March was named for Mars (the Roman god of War). Wars had ceased for the winter. March marks the beginning of spring and time for returning to war. March has two birthstones; Aquamarine and Bloodstone.
The original birthstone for March was the Bloodstone. In 1952 the Aquamarine became the primary March birthstone. Aquamarine gets its name from two Latin words “aqua,” meaning water, and “mare,” meaning sea, because it looked like seawater. Much of Greek and Roman mythology concerning the Aquamarine carries stories of the sea, mermaids (sirens ), and safety from disaster on the sea.
The Aquamarine is a blue variety of beryl stone. The emerald is a green variety of beryl stone.
5 Things Jewelry Lovers Want to Know About the March Birthstone
- The Aquamarine is also given on the 19th wedding anniversary.
- First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt received an Aquamarine weighing 1,298 carats from the government of Brazil.
- An Aquamarine weighing 240 lbs was found in Brazil.
- An Aquamarine believed to be the largest faceted in the world is 10,363 carats.
- Celebrities who have birthdays in March: Justin, Bieber, Shaquille O’Neal, Queen Latifah, Spike Lee, Lady Gaga, Oscar Isaac, and Common
Most Questions Ask About the Birthstones in March
#1 What are the 2 Birthstones for March?
The two birthstones for the month of March are Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Aquamarine the modern and now official March birthstone. Bloodstone was the traditional birthstone and is considered the alternative gemstone because of its unusual gemstone history and gothic color palette.
#2 What is the Meaning of Aquamarine and Bloodstone?
Aquamarine Gemstone
Aquamarine symbolizes honesty, faithfulness and beauty. It is often associated with courage, loyalty, devotion and friendship. Aquamarine is also said to heighten awareness, improve communication skills, and encourage quick response.
Bloodstone Gemstone
Bloodstone is believed to bring success, vitality, and good health.
Both gems are believed to protect the wearer’s well-being.
#3 What is the Traditional and the Modern Birthstone For March
- Traditional birthstones originated in Poland between the 16th and 18th centuries.
- A new list of “modern birthstones” was decided by the National Association of Jewelers. Changes are still made once in awhile.
- The traditional birthstone for March was the Bloodstone.
- When Bloodstone became less available and therefore more expensive Aquamarine was selected as the modern birthstone for March in 1952.
#4 What is the March Birthstone Color?
Aquamarine Gemstone
Aquamarine ranges from deep blue to pale green-blue and appears as if it had just been washed up on shore from the depths of the sea. Which is probably why tradition believes the Aquamarine came from deep beneath the sea washed up from the jewel boxes of sirens.
Bloodstone Gemstone
Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, which means “to turn to the sun,” is dark green with red spots. The story goes that when Christ died on the cross, his blood splashed upon green stones, and the Bloodstone was born.
#5 What does real aquamarine look like?
The best way to identify a real aquamarine stone is by examining its color. In its natural form, Aquamarines are a pale blue color, which is similar to seawater. They may have a slightly green or yellow tint as well. Naturally occurring gems have excellent clarity and transparency.
#6 Who Can Wear Aquamarine Jewelry?
Aquamarine‘s lovely cool tones may be worn by all skin types. Aquamarine has a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is a durable gem allowing for everyday wear. Aquamarine is well suited to be worn with both romantic and business clothing.
#7 What is Pisces birthstone?
There are two gemstones associated with Pisces: Amethyst and Aquamarine. People born between February 19-March 20 are considered Pisceans. Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. This gives you a lovely choice. Bloodstone is also a March birthstone.
#8 What are Typical March Birthstone Earrings?
14K White Gold Oval Aquamarine and Diamond Leverback Earrings
EG13563W45AQ
$870
14K White Gold Teardrop Aquamarine and Diamond Drop Earrings
EG12195W44AQ
$1,200
14K White Gold AQ – Aquamarine Halo Stud Earrings
EG11000W45AQ
$640
#9 What are Typical March Birthstone Necklaces?
14K White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Halo Pendant Necklace
NK2824W45AQ
$510
18 inch 14K White Gold Round Aquamarine and Diamond Halo Pendant Necklace
NK6143W45AQ
$950
14K White Gold Round Aquamarine and Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace
NK5981W45AQ
$570
#10 What are Typical March Birthstone Rings?
14K White Gold Oval Aquamarine and Diamond Three Stone Ring
LR51435W45AQ
$715
14K White Gold Oval Halo Aquamarine and Diamond Ring
LR4422W45AQ
$1,115
14K White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Ring
LR50951W45AQ
$1,375
Care and Cleaning of Aquamarine
- The Aquamarine is 7.5 to 8 in hardness on the Mohs scale.
- To clean, wash with soap in warm, not hot water.
- Extreme temperature change may cause thermal shock which could cause the gem to crack.
- Intense light may cause your gems to change color.
- Always wrap your jewelry when storing to prevent scratching.
- Take jewelry off when cleaning or anytime they may be exposed to harsh chemicals.
Historical Stories and Facts Around Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Roman fishermen called Aquamarine “water of the sea”. It was believed it would provide protection and luck in catching fish. Romans doctors thought it would help with overeating and bloating. Romans thought Aquamarine was sacred to Neptune, their god of the sea. According to a Roman legend, “When blessed and worn, it joins in love and does great things.”
In the 1500’s the royal astrologer and consultant Dr. John Dee used an aquamarine to predict the optimal date for the coronation of Elizabeth 1st.
Megan Markle's wore Princess Diana’s Aquamarine at her wedding reception to Prince Harry.
March celebrates the beginning of Spring. It promises hope and new beginnings. Aquamarine is a lovely way to celebrate love and friendship. Come in to Joseph’s Jewelry and see the beautiful assortment of Aquamarine jewelry available for your delight.
The Sailors’ Gemstone
It’s not just Aquamarines name which links it to the sea, but was a popular gemstone amongst sailors. When leaving on long voyages, sailors would take with them an aquamarine stone to protect them from seasickness and any unexpected accidents.
Mermaid Treasure
At Joseph’s Jewelry, we carry numerous elegant Aquamarine jewelry pieces catering to every budget, and desired style. We are here to help residents in Stuart, Palm City, Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Jupiter and Port St. Lucie to find your perfect jewelry piece, complete a jewelry set, or make a custom jewelry design as unique as you are! We will also repair and restore your jewelry pieces and watches whether or not they were purchased through us. Come in anytime to check out our unique diamond rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings, and Citizen Eco Drive watches in stock for a celebration, last-minute gift, or spontaneous surprise.