March has two birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl, and it serves as the modern primary birthstone for March.
Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony with red iron oxide inclusions, and it is the traditional birthstone, recognized as the original March stone prior to the 1912 standardization of the modern birthstone list.
Table of Contents
What Is the March Birthstone?
March has two officially recognized birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. The American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) both list aquamarine as the primary modern birthstone for March. Bloodstone is listed as the traditional alternative. Both are valid birthstones for anyone born in March.
| Attribute | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral family | Beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈) | Chalcedony / Jasper (SiO₂) |
| Color | Pale blue to deep blue-green | Dark green with red/brown spots |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 – 8 | 6.5 – 7 |
| Transparency | Transparent | Opaque |
| Primary sources | Brazil, Mozambique, Nigeria, Madagascar | India, Australia, Brazil |
| Zodiac alignment | Pisces (strong); Aries (moderate) | Aries (primary); Pisces (secondary) |
| Historical designation | Modern (standardized 1912) | Traditional (used since antiquity) |
| Anniversary use | 19th wedding anniversary | Not standardized |
| Classification | Semi-precious gemstone | Semi-precious gemstone |
| GIA clarity type | Type I (often eye-clean) | Opaque; clarity not graded |
The dual-stone designation results from the 1912 American National Retail Jewelers Association standardization, which added aquamarine to the birthstone list alongside bloodstone. Prior to 1912, bloodstone alone was recognized as the March birthstone in most Western traditions.
March Birthstone Color – Aquamarine and Bloodstone
The primary March birthstone color is blue to blue-green, characteristic of aquamarine. Bloodstone, the traditional stone, is dark green with distinctive red and rust-brown spots caused by iron oxide inclusions.
Aquamarine Color
Aquamarine ranges from pale icy blue to deep oceanic blue-green. The GIA evaluates aquamarine color across three components: hue, tone, and saturation.
| Color Characteristic | Description | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Hue | Pure blue to slightly greenish-blue | Most valued: pure blue or slightly greenish-blue |
| Tone | Very light to medium (rarely dark) | Medium tone preferred; very light appears washed out |
| Saturation | Low to moderate (rarely vivid) | Higher saturation commands premium |
| Least valued | Strong green or yellowish-blue modifier | Reduces the price significantly |
The most commercially prized aquamarine color is a medium-toned pure blue or slightly bluish-green with good saturation. Brazilian material from the Santa Maria do Itabira mine historically produces the deepest, most saturated blue, referred to in the trade as “Santa Maria” aquamarine. This designation commands a market premium.
90% or more of commercially available aquamarines have been heat-treated to improve color. The treatment involves heating the rough stone to approximately 400–450°C, which removes greenish or yellowish tones and produces a purer blue appearance. Heat treatment of aquamarine is permanent, stable under normal conditions, and widely accepted in the gemstone trade. However, consumer-facing content rarely discloses this practice upfront.
The distinction between treated and untreated aquamarine affects value. Untreated stones with a natural saturated blue color command significant premiums but require laboratory certification to verify.
Bloodstone Color
Bloodstone is dark forest green with irregular red, rust-brown, or orange spots and streaks caused by hematite and iron oxide inclusions. The stone belongs to the chalcedony branch of the quartz family and is also known as heliotrope, blood jasper, and in some historical traditions as the Martyr’s Stone or Christ’s Stone.
| Color Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Base color | Dark forest green to blackish-green |
| Spot color | Red, rust-brown, or orange |
| Spot cause | Hematite or jasper iron oxide inclusions |
| Pattern | Irregular; no two stones identical |
| Transparency | Opaque |
The red spots in bloodstone are the defining quality characteristic. Stones with vivid, well-distributed red markings on a dark green base command higher prices than those with minimal or poorly contrasting spots.
Aquamarine – The Primary March Birthstone
Aquamarine is the dominant March birthstone by search volume, commercial availability, and modern birthstone list recognition. It accounts for approximately 85% of all “March birthstone” searches, according to search data analysis.
Aquamarine Mineral Properties
Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of beryl, the same mineral family as emerald and morganite. Its blue color results from trace amounts of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) within the crystal lattice. The chemical formula is Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈ |
| Color agent | Ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 – 8 |
| Refractive index | 1.567 – 1.590 |
| Specific gravity | 2.68 – 2.74 |
| Cleavage | Imperfect; one direction |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| GIA clarity type | Type I (typically eye-clean in nature) |
Aquamarine Sources and Origins
Brazil is the world’s primary source of gem-quality aquamarine, with the Minas Gerais state producing the majority of the commercial supply, including historically significant Santa Maria material. Additional producing countries include Mozambique, Nigeria, Madagascar, Pakistan, Zambia, and Russia.
| Origin | Characteristics | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil (Minas Gerais) | Full color range; Santa Maria designation for deep blue | Primary world supplier; premium for Santa Maria |
| Mozambique | Typically lighter blue; good transparency | Growing commercial supply |
| Nigeria | Often greenish-blue; good saturation | Secondary market supplier |
| Madagascar | Variable; some fine blue material | Emerging source |
| Pakistan | Often included; some high-color stones | Artisanal mining primarily |
Aquamarine Heat Treatment – What Buyers Need to Know
Approximately 90% or more of commercially sold aquamarines are heat-treated to remove green and yellow tones. This produces a purer blue color that commands higher consumer demand. The treatment is applied at temperatures of approximately 400–450°C.
| Treatment Type | Effect | Permanence | Disclosure Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat treatment (standard) | Removes green/yellow tones; produces pure blue | Permanent and stable | Rarely disclosed in retail settings |
| No treatment (rare) | Natural color; may retain greenish or lighter tone | N/A | Requires laboratory certification |
The price impact of treatment versus no treatment in aquamarine is less severe than in emerald, because heat treatment in aquamarine is universally accepted as a stable and standard practice. Unlike emerald oiling, aquamarine heat treatment does not require ongoing maintenance or affect long-term durability. However, for investment-grade stones, laboratory certification confirming “no heat treatment” does carry a value premium for collectors.
For any aquamarine purchase over 2 carats intended as an investment or heirloom piece, request a laboratory report from GIA, the American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), or the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) confirming treatment status.
Bloodstone – The Traditional March Birthstone
Bloodstone is the original March birthstone, recognized in ancient, medieval, and traditional European birthstone systems prior to the 1912 modern list. Its historical significance predates aquamarine’s association with March by at least 1,500 years.
Bloodstone Historical Significance
Bloodstone has been used in jewelry, seals, and amulets since at least the 3rd century BCE. The stone appears in ancient Babylonian, Greek, and Roman contexts as a protective talisman. Medieval European traditions attributed wound-healing properties to the stone, leading to its widespread use in ecclesiastical seals and physician talismans. The name “Heliotrope” comes from the Greek helios (sun) and trepein (to turn), referencing ancient beliefs about the stone’s optical properties when placed in water.
In Christian medieval Europe, bloodstone was called the Martyr’s Stone. Tradition held that the red spots represented the blood of Christ, making it a common material for devotional objects and religious carvings. Several Renaissance-era bloodstone carvings of religious figures survive in European museum collections.
Bloodstone Mineral Properties
Bloodstone is an opaque variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of silica (SiO₂). It belongs to the jasper branch of the chalcedony family. The green base color comes from chlorite inclusions, while the red spots result from hematite or other iron oxide minerals.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO₂ (silicon dioxide) |
| Mineral group | Chalcedony / Jasper |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5 – 7 |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Color | Dark green with red/rust spots |
| Crystal system | Trigonal (cryptocrystalline) |
| Specific gravity | 2.58 – 2.64 |
| Cleavage | None |
| Primary source | India |
| Treatment | Rarely treated |
Bloodstone vs. Heliotrope – Are They the Same Stone?
Yes. Bloodstone and heliotrope are two names for the same gemstone. Additional names in historical use include blood jasper, Christ’s Stone, and the Martyr’s Stone. The name bloodstone is the most widely recognized in modern commercial contexts. Heliotrope is used primarily in mineralogical and historical literature.
Aquamarine vs. Bloodstone – Full Comparison
Aquamarine and bloodstone differ substantially in color, hardness, price, historical origin, and practical use. The choice between the two depends on intended use, budget, aesthetic preference, and zodiac alignment.
| Feature | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Blue to blue-green (transparent) | Dark green with red spots (opaque) |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 – 8 | 6.5 – 7 |
| Toughness | Good (variable with inclusions) | Good to very good |
| Price per carat (commercial) | $20 – $1,000+ (color/clarity dependent) | $5 – $50 (typically) |
| Daily wear suitability | Moderate (protective setting recommended) | Good |
| Historical designation | Modern (1912) | Traditional (antiquity) |
| Primary zodiac alignment | Pisces | Aries |
| Treatment prevalence | 90%+ heat-treated | Rarely treated |
| Transparency | Transparent | Opaque |
| Best jewelry format | Rings, pendants, earrings | Pendants, cufflinks, signet rings |
| Rarity | Widely available commercially | Widely available; fine specimens rarer |
Which March Birthstone Should You Choose?
The choice depends on four factors: budget, aesthetic preference, daily wear requirements, and zodiac sign. Aquamarine is preferred for transparent, fine jewelry with a blue color focus. Bloodstone is preferred for traditional, opaque, or masculine jewelry formats, or by buyers seeking a stone with deep historical roots.
Bloodstone is significantly more affordable than aquamarine of equivalent size, making it a practical choice for large-format pieces such as pendants, signet rings, and cufflinks.
March Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism
Aquamarine symbolizes courage, clarity, and protection. Bloodstone symbolizes vitality, strength, and protection in battle. Both stones carry independent symbolic traditions rooted in ancient and medieval cultures.
Aquamarine Meaning
The name aquamarine derives from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “sea water.” Historical records from ancient Rome and Greece document the stone’s association with the sea and with protection for sailors and maritime travelers. Pliny the Elder (23–79 CE) references aquamarine in Naturalis Historia, describing its connection to the sea and its use in protective amulets.
| Symbolic Meaning | Cultural / Historical Tradition |
|---|---|
| Courage and clarity | Ancient Roman tradition |
| Protection at sea | Mediterranean maritime cultures |
| Calm and serenity | General Western tradition |
| Fidelity and friendship | Traditional European birthstone symbolism |
| Communication | Modern crystal healing tradition |
| Throat Chakra alignment | Hindu and Western metaphysical tradition |
The Throat Chakra (Vishuddha) is associated with aquamarine in both Hindu and Western metaphysical traditions. The stone is placed at the throat in Chakra-based practices to support communication and self-expression.
Aquamarine is the traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary, according to the American Gem Society.
Bloodstone Meaning
Bloodstone has been associated with courage, endurance, and physical strength across multiple ancient cultures. Ancient Babylonian and Egyptian texts describe its use in warrior amulets and healing practices. Medieval European traditions attributed the stone with wound-stopping properties, leading physicians to wear it.
| Symbolic Meaning | Cultural / Historical Tradition |
|---|---|
| Courage in battle | Ancient Babylonian and Roman warrior traditions |
| Protection from enemies | Medieval European amulet tradition |
| Healing of wounds | Medieval physicians’ use |
| Vitality and strength | General Western tradition |
| Sacrifice and devotion | Christian Martyr’s Stone association |
| Root Chakra alignment | Modern metaphysical tradition |
March Birthstone and Zodiac Signs – Pisces and Aries
March covers two zodiac signs: Pisces (February 19 through March 20) and Aries (March 21 through April 19). Each sign has a distinct primary birthstone alignment.
| Water sign, color, and symbolic alignment | March Dates | Primary Birthstone Alignment | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pisces | February 19 – March 20 | Aquamarine | Water sign; color and symbolic alignment |
| Aries | March 21 – April 19 | Bloodstone | Water sign, color, and symbolic alignment |
Pisces and Aquamarine
Aquamarine aligns with Pisces as a water sign whose attributes — depth, intuition, and fluid emotion — correspond to aquamarine’s sea-water color and historical association with calm and communication. Pisces is the 12th sign of the zodiac, ruled by Neptune in modern Western astrology.
Aries and Bloodstone
Bloodstone aligns with Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, ruled by Mars. The warrior associations of bloodstone — courage, endurance, and protection in conflict — correspond directly to Aries’ attributes of energy, assertion, and initiative.
People born in the last 10 days of March (March 21 through March 31) are Aries. For these individuals, bloodstone is the zodiac-aligned stone, while aquamarine remains the calendar-month birthstone under the modern system.
Aquamarine Quality and Grading – The Buyer’s Framework
Aquamarine is evaluated using four criteria: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Unlike diamond grading, color is the dominant value driver, accounting for approximately 60–70% of an aquamarine’s assessed market value.
Color Grading
The most valuable aquamarine color is a medium-toned, saturated blue with no significant green or yellow modifier. GIA uses the same hue-tone-saturation framework applied to all colored gemstones.
| Color Quality | Description | Commercial Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Premium (“Santa Maria”) | Deep, vivid blue; medium-dark tone; high saturation | Investment-grade; significant premium |
| Fine | Pure blue or slightly greenish-blue; medium tone; good saturation | Commercial fine grade |
| Commercial | Light to pale blue; lower saturation | Standard commercial grade |
| Below standard | Strong green or yellow modifier; very pale | Lower commercial; described as “green beryl” if too pale |
Clarity Grading
Aquamarine is a GIA Type I gemstone, meaning it typically occurs with few or no inclusions visible to the naked eye. Unlike emerald (a Type III stone almost always included), aquamarine is expected to be eye-clean. Visible inclusions reduce value significantly.
Common aquamarine inclusions include:
- Hollow tubes or channels running parallel to the crystal’s length
- Snowflake-like liquid inclusions
- Tension fractures
Aquamarines with visible inclusions to the naked eye are graded as “slightly included” or lower and sell at a discount to eye-clean material.
Cut
The most common commercial cut for aquamarine is the emerald cut (rectangular step-cut), which maximizes color display and minimizes waste from the typically elongated aquamarine crystal. Other popular cuts include oval, cushion, pear, and round brilliant.
Custom “fantasy” or designer cuts featuring non-traditional faceting patterns have gained commercial traction, particularly for collector-grade material. The Dom Pedro Aquamarine — a 10,363-carat obelisk now in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — represents the most significant example of large-scale fantasy cutting applied to aquamarine.
Carat Weight and Price
Aquamarine is available in a wide range of carat weights with less dramatic per-carat price jumps at size thresholds compared to diamond, sapphire, or ruby. Larger stones (5 carats and above) with fine color and clarity command the most significant per-carat premiums.
| Stone Quality | Typical Price Range per Carat |
|---|---|
| Commercial pale blue (treated) | $20 – $100 |
| Fine blue (treated, eye-clean) | $100 – $400 |
| Premium “Santa Maria” blue (treated) | $400 – $1,000+ |
| Untreated natural saturated blue | Premium above treated equivalent (certification required) |
Aquamarine Durability – Is It Suitable for Daily Wear?
Aquamarine’s Mohs hardness of 7.5–8 provides good scratch resistance but does not guarantee chip or break resistance. Toughness — the resistance to fracturing — is distinct from hardness. Aquamarine has good hardness but is vulnerable to chipping along its imperfect cleavage plane under sharp mechanical impact.
| Durability Property | Aquamarine | Diamond | Sapphire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 – 8 | 10 | 9 |
| Cleavage | Imperfect (one direction) | Perfect (four directions) | None |
| Toughness | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Daily wear suitability | Moderate (protective setting recommended) | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ultrasonic cleaner safety | Usually safe (avoid if visible fractures) | Safe | Safe |
An aquamarine ring intended for daily wear performs best in a bezel or halo setting that provides mechanical protection around the stone’s edges, which are the most vulnerable points for chipping. Prong settings expose the stone’s perimeter and increase chipping risk.
Best Settings for Aquamarine in Daily Wear Jewelry
| A ring of smaller stones surrounds and partially protects the center stone | Protection Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bezel | Highest | Metal rim encircles perimeter; protects edges |
| Halo | High | Ring of smaller stones surrounds and partially protects center stone |
| Four-prong | Moderate | Standard setting; edges exposed |
| Six-prong | Moderate | A ring of smaller stones surrounds and partially protects the center stone |
| East-West bezel | High | Horizontal orientation with full bezel protection |
| Tension | Low | A ring of smaller stones surrounds and partially protects the center stone |
2026 Aquamarine Jewelry Trends
The 2026 aquamarine jewelry market is shifting toward deeper blue tones, non-traditional cuts, and ethical sourcing transparency. Three distinct trends are shaping commercial demand.
Deep Blue and “Ocean Core” Color Demand
Deep, saturated blue aquamarine is commanding greater market interest in 2026 compared to the pale, icy-blue material that dominated prior years. The broader “ocean core” aesthetic trend — favoring deep sea-blue, teal, and marine-inspired color palettes — has increased demand for Santa Maria and Santa Maria Africana (Mozambique) material.
Descriptive color terms used in 2026 retail contexts include “oceanic blue,” “deep sea teal,” and “ice-to-aqua gradient,” reflecting the range of sought-after tones.
Non-Traditional Cuts
Elongated and fantasy cuts are gaining market share in 2026 over the traditional round brilliant. The practical driver is visual size: elongated cuts (oval, pear, marquise) create a larger visible surface area per carat weight, providing greater perceived stone size at equivalent cost.
| Cut Type | Visual Effect | Primary Appeal in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Elongated oval | Larger apparent size; flattering on hand | Modern engagement rings |
| East-West orientation (emerald or marquise) | Horizontal width; contemporary look | Sleek pendants; modern rings |
| Fantasy / designer cut | Non-traditional faceting; “hall of mirrors” effect | Collectors; artisan jewelry |
| Asscher | Vintage square step-cut; emphasizes clarity | Art Deco revival; quiet luxury aesthetic |
Ethical Sourcing Expectations
Gen Z and Millennial buyers are increasingly requesting mine-of-origin documentation for aquamarine purchases in 2026. The artisanal small-scale mining sector in Brazil (Minas Gerais) operates alongside industrial operations, with varying levels of environmental and labor oversight.
Buyers seeking supply chain transparency should request:
- Country of origin certification from a recognized laboratory (GIA, AGL, or SSEF)
- Confirmation of recycled metal use for settings where available
- Vendor documentation of responsible sourcing practices
March Birthstone Jewelry Guide
March birthstone jewelry is available across all major formats, with aquamarine dominating ring, pendant, and earring categories and bloodstone appearing most frequently in pendants, signet rings, and cufflinks.
March Birthstone Ring
Aquamarine rings are the highest-demand March birthstone jewelry format. The stone’s hardness of 7.5–8 makes it suitable for rings with appropriate protective settings. Bloodstone rings are less common in the commercial market but historically significant — signet rings with carved bloodstone intaglios were used by Roman officials and medieval clergy.
Aquamarine ring pricing:
| Stone Quality | Setting Metal | Approximate Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial pale blue (1–2 carat) | Sterling silver | $50 – $300 |
| Fine blue (1–2 carat) | 14k white or yellow gold | $300 – $1,500 |
| Fine blue (2–5 carat) | 18k gold or platinum | $1,500 – $8,000+ |
| Santa Maria blue (1+ carat) | Platinum | $2,000 – $15,000+ |
March Birthstone Necklace and Pendant
Aquamarine pendants represent the second-highest commercial March birthstone category. Bezel-set solitaires in white or yellow gold are the most consistent sellers. Bloodstone pendants in raw or polished oval cabochon formats are available at significantly lower price points.
March Birthstone Earrings
Aquamarine stud and drop earrings are a lower-risk daily wear format compared to rings, as earrings experience minimal mechanical impact. Small aquamarines (0.25–0.75 carat per stone) in four-prong or bezel settings are the most common commercial format.
March Birthstone for Gifts
Aquamarine jewelry is recognized as the traditional gift for the 19th wedding anniversary, according to the American Gem Society. For birthday gifts, both aquamarine and bloodstone are appropriate for any person born in March, regardless of gender, though bloodstone in signet or cufflink formats is more commonly purchased for male recipients.
Alternative Birthstones for March
Three stones are commonly used as alternatives to aquamarine and bloodstone for March birthdays: blue topaz, morganite, and labradorite.
| Alternative Stone | Color | Mohs Hardness | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue topaz | Sky blue to Swiss blue | 8 | $5 – $50/carat | Budget buyers seeking vivid blue |
| Morganite | Pink to peach | 7.5 – 8 | $50 – $300/carat | Pink tone preference; same beryl family as aquamarine |
| Labradorite | Gray-green with iridescent flash | 6 – 6.5 | $5 – $40/carat | Iridescent aesthetic; budget-accessible |
| Larimar | Sky blue (Caribbean) | 4.5 – 5 | $20 – $100/carat | Unique ocean-blue; softer stone |
Blue topaz is the most commercially popular aquamarine alternative due to its vivid, accessible blue and lower price point. It is the birthstone for November and is not an official March birthstone, but it is widely marketed alongside aquamarine in the March category. Blue topaz is almost universally irradiated to produce its blue color, a treatment that is permanent and industry-standard.
How to Care for March Birthstone Jewelry
Aquamarine and bloodstone require separate care protocols due to their different mineral compositions and hardness levels.
Caring for Aquamarine Jewelry
The standard safe cleaning method for aquamarine is warm water with mild dish soap and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for aquamarine that is inclusion-free and has no surface-reaching fractures. Avoid steam cleaners, which can cause thermal stress in stones with liquid-filled inclusions.
Step-by-step safe cleaning for aquamarine:
- Fill a bowl with lukewarm water (not hot)
- Add 2–3 drops of pH-neutral dish soap
- Submerge the jewelry for 60–90 seconds
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around prongs and the underside of the stone
- Rinse under clean lukewarm water
- Pat dry with a microfiber cloth; allow to air-dry before storage
Chemicals and activities to avoid with aquamarine:
- Chlorine (swimming pools, bleach-based cleaners) — can affect treated stones and metals
- Ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has visible fractures or liquid inclusions
- Sudden temperature changes (placing a cold stone under hot water)
- Contact with harder stones (diamond, sapphire) during storage
Caring for Bloodstone Jewelry
Bloodstone requires the same basic cleaning method as aquamarine — lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft brush — but with two additional precautions:
- Avoid prolonged water immersion, as porous chalcedony can absorb liquids over time
- Do not use chemical cleaners or harsh detergents, which can affect the surface polish
- Ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended for bloodstone due to its cryptocrystalline structure
Storage Guidelines for March Birthstones
Store aquamarine and bloodstone jewelry separately from harder gemstones. Aquamarine at Mohs 7.5–8 can be scratched by diamond (10), sapphire (9), and topaz (8). Bloodstone at Mohs 6.5–7 can be scratched by aquamarine, topaz, sapphire, and diamond.
Use individual soft velvet pouches or separate compartments in a fabric-lined jewelry box for all pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions About the March Birthstone
What is the birthstone for March?
March has two birthstones: aquamarine (modern) and bloodstone (traditional). Aquamarine is the primary stone listed in the 1912 modern birthstone standard. Bloodstone is the original historical March birthstone, recognized since antiquity.
What color is the March birthstone?
The March birthstone, aquamarine, is blue to blue-green. Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is dark green with red and rust-brown spots.
Why does March have two birthstones?
March has two birthstones because bloodstone was the traditional historical stone, and aquamarine was added to the modern birthstone list by the American National Retail Jewelers Association in 1912. Both stones remain officially recognized by the American Gem Society.
Is aquamarine heat-treated?
Yes. Approximately 90% or more of commercially available aquamarine is heat-treated at temperatures of 400–450°C to remove greenish or yellowish tones and produce a purer blue color. The treatment is permanent, stable, and widely accepted. Verification of treatment status requires a laboratory report from GIA, AGL, or SSEF.
How much does aquamarine cost?
Aquamarine ranges from approximately $20 per carat for commercial pale blue material to over $1,000 per carat for premium Santa Maria blue. Price depends on color saturation, clarity, carat weight, and treatment disclosure. Bloodstone is significantly more affordable, typically $5–$50 per carat.
Is aquamarine durable enough for an engagement ring?
Aquamarine can be used in engagement rings but requires a protective setting, such as a bezel or halo, due to its imperfect cleavage and moderate toughness. Its Mohs hardness of 7.5–8 provides adequate scratch resistance. Prong settings that expose the stone’s edges increase the risk of chipping under impact.
What does bloodstone symbolize?
Bloodstone symbolizes courage, vitality, and physical strength. Ancient warrior traditions from Babylon, Greece, and Rome used bloodstone in protective amulets. Medieval European traditions associated it with wound-healing and devotion.
Is the March birthstone for Pisces or Aries?
Aquamarine is the primary stone aligned with Pisces (February 19 through March 20), and bloodstone is the primary stone aligned with Aries (March 21 through April 19). Under the modern calendar-month birthstone system, aquamarine applies to both Pisces and Aries born in March.
What is the difference between aquamarine and blue topaz?
Aquamarine and blue topaz differ primarily in rarity, color saturation, and price: aquamarine is a rarer, more valuable, and softer (Mohs 7.5–8) gemstone with muted sea-blue/green tones. Blue topaz is more affordable, often treated to achieve vibrant, bright blue, and is harder (Mohs 8).
Can aquamarine go in water?
Aquamarine is generally safe to contact water briefly, but prolonged immersion in chlorinated water (swimming pools) or chemical solutions is not recommended. Removing aquamarine jewelry before swimming, showering with chemical products, or using cleaning agents is the safest practice.
March Birthstone – Quick Reference Summary
| Category | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
|---|---|---|
| Designation | Modern (1912) | Traditional (antiquity) |
| Mineral family | Beryl | Chalcedony / Jasper |
| Color | Blue to blue-green | Dark green with red spots |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5 – 8 | 6.5 – 7 |
| Transparency | Transparent | Opaque |
| Treatment prevalence | 90%+ heat-treated | Rarely treated |
| Price range | $20 – $1,000+/carat | $5 – $50/carat |
| Zodiac alignment | Pisces (primary) | Aries (primary) |
| Anniversary use | 19th wedding anniversary | Not standardized |
| Primary source country | Brazil | India |
| Safe cleaning method | Warm water, mild soap, soft brush | Warm water, mild soap, soft brush |
| Unsafe cleaning | Steam cleaner; chlorine | Ultrasonic; chemical cleaners |
| Daily wear suitability | Moderate (protective setting required) | Good |
| Symbolism | Courage, clarity, protection | Vitality, strength, courage |
Gemological data in this article is sourced from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA). Historical data references Pliny the Elder’s Naturalis Historia (77 CE) and medieval European gemstone literature. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is cited for the Dom Pedro Aquamarine reference. Price data reflects general commercial market ranges and is subject to variation by vendor and stone characteristics.
