What is the Birthstone for March?

What is the birthstone for March? Did you know that March babies have not one, but two stunning birthstones? That’s right – the serene Aquamarine and the powerful Bloodstone both claim March as their month. Each gem carries unique beauty, rich history, and symbolic meaning. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of March birthstones and explore gift ideas while learning more information about these stunning gemstones.

Aquamarine: The Gem of Tranquil Seas

Imagine the calming hues of the ocean – that’s Aquamarine. This gemstone is celebrated for its soothing blue shades, evoking feelings of peace, clarity, and renewal.

In fact, the name “aquamarine” has a beautiful and very fitting origin. The name comes directly from two Latin words: “aqua,”meaning “water” and “marina” meaning of the sea. This name is perfectly suited to the gemstone’s appearance, as its colors often resemble the clear, blue-green hues of the ocean.

Aquamarine’s History & Meaning

• Historically, sailors believed Aquamarine protected them on voyages, earning it the nickname ‘sailor’s stone.’
• The Romans used these blue-hued gemstones to mend relationships and solidify new friendships.
• The ancient Egyptians believed that aquamarine was a symbol of joy and youth.
• It symbolizes tranquility, harmony, and clear communication. Many believe it enhances intuition and brings calmness. To this day, many believe aquamarines help foster honesty, loyalty, and good health! Many wear these gemstones or keep aquamarine crystals near them for these reasons.

Aquamarine Properties & Care

Aquamarine ranks 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable for everyday wear. They are often sourced from Brazil, Pakistan, and Africa. In addition, these blue gems are also beryl minerals. Other common gemstones in this family are emeralds and morganite.

These March birthstones can range from nearly colorless to blue-green to deep blue. The darker the shade, the more valuable the stone, although slightly greenish-blue hues are highly desired.

HOW CAN I CLEAN MY AQUAMARINE?

There are plenty of “Do and Donts” when it comes to cleaning jewelry. Be sure to do your research before cleaning. Different gemstones have various cleaning requirements owners must adhere to so that they don’t damage their precious stones.

Cleaning your aquamarine with classic blue Windex and a soft children’s toothbrush is the best way to make this particular gemstone gleam. Use the toothbrush to wash away any grime or buildup gently.

If the item is very dirty, soak in the solution overnight. The low levels of ammonia help break away the dirt and grime in hard-to-reach places.

Please Note: If the stone is paired with pearls/opals/or softer stones, clean it with water and a blue dawn dish soap mixture. Use a soft T-shirt to wipe it clean.

Aquamarine Jewelry Ideas

The birthstone of March sure makes an excellent gift. With so many jewelry options to choose from, you can’t go wrong!

Aquamarine Rings:

Capture the essence of the ocean with an aquamarine ring. From the understated elegance of a solitaire to the intricate charm of filigree designs, aquamarine rings gracefully adorn the finger. Select a style that harmonizes with your personal aesthetic and budget, bringing a touch of tranquil beauty to your everyday look.

Aquamarine Bracelets:

Let the gentle shimmer of aquamarine grace your wrist. Whether it’s the delicate fluidity of a beaded bracelet, the timeless sparkle of a tennis bracelet, or the bold statement of a bangle, aquamarine bracelets make a thoughtful and luminous birthday gift, reflecting the serene beauty of March.

Aquamarine Earrings:

Add a whisper of ocean blue to your ensemble with aquamarine earrings. Choose the subtle elegance of classic studs or the graceful movement of Aquamarine dangles, perfect for enhancing your natural radiance on a special date night.

Aquamarine Pendants:

Keep the calming energy of Aquamarine close to your heart with a pendant that resonates with tranquility. Whether set in the cool shimmer of white gold or the warm glow of yellow gold, an aquamarine pendant shines with a serene brilliance, making it a cherished and meaningful piece.

No matter the jewelry piece, these blue-hued gemstones are the perfect gift for the March baby in your life.

Bloodstone: The Gem of Strength & Vitality

Bloodstone, with its deep green base and red flecks, is a gem of strength and vitality. It’s a striking contrast to Aquamarine, offering a powerful and grounding energy. It’s no surprise that bloodstone is a gem added into jewelry.

Bloodstones have a name rooted in both legend and their distinctive appearance. The “blood” aspect likely derives from the red flecks or spots of iron oxide within the predominantly dark green stone. These red inclusions were historically believed to be drops of Christ’s blood, solidifying the stone’s association with sacrifice and healing in Christian lore. However, long before this association, the stone’s name also reflected its perceived power to stop bleeding, further cementing the “blood” connection.

Bloodstone’s History & Meaning

• Bloodstone has a long history, often associated with healing and courage.
• Bloodstone has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, with beliefs that it could stop bleeding and promote healing. This association with blood gave it a strong reputation as a powerful healing stone.
• It’s also known as “heliotrope,” derived from the Greek words for “sun” and “turning.” Ancient writers, like Pliny the Elder, described how when placed in water, the stone seemed to reflect the sun with a reddish tint.

Bloodstone Properties & Care

• This gemstone is a variety of chalcedony, with a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Clean it with mild soap and water, and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• They can be found in India, Australia, and the United States. While India is a major source, bloodstone is found in various locations, and these origins affect the stones appearance. For example, Australian bloodstone can have a more bluish green base color.

Bloodstone Jewelry Ideas

Bloodstone pendants, bracelets, and rings make bold and unique statements. Consider a Bloodstone pendant for a touch of earthy elegance. Find unique Bloodstone jewelry at Arnold Jewelers.

Aquamarine vs. Bloodstone: Which is Right for You?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Can I wear both Aquamarine and Bloodstone?
  • A: Absolutely! Wearing both gems can balance their energies and create a unique look.
• Q: What are the best gifts for March birthdays?
  • A: Aquamarine and Bloodstone jewelry, personalized birthstone gifts, and March gemstone-themed accessories.
• Q: Where can I buy authentic March birthstone jewelry?
  • A: Shop our curated collection of high-quality Aquamarine and Bloodstone jewelry.

At Arnold Jewelers, bloodstones and aquamarines sing their siren songs loudly from the showcases, each piece calling to a particular person. Find these March birstone gems in the Tampa area at our store, Arnold Jewelers in Largo.