March Birthstone
Birthstones are a concept that has woven folklore with natural gemstones over hundreds of years. There is a birthstone for each month of the year, although those born in March are lucky enough to have not one, but two birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone.
Though vastly different in appearance, they sit equal in terms of beauty and history. They could be described as the ‘yin and yang’ of March: Bloodstone with its dark and brooding shade of green and fiery hints of red, and aquamarine with its light, clear hue. Read on to find out more about these mesmerising March gems, including what they symbolise, where they are found, and their history.
Why are there two birthstones for March?
Bloodstone was once the traditional birthstone of March. When it became scarce, an alternative was sought, and so was later benched for aquamarine. Both gems have since been accepted as March birthstones.
Wearing a gemstone to represent your birth month is an idea that can be traced back to early 18th Century Poland, when gem traders reached the region. In modern times, birthstones are decided by The National Association of Jewellers— an industry body which also adjusts its lists based on economic shifts and evolving cultural preferences.
When it comes to the March birthstone, colour separates these two gemstones—with aquamarine and bloodstone each offering something special. While aquamarine is as blue and serene as the water of which it derives its name, bloodstone can evoke a certain magic with its dramatic greens and traces of red.
What is a bloodstone?
The bloodstone birthstone meaning
So, what is the March birthstone?
March Birthstones: Aquamarine
Aquamarine comes from the beryl family of gems, which includes emerald and morganite. Known for its ethereal ambiance, aquamarine comes in a range of shades, from a beautiful sky blue to an enigmatic blue-green.
In terms of durability, Aquamarine’s hardness rates a 7.5-8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, alongside emerald, amethyst and morganite. This makes it quite resistant when it comes to scratches and other abrasions.
Aquamarine stone meaning
Where is aquamarine found?
March Birthstone Jewellery
Looking for something special in birthstones? Shop from a wide range of March birthstone rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings for yourself or those celebrating a March birthday.
This type of jewellery isn't only for birthdays. It’s the kind of gift that can be given all year round: Celebrate your anniversary by presenting your partner with a birthstone ring or give your partner a necklace with your child’s birthstone to commemorate their birth.
Birthstone jewellery is forever sentimental and a great way to give a piece a truly personal touch.
Those born in March have a choice between wearing two strikingly different but equally stunning gems. Both aquamarine and bloodstone are beautiful in their own ways, offering distinctive colour and an impressive amount of lustre.
Head to your nearest Michael Hill store or visit our website to find that perfect piece of Aquamarine March birthstone jewellery.