The March birthstone is special because it includes not one, but two unique gems: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. These stones are linked to the month of March through modern and traditional birthstone lists. If you’re wondering about the birthstone for the month of March, you’ll find that both gems offer their own beauty, history, and symbolism.
In this guide, we explore the colors, meanings, origins, and characteristics of each March gemstone, so you can understand the full significance of this birth month.
Table of Contents
What Is the March Birthstone?
The March birthstone is primarily Aquamarine, a gemstone known for its serene sea-blue color and clarity. However, Bloodstone is also recognized as a traditional March stone. Together, they represent strength, calmness, and vitality, making them meaningful and attractive options for people born in March.
Modern birthstone charts typically list Aquamarine as the official March birthstone, while Bloodstone continues to hold value in traditional gemstone lore. Whether you’re choosing the March birthstone for jewelry or learning about your birth month’s gem, both stones carry cultural and aesthetic appeal.
Aquamarine: The Primary March Birthstone
Color and Appearance
The Aquamarine birthstone is best known for its stunning light-blue to blue-green shades. Its name comes from the Latin for “water of the sea,” and its color reflects that beautifully. High-quality aquamarines are typically transparent, with a glassy luster and minimal inclusions. As the aquamarine birthstone month, March is associated with tranquility, courage, and clarity.
Origins and Locations
Aquamarine is found in several countries, including Brazil (the largest supplier), Pakistan, Nigeria, and Madagascar. It belongs to the beryl family of minerals—making it a cousin of emerald. The widespread availability of aquamarine makes it both affordable and highly prized.
Symbolism and Use
Historically, sailors believed that aquamarine could calm waves and protect them at sea. While modern understanding recognizes these beliefs as myth, they reveal the gemstone’s long-standing connection with peace and safe travel. Today, aquamarine is often used in rings, necklaces, and earrings as a timeless symbol of serenity and honesty.
Bloodstone: The Traditional March Birthstone
Appearance and Color
The March birthstone bloodstone is a dark green variety of chalcedony that features distinctive red spots caused by iron oxide. This dramatic contrast gives bloodstone its name and sets it apart visually from aquamarine. It’s an opaque gem with a deep, earthy feel.
History and Symbolism
Known as bloodstone birthstone for centuries, this gem was once believed to have mystical powers, including healing and strength. Though these are considered myths today, bloodstone remains an important part of March stone birthstone history.
Where It’s Found
Bloodstone is commonly found in India, Brazil, and Australia. It’s not as commonly used in modern jewelry as aquamarine but still valued for unique, antique-style designs and collectors’ pieces.
Choosing Between Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Both March gemstones are beautiful in their own way. Aquamarine offers a cool, bright elegance that works well in a variety of jewelry settings, while bloodstone offers depth and bold contrast. Your personal preference or interest in modern vs. traditional styles can guide your choice of the birthstone for March.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the March birthstone?
The March birthstone includes both Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Aquamarine is the modern birthstone, while bloodstone is traditionally linked to March.
What color is the March birthstone?
The March birthstone color depends on the gem: aquamarine ranges from pale blue to blue-green, while bloodstone is deep green with red flecks.
Is aquamarine the only March stone?
No. While aquamarine is the primary modern March stone, bloodstone is also historically recognized as a birthstone for the month of March.
Why are there two March birthstones?
Many birth months have both modern and traditional gemstones. March birthstone bloodstone predates aquamarine but both are now widely accepted.
Conclusion
The March birthstone offers a rich combination of history, beauty, and meaning through Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Whether you’re drawn to the cool blue tones of aquamarine birthstone jewelry or the earthy strength of bloodstone, each gem provides a unique way to celebrate the aquamarine birthstone month.
As the birthstone for the month of March, these gems symbolize courage, clarity, and vitality, making them perfect for March birthdays or for anyone who appreciates the beauty of natural gemstones.
Want to explore the full list of birthstones and see how your gem fits into the calendar year? Visit our Birthstones by Month guide for a complete overview of each month’s birthstone, their meanings, and links to detailed articles.