Birthstone jewellery is as stunning as it is symbolic, and the March birthstone is no exception.
The birthstone for the month of March is the aesthetically-pleasing, elevates-literally-any-outfit hue of aquamarine.
March actually has two birthstones - aquamarine and bloodstone - but aquamarine has become the go-to gem stone of choice because bloodstone is less available (and less striking, in our humble opinion).
The clue is in the name with aquamarine: it comes in varying hues of blue and green and is often likened to the water thanks to its clear colour. Bloodstone, meanwhile, is dark-green and has little red spots of iron oxide, which is where the ‘blood’ moniker comes from. Aquamarine is said to promote marital happiness and superior intellect, whilst bloodstone is thought to bring health (hence the ‘blood’) and strength to whoever wears it.
Not only do they look good, birthstones are also imbued with mythology and healing powers, so it's little wonder they have been treasured since ancient times when 12 stones were associated with the 12 signs of the zodiac.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about March's modern and traditional birthstones, as well as the best to shop for every budget.
What is the real birthstone for March?
Bloodstone is the traditional birthstone for the springtime month of March but as it became less readily available and - whispers - less trendy, aquamarine was introduced as the modern March birthstone.
Bloodstone’s alternate name in Ancient Greek is heliotrope, which means “to turn the sun”. In ancient times, Greeks were convinced that bloodstones could turn the sun red after being popped in water.
The bloodstone was also used to carve religious subjects, particularly the Crucifixion. In 1525, a famous carving called ‘The Descent from the Cross’ featured bloodstone to symbolise Jesus Christ's drops of blood from his wounds. In fact, according to ancient mythology, bloodstone actually formed during his crucifixion, which is pretty major.
For a sparkling countdown to Christmas.
It's not as pretty as aquamarine but ever since the Middle Ages, bloodstone has been prized for its incredible healing properties. People were convinced it stopped nosebleeds, cured tumours and blood poisoning. Generally, bloodstone was thought to help boost strength and preserve health and youth (where do we sign up?). The premise still stands today and athletes often carry bloodstone to help enhance their strength training so if you're thinking about signing up for next year's marathon, it could be worth investing.
The Modern version of March's birthstone, aquamarine, has however become the more popular choice. The birthstone is often touted as the poor man's diamond and its moniker derives from the Latin word aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning the sea. Its hue ranges from light blue to dark blue-green stones and the naturally occurring deep blue stones are the most expensive because of their rarity. Jewellery fans may recall that in 1936, the Brazilian government #gifted First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt a stunning dark blue rectangular step-cut aquamarine. It weighed a whopping 1,298 carats and today lives in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York.
Aquamarine is also used to celebrate 19th wedding anniversaries and it complements pretty much every setting and metal colour because it doesn't contain any yellow.
The stone is mostly mined in Brazil but it was recently discovered in the Karakorum foothills of Pakistan where miners have to climb steep paths as high as 13,000 (!) feet to get their hands on the gem stone. Their efforts are worth it though; aquamarine from this area has been dubbed ‘water clear’.
Why does March have two birthstones?
Traditionally, each month has just one birthstone but over the years, some months have adopted more birthstones. The reason? To allow more affordable options in addition to the traditional, more expensive stones. Bloodstone fell out of favour - and fashion - and aquamarine quickly rose to prominence as the March birthstone of choice.
What does aquamarine symbolise?
Aquamarine - the Latin for seawater - was believed to have originated from the jewel caskets of sirens (humanlike beings with alluring voices that saved crews' lives) and were used by ancient mariners to ward off huge waves and keep sailors safe at sea. This association with the sea made aquamarine the sailors’ gem of choice, promising prosperous and safe voyages, as well as protection against perils and monsters of the sea. In fact, ancient Greeks apparently wore aquamarine amulets engraved with Poseidon (the Greek god of the sea) on a chariot when they journeyed by sea.
If you're looking to solidify your marriage, aquamarine can also boost happiness in marriage and sharpen intellect, too. We're sold on the aquamarine dream.
After more jewellery content? You're in luck because we've got plenty, including gold jewellery, gold hoop earrings and initial pendants. We've also got friendship bracelets, pearl jewellery, unique engagement rings, Missoma jewellery, Monica Vinader jewellery, resin rings a la Dua Lipa and clip on earrings (yes, really). We also have guides to the best September birthstone jewellery, October birthstone jewellery, November birthstone jewellery and December birthstone jewellery if you're looking to treat someone with a birthday in those months. You're most welcome.
