Gemstones of March - Aquamarine and Bloodstone

AQUAMARINE STONE, STONE OF COURAGE

One of March's birthstones is aquamarine, a beautiful light bluish shade with a hint of green, renowned for its calming and soothing properties. In ancient times, this blue-aquatic stone was believed to protect sailors on their ocean voyages.

The colors of the sea captured in a single jewel

Aquamarine is a semi-precious gemstone characterized by the colors of the sea (from the Latin "aqua" for water and "marina" for sea) and is usually found in shades of light blue to deep saturated blue. The soothing blue-green hues of the watery depths are forever captured in these jewels.

Aquamarine is a beryl mineral that forms from magma inside the Earth. Beryl has many varieties of beautiful gems: intense green emerald, aquamarine, golden yellow heliodor, red beryl - a rare mineral and pink morganite. 

Where is the aquamarine stone found?

The Brazilian state of Minas Gerais has been an important source of aquamarine for the past two centuries. If you ever think of traveling there, you will find a panorama of ever-changing landscapes: rocky hills, rivers and bushland dominate the central and eastern regions; savannas, forests and springs clothe the western side; and the lush green hills roll to the south. Aquamarine stones are found in hard rock and pegmatite deposits in the eastern portion of the state near the Teófilo Otoni jewelry center.

Aquamarine birthstones are also mined in Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Zambia and Mozambique, as well as other parts of Africa. American sources include Colorado's Mount Antero area (it's the state jewel) and California's Riverside and San Diego counties. In addition, aquamarine has also been found in China, Myanmar, Russia and Ukraine.

The history and meanings of aquamarine, the gemstone of March

Ancient sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, engraved with the likeness of the sea god Neptune, protected them against the dangers of the ocean and drowning. According to legends, mermaids' tails were made of aquamarine, hence the jewel was then called the "mermaid's treasure", a jewel of the seas that calms the waves and keeps sailors safe at sea.

Aquamarine is not only the birthstone for March, but the gem also makes a great 19th wedding anniversary gift. In more recent history, in 1936 the government of Brazil presented First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt with a rectangular dark blue aquamarine stone weighing 1,298 carats (ct). It was the larger of two faceted stones from a piece of aquamarine, which, impressively, weighed 1.3 kilograms. It is now housed at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York. 

Perhaps due to its association with water, the aquamarine stone exudes a calming and soothing influence and helps the wearer remain more balanced and clear-headed in stressful situations.

Many cultures said that aquamarine had a relaxing influence on land as well, especially on married couples, where it could rekindle love. It is also a symbol of eternal youth. 

The healing energy of aquamarine is linked to the throat chakra and helps to develop verbal communication and self-expression. Place the aquamarine stone under the full moon to restore its appearance and renew its energy.

Aquamarine gemstone jewelry is a wonderful gift to remind someone dear to be confident and brave in all situations.

What is this traditional March birthstone?

Bloodstone crystal, also known as heliotrope, is a variety of chalcedony (quartz used as a semi-precious stone in art) that is traditionally semi-translucent to a dark green like jasper with red inclusions of iron oxide, of hematite. 

These inclusions resemble bloodstains, hence the name of this crystal. The inclusions can also be of other colors, such as yellow or white, but red is the most well-known and popular color. 

The mythical properties of the bloodstone

Bloodstone is an ancient material that was used by the Babylonians (before 539 BC) to produce amulets and talismans with healing properties. The ancient Egyptians believed that the bloodstone could make an individual stronger and more cunning in battle, perhaps even invisible to his enemies.

Throughout history, bloodstone has been linked to the ability to control the weather, predict the future, win courtroom battles, and enhance creativity. In fact, it was so loved for its properties that many used the stone in jewelry, signet rings, and even goblets or small statues.

History and Meanings of Bloodstone: Magical Stone or Lucky Talisman?

Bloodstone crystal's alternate name heliotrope comes from the ancient Greek word meaning "to transform the sun." In ancient times, these crystals were said to turn the sun red if placed in water, and in the Middle Ages, they were associated with the crucifixion of Christ. According to legend, when Christ was crucified, blood dripped onto the green earth and this red-green stone was formed.

Several metaphysical properties have been attributed to this March birthstone. These include increasing stamina, granting invisibility, and preserving health and youth. In modern times, many consider the semi-precious bloodstone to be a lucky talisman, as it is used by athletes and others who wish to excel in strength and power. On the other hand, in modern-day India, fine bloodstones can be crushed into a powder and used as an aphrodisiac.

The bloodstone crystal is linked to the root chakra or the focal point of dynamic activity, which is associated with a sense of security and grounding.

Where does he find the bloodstone crystal?

Most bloodstones used today are mined and cut in India. Other sources of bloodstone embedded in rocks or in riverbeds include countries such as Brazil, Australia, Germany, the United States, Italy, China, and Madagascar and South Africa.

In the United States, small deposits of this crystal have been found in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Bloodstones form at dark depths and low temperatures in fractures and cavities due to precipitation from silica-rich groundwater.

Although bloodstone crystal does not have the same beauty as aquamarine, many admire and seek it for its special properties. Bloodstones used in jewelry are usually cut cabochon style for spectacular visual effect, although some striking specimens are faceted.

The bloodstone crystal is an ideal birthday gift for a loved one who would appreciate a reminder of their power.