March Birthstone: Complete Guide to Aquamarine and Bloodstone

What Is the March Birthstone?

The March birthstone is unique because people born in March have two official birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Although these gemstones look completely different, they have shared the title of March birthstone for generations and each carries its own fascinating history, symbolism, and appeal.

Aquamarine is the modern birthstone and is the gemstone most people associate with March birthdays. It is admired for its crystal-clear blue color that resembles the ocean.

Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, is the traditional March birthstone. Its deep green body decorated with striking red flecks has made it a symbol of courage, strength, and resilience for thousands of years.

Whether you're shopping for jewelry, learning about birthstones, or searching for the perfect birthday gift, understanding both gemstones helps you choose the one that best matches your personality and style.

Why Does March Have Two Birthstones?

Many months have more than one official birthstone because gemstone traditions have evolved throughout history.

Originally, bloodstone was recognized as the gemstone representing March. Later, jewelry organizations introduced aquamarine as the modern alternative because of its growing popularity, brilliant color, and excellent durability. Today, both are officially recognized and widely accepted worldwide.

This gives March-born individuals two completely different options:

• Aquamarine for elegance, serenity, and timeless beauty
• Bloodstone for history, protection, and bold individuality

Aquamarine: The Modern March Birthstone

What Is Aquamarine?

Aquamarine belongs to the beryl mineral family, the same family that includes emerald and morganite.

Its beautiful blue shades are produced by small amounts of iron within the crystal structure. Colors range from:

• Nearly colorless
• Pale sky blue
• Blue-green
• Rich ocean blue
• Deep sea blue

The name comes from the Latin phrase meaning "water of the sea," perfectly describing its tranquil appearance.

Aquamarine Meaning

For centuries, aquamarine has represented:

• Calmness
• Peace
• Courage
• Honesty
• Communication
• Emotional balance
• Hope
• Protection

Sailors believed aquamarine protected them during dangerous sea voyages, while many cultures viewed it as a symbol of eternal youth and happiness.

Although these meanings come from folklore rather than scientific evidence, they continue to make aquamarine one of the world's most meaningful gemstones.

Aquamarine Color

Color is the single most important factor determining an aquamarine's beauty and value.

The finest stones display:

• Pure medium blue
• Slight green-blue tones
• Excellent transparency
• High clarity

Most aquamarines are naturally very clean, meaning they contain few visible inclusions.

Where Is Aquamarine Found?

Major aquamarine deposits are located in:

• Brazil
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Madagascar
• Mozambique
• Zambia

Brazil remains the world's most famous source, producing many of the largest and finest-quality aquamarines ever discovered.

Aquamarine Hardness

Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for:

• Engagement rings
• Everyday rings
• Necklaces
• Earrings
• Bracelets
• Pendants

Its durability makes it one of the best birthstones for daily wear.

Bloodstone: The Traditional March Birthstone

What Is Bloodstone?

Bloodstone is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz.

Unlike transparent aquamarine, bloodstone is opaque and instantly recognizable by its:

• Dark green base
• Bright red spots
• Smooth polished appearance

The red markings come from iron oxide minerals.

Bloodstone has been treasured for thousands of years and remains one of history's most legendary gemstones.

Bloodstone Meaning

Throughout history, bloodstone has symbolized:

• Strength
• Vitality
• Courage
• Protection
• Determination
• Endurance
• Confidence

Ancient warriors often carried bloodstone into battle, believing it brought bravery and protection.

During the Middle Ages, it was also associated with healing traditions and spiritual protection.

Bloodstone Appearance

Every bloodstone is unique.

Typical features include:

• Deep forest green color
• Bright red speckles
• Occasional yellow or white accents
• Smooth polished finish

Unlike aquamarine, bloodstone is usually cut into cabochons instead of faceted gemstones.

Bloodstone Hardness

Bloodstone measures approximately 6.5–7 on the Mohs hardness scale.

While durable enough for everyday jewelry, it requires slightly more care than aquamarine to avoid scratches.

Aquamarine vs Bloodstone

Both gemstones make exceptional birthday gifts but appeal to different tastes.

March Birthstone Meaning in Different Cultures

Many civilizations attached symbolic meanings to March birthstones.

Ancient Rome

Aquamarine was believed to calm stormy seas and ensure safe journeys.

Ancient Greece

The gemstone was associated with Poseidon, the god of the sea.

Medieval Europe

Aquamarine symbolized truth and faithful marriage.

Ancient India

Bloodstone represented courage and life force.

Christian Tradition

Bloodstone became connected with sacrifice and resilience through medieval legends.

These stories helped both gemstones remain culturally significant for centuries.

Which Zodiac Signs Are Connected to March Birthstones?

March includes two zodiac signs:

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Aquamarine is often associated with Pisces because it reflects:

• Compassion
• Creativity
• Intuition
• Emotional harmony

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Bloodstone is commonly linked to Aries due to its symbolism of:

• Determination
• Leadership
• Confidence
• Energy

These associations come from traditional gemstone lore rather than astrology-based evidence.

March Birthstone Jewelry

March birthstones appear in many jewelry styles.

Popular aquamarine jewelry includes:

• Solitaire rings
• Halo rings
• Tennis bracelets
• Stud earrings
• Drop earrings
• Pendants
• Necklaces

Bloodstone is commonly found in:

• Signet rings
• Men's jewelry
• Cabochon pendants
• Bracelets
• Vintage-inspired designs

Because the two gemstones have completely different appearances, they suit very different personal styles.

How Much Is the March Birthstone Worth?

Aquamarine Value

The price depends on:

• Color intensity
• Clarity
• Size
• Origin
• Cut quality

Highly saturated blue stones are considerably more valuable than pale specimens.

Bloodstone Value

Bloodstone is generally much more affordable.

Its value depends primarily on:

• Rich green color
• Bright red inclusions
• Attractive pattern
• Overall polish

Large bloodstones are relatively accessible compared with many transparent gemstones.

Is Aquamarine Heat Treated?

Yes.

Most natural aquamarines sold today have been gently heat treated to remove greenish tones and enhance their blue appearance.

This treatment is:

• Permanent
• Stable
• Widely accepted within the gemstone industry

Heat treatment does not make the gemstone synthetic.

How to Care for March Birthstones

Cleaning Aquamarine

Clean using:

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• Soft toothbrush
• Soft microfiber cloth

Avoid sudden temperature changes if the gemstone contains fractures.

Cleaning Bloodstone

Use:

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• Soft cloth

Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

Proper care helps preserve the gemstone's beauty for many years.

How to Choose the Best March Birthstone

When buying aquamarine, consider:

• Rich blue color
• Excellent clarity
• Symmetrical cut
• Good transparency
• Secure jewelry setting

When selecting bloodstone, look for:

• Deep green body color
• Bright red markings
• Balanced pattern
• Smooth polish
• High-quality craftsmanship

Choosing a gemstone based on personal preference often matters more than rarity alone.

March Birthstone Anniversary

Aquamarine is also the traditional gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary, making it a meaningful gift for couples celebrating nearly two decades of marriage.

Fascinating Facts About the March Birthstone

Aquamarine Facts

• Belongs to the same mineral family as emerald.
• The name means "water of the sea."
• Large crystals weighing hundreds of carats are relatively common.
• Most high-quality stones are eye-clean.
• It remains one of the most popular blue gemstones in the world.

Bloodstone Facts

• Also known as heliotrope.
• Has been used for over 2,000 years.
• The red spots are created by iron oxide.
• Historically carried as a protective talisman.
• Every stone displays a unique natural pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the birthstone for March?

March has two official birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine is the modern birthstone, while bloodstone is the traditional alternative.

Why does March have two birthstones?

Gemstone traditions evolved over time. Bloodstone was historically associated with March, while aquamarine later became the modern official birthstone due to its popularity and availability.

Which March birthstone is more valuable?

In most cases, high-quality aquamarine is considerably more valuable than bloodstone because of its transparency, rarity in fine color grades, and demand in jewelry.

Is aquamarine a precious gemstone?

Aquamarine is classified as a semi-precious gemstone, although exceptional specimens can be highly valuable.

Can you wear aquamarine every day?

Yes. With a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday jewelry when properly cared for.

What does bloodstone symbolize?

Bloodstone traditionally represents courage, strength, vitality, resilience, and protection.

Which March birthstone makes the best gift?

Aquamarine is ideal for those who appreciate elegant blue gemstones and timeless jewelry. Bloodstone is perfect for someone who enjoys distinctive gemstones with rich historical symbolism.

What colors are March birthstones?

Aquamarine ranges from pale blue to deep ocean blue, while bloodstone features a dark green background with vivid red flecks.

Final Thoughts

March is one of the few months blessed with two official birthstones, each offering a completely different personality. Aquamarine captivates with its tranquil blue hues, exceptional clarity, and association with calm seas and honest communication. Bloodstone stands apart with its dramatic green-and-red appearance and centuries of symbolism tied to courage, resilience, and protection.

Whether you're celebrating a March birthday, searching for meaningful jewelry, or simply exploring gemstone traditions, both aquamarine and bloodstone provide timeless beauty, fascinating history, and enduring significance. Their contrasting colors, stories, and symbolism ensure that everyone born in March can find a birthstone that reflects their unique style and character.