The Battle of the Birthstones: March Gemstones of the Month
March is a bit of a special month to celebrate gemstones – that’s because there are two to choose from! Whether you wear them separately or together, you are sure to enjoy the birthstones for this month.
The Gemstones for March
As stated above, the month of March offers two gemstones for jewelry lovers. Let’s explore each of them.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine stones range from light to dark blue, and some are blue and green. Throughout history, the aquamarine gemstone has been linked to the sea and other bodies of water. In Latin, aquamarine means “aquaticus,” which translates to the word “water.”
The aquamarine gemstone represents tranquility and relaxation.
Fast Facts About Aquamarine
- It is the gem for a 19th anniversary.
- It is believed that if you wear aquamarine, you will be protected during battle or a legal process.
- Some folk tales say that aquamarine has the power to strengthen marriages and make people more pleasant.
- Aquamarine can be treated by heat to change its color and make it more intense.
- This gemstone is found all over the world, but especially mined in Brazil, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Mozambique.
- One of the most famous aquamarine pieces was given to U.S. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1936 by the Brazilian government. You can find this 2.86 lb., emerald cut beauty in New York at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
- The largest aquamarine gemstone ever mined was named the Dom Pedro and weighs 10,363 cts.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone, or heliotrope, is dark green with flecks or “veins” of red, which are made of iron oxide. It is typically opaque with a bright shine. Bloodstone is a member of the quartz family. During ancient Roman times, bloodstone was used as a “good luck charm” to stop bleeding after an injury.
Bloodstone represents having a courageous spirit and has been believed to help ward off evil and negativity.
Fast Facts About Bloodstone
- It is the gem for a 14th anniversary.
- Some have believed throughout history, that if you wear bloodstone, you could redirect spiritual energies or become invisible.
- Some wearers of bloodstone say that the blood red color represents the foot of the cross during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Medieval Christians named bloodstone the “martyr’s gem.”
- The Aztecs used bloodstone to try to regulate blood flow and circulation.
- Bloodstone is found embedded in rocks or along riverbeds in India, Australia, the United States, Italy, South Africa, Germany, and Brazil, among other places.
- It can be ground up into a powdered form; in fact, during the Middle Ages, people used the powdered form to treat tumors and remove venom from snake bites.
- One of the most famous bloodstone gems is on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris. It was the seal of German Emperor Rudolf II.
- Bloodstone is considered to be more valuable by having a solid green color and easily visible red spots. Stones with brown spots or very little red are generally considered less valuable.
Although these stones are vastly different from one another, they can both be worn and appreciated in a variety of ways. Happy celebrating in March with either, or both stones! With an extensive and exclusive selection of beautiful, handcrafted jewelry, Munchel’s Fine Jewelry can help you find your perfect gemstones for any occasion.
About Munchel’s Fine Jewelry
Munchel’s Fine Jewelry Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We have been proudly serving Central Florida with quality jewelry and services for over three decades. Our commitment and dedication to our customers is what sets us apart. We offer a large selection of jewelry and collectible items, including coins, watches, lockets, and necklaces. In addition, we also buy, sell, and trade many types of timeless pieces. For more information, please contact us at (863) 619-6269 or visit our website at Munchels.com/.
