Windsor, California
Windsor, California
Aquamarine and bloodstone, March’s two birthstones, are very different when it comes to appearance, but they share a similar reputation for protecting one’s well-being. The aquamarine birthstone evokes the colors of the sea. From deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue hues, faceted aquamarines are often free from inclusions and as clear as water, symbolizing purity of spirit and soul. The bloodstone birthstone is typically a dark-green cabochon that contains red spots of iron oxide, the “blood” that brings health and strength to the wearer. Read on to learn more about these two March birthstones – what they mean and where they can be found.
Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin for seawater, and ancient mariners claimed the gem would calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea. This March birthstone was also thought to bring happiness in marriage. Beryl was believed to give the wearer protection against foes in battle and litigation. It was also thought to make the wearer unconquerable and amiable, and to quicken the intellect.
Aquamarine is not only the birthstone for March, but the gem is also given as a present on the 19th wedding anniversary.
Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, is a variety of chalcedony (cryptocrystalline quartz) that is traditionally semi-translucent to opaque dark green jasper with red inclusions of iron oxides, especially hematite. Bloodstone’s alternate name heliotrope comes from the ancient Greek word that means “to turn the sun.” In ancient times, these March birthstones were believed to turn the sun red if they were placed in water. The name bloodstone derives from the belief by some that the color pattern has religious significance, representing the blood of Christ.
Several metaphysical properties have been attributed to this March birthstone. They include increasing strength, giving invisibility, and preserving health and youth. In modern times, many believe the bloodstone birthstone to be a lucky charm, as it is prized by athletes and others who want to grow their strength. Even today in India, fine bloodstones may be crushed into a powder and used as an aphrodisiac.
Although bloodstone does not share the same beauty as the aquamarine March birthstone, many prize bloodstone for its special properties. Bloodstones used as gems are typically cut as cabochons, though some striking examples are faceted.
This pendant adds a splash of luxury to any look with its 18 karat white gold diamond set, scalloped halo design. It features 17 round, brilliant,...
View full detailsThis stunning 14k white gold necklace features a scroll halo pendant with a .98 carat natural oval aquamarine center stone and .14 carat total nat...
View full detailsThis glittering cushion shape aquamarine pendant is framed by a halo design of 28, SI clarity, near colorless, round brilliant cut diamonds, totali...
View full detailsA nicely colored natural blue oval shaped checkerboard cut aquamarine weighing 1.40 carats is bezel set and framed above and below with 20 sparklin...
View full detailsThe 14 karat white gold pendant contains a single cushion shaped aquamarine stone measuring 10 mm in length X 8 mm in width for an actual weight of...
View full detailsA large emerald cut “Santa Maria” blue aquamarine is set in this vintage, hand fabricated platinum estate pendant. The aquamarine is 30 carats (est...
View full detailsThe oval aquamarine in this sweet 14 karat yellow gold pendant measures 6.9 mm in length X 4.2 mm in width X 2.5 mm in depth and weighs .45 carats....
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