history of high jewelry, blending her expertise in storytelling with a passion for luxury design.
