Birthstones / March

March Birthstone — Aquamarine, the Sailor's Gem

Aquamarine, the March birthstone, evokes the tranquil blue of calm seas. A member of the beryl mineral family (alongside emerald and morganite), aquamarine ranges from pale sky blue to deep teal. Its excellent clarity, Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, and large crystal sizes make it a favorite for statement jewelry pieces.

Traditional Birthstone

Bloodstone (heliotrope), a dark green chalcedony flecked with red jasper, is the traditional March birthstone from ancient lists. Bloodstone was believed to have formed from drops of Christ's blood at the crucifixion and was widely used for carved seals and religious medallions in the medieval period. It remains an alternative March birthstone today.

Modern Birthstone

Aquamarine was designated the primary modern March birthstone in 1912. The finest specimens come from Brazil's Minas Gerais, with notable deposits also in Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Mozambique. The Santa Maria variety from Brazil commands the highest prices for its intense saturated blue. Heat treatment is routinely applied to reduce greenish tints.

Symbolism & Meaning

Aquamarine symbolizes courage, serenity, and clear communication. Roman fishermen carried aquamarine as a talisman for safe voyages and bountiful catches. The gem is associated with the throat chakra and is believed to calm fears and promote honest, compassionate communication. It has long represented eternal youth, hope, and fidelity.

Historical Significance

The name comes from the Latin 'aqua marina,' meaning 'sea water.' Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder described aquamarine as a sailor's stone. Ancient mariners throughout the Mediterranean carried it for protection at sea. In the Middle Ages, aquamarine was thought to reawaken married love and was a popular gift between spouses. The largest gem-quality aquamarine ever found, the Dom Pedro, weighed 10,363 carats and resides in the Smithsonian.

March Birthstone Gems

Aquamarine

Semi-Precious Gems
Hardness 7.5
Type modern

Bloodstone (Heliotrope)

Semi-Precious Gems
Hardness 6.5
Type traditional

Jasper

Semi-Precious Gems
Hardness 6.5
Type alternative

Gift Guide

Aquamarine makes an elegant March birthday gift and commemorates the 19th wedding anniversary. Its pastel blue complements both silver and gold settings beautifully. Solitaire pendants and cocktail rings showcase aquamarine's clarity, while earrings in lighter tones offer a subtle, everyday luxury.

Care & Handling

Aquamarine is relatively hardy at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and suitable for daily wear. However, sudden temperature changes can cause fracturing in included stones. Clean with warm soapy water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, inclusion-free specimens. Heat-treated aquamarines are stable and require no special care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the March birthstone?
The birthstones for March are Aquamarine, Bloodstone (Heliotrope), Jasper.
What does the March birthstone symbolize?
Aquamarine symbolizes courage, serenity, and clear communication. Roman fishermen carried aquamarine as a talisman for safe voyages and bountiful catches. The gem is associated with the throat chakra and is believed to calm fears and promote honest, compassionate communication. It has long represent
What is the difference between the traditional and modern March birthstone?
Traditional: Bloodstone (heliotrope), a dark green chalcedony flecked with red jasper, is the traditional March birthstone from ancient lists. Bloodstone was belie Modern: Aquamarine was designated the primary modern March birthstone in 1912. The finest specimens come from Brazil's Minas Gerais, with notable deposits als
How do you care for March birthstone jewelry?
Aquamarine is relatively hardy at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and suitable for daily wear. However, sudden temperature changes can cause fracturing in included stones. Clean with warm soapy water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, inclusion-free specimens. Heat-treated a
What are good March birthstone gift ideas?
Aquamarine makes an elegant March birthday gift and commemorates the 19th wedding anniversary. Its pastel blue complements both silver and gold settings beautifully. Solitaire pendants and cocktail rings showcase aquamarine's clarity, while earrings in lighter tones offer a subtle, everyday luxury.
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