Birthstones add a personal and meaningful touch to any piece of jewelry, and for those born in March, you get the unique beauty of not one, but two captivating stones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Each of these March birthstones brings its own charm, history, and symbolism, making them popular choices for both everyday wear and meaningful gifts.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What is March’s birthstone?” or are looking for the perfect stone to gift someone special, this guide will help you explore the color, meaning, and style of each gem. Enjoy!
What Is March’s Birthstone?
Traditionally, March’s birthstone was bloodstone, a deep green gem flecked with red. But in modern birthstone lists, aquamarine was added, and quickly became the more widely known and celebrated of the two. Both stones offer stunning natural beauty and rich symbolism.
Today, most jewelry pieces labeled with a gemstone for March feature aquamarine. Still, both gems are recognized and valued, each offering a different aesthetic for the March-born to enjoy.
Aquamarine: March’s Modern Birthstone
Aquamarine, from the Latin "aqua marina" meaning “sea water,” is a pale to vibrant blue gemstone that evokes the calm, clear beauty of the ocean. Its soft blue hues range from nearly colorless to deeper blue-greens, often resembling tropical waters.
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, the same family as emerald, and is prized for its transparency and subtle elegance.
Aquamarine Meaning and Symbolism
Aquamarine meaning is deeply tied to themes of tranquility, clarity, and harmony. Historically, it was believed to calm tempers, soothe anxiety, and protect sailors at sea. In metaphysical traditions, aquamarine is thought to bring peace to relationships and encourage open, honest communication.
As a March birthstone, aquamarine represents youth, vitality, and serenity, ideal for those seeking a fresh start or embracing a gentle but confident approach to life.
Aquamarine in Jewelry
Aquamarine is a popular choice for all types of fine jewelry. From classic aquamarine engagement rings to elegant pendants and earrings, this gemstone’s cool color complements both white and yellow gold beautifully. Its durability (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale) also makes it practical for daily wear.
Aquamarine’s timeless elegance and symbolic value make it a stunning gift for a March birthday, a spring anniversary, or even just because.
Bloodstone: March’s Traditional Gemstone
Bloodstone is a type of dark green chalcedony speckled with red inclusions of iron oxide, which resemble spots of blood, hence its name. It’s often opaque and carries a more earthy, rugged appeal compared to aquamarine’s sparkle.
This March stone has a distinctive, grounded look that makes it especially fitting for men's jewelry, talismans, or artisanal accessories.
Bloodstone Meaning and Symbolism
Historically, bloodstone was believed to have powerful healing properties and protective energy. Ancient warriors wore it as an amulet for courage, while others valued it as a stone of strength and purification. Today, it’s still seen as a stone of resilience and vitality, representing the life force and spiritual endurance.
Bloodstone in Jewelry
While not as mainstream as aquamarine, bloodstone offers a bold and unique option for those seeking something more unconventional. It works beautifully in rings, cufflinks, and pendants, especially when paired with oxidized silver or matte gold settings.
Bloodstone may appeal to those who favor antique or vintage styles, or anyone looking to honor March birthstones in a less traditional way.
Choosing Between Aquamarine and Bloodstone
When deciding between these two birthstones for March, your choice may come down to personal taste or what the gift represents.
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Choose aquamarine if you’re drawn to elegance, lightness, and the ocean-inspired glow of blue gemstones. It’s a great match for formal and contemporary styles.
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Choose bloodstone if you prefer bold, earthy tones, deeper symbolism, or handcrafted pieces with a vintage or mystical flair.
Either way, both March birthstones carry rich histories and deeply meaningful associations. Whether you wear them for their symbolism, their beauty, or both, they serve as powerful personal totems.
How to Care for March Birthstones
Aquamarine is a relatively hard gemstone, but it can be sensitive to heat and certain cleaning methods. To maintain its brilliance, it's best to clean aquamarine jewelry with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone. When not being worn, aquamarine should be stored separately from other pieces to prevent scratches.
Bloodstone, on the other hand, is softer, ranking around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, so it requires more delicate care. Clean bloodstone with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning methods. It's best to store it in a soft pouch to prevent scratches or chips, and to keep it away from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause the color to fade over time.
Give the Gift of March’s Birthstones with Peter Franklin
At Peter Franklin Jewelers, we celebrate every birth month with thoughtfully curated fine jewelry, featuring beautiful, ethically sourced gems like aquamarine and bloodstone. Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone special, our selection of March birthstone pieces offers something elegant, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind.
Looking for a soft aquamarine pendant, a bold bloodstone ring, or a custom design that honors a March birthday in a unique way? We’re here to help. Visit any of our locations or explore our collection online to find the perfect March stone.
