March – Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Gemstone that is usually associated with March is Aquamarine. It is most often light in tone and ranges from greenish blue to blue-green. Like emeralds, this gemstone is actually a variety of a mineral called beryl. It is mined mainly in Brazil, but is also found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan and Mozambique.
Aquamarine is not only one of the March birthstones, but it is also used to celebrate 19th wedding anniversaries. It is a beautiful stone with little or no yellow in it, so it looks great in many settings with different coloured metals and gemstones. The darker the hue, the more expensive the gem. It is also a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Aquamarine is associated with tranquillity. The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin word aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning the sea. This gemstone was believed to protect sailors as well as to guarantee a safe voyage. Blue colour is thought to cool the temper, allowing the wearer to remain calm and level-headed. Some believe that aquamarine is a great present for the bride at a wedding that symbolizes long unity and love. It is thought to bring both physical and mental health.
March is one of the months that has more than one birthstone, the second being bloodstone. It is a dark-green stone with red spots of iron oxide. It is generally found in India, Brazil and Australia. Historically, bloodstone was believed to have healing powers. Today, some people cherish it as a lucky charm or amulet and it is prized by athletes or those who wish to increase their personal strength. It is believed it can help increase one’s mental and physical energy.
