March Birthstone Jewellery: Aquamarine & Bloodstone Guide
March Birthstone Jewellery: Aquamarine & Bloodstone Guide
March brings two very different moods in gemstone form. Aquamarine offers cool, watery blues with a fresh, bright feel. Bloodstone is deep green with distinct red specks, quietly powerful and historic.
This guide explores colour, symbolism and history for both stones, with clear era notes and a simple care summary so you can choose pieces you will enjoy wearing. For an overview of every month, visit the Birthstones by Month guide.
Table of Contents
- History of March’s Birthstones
- Symbolism and Colour
- At a Glance
- Aquamarine in Focus
- Bloodstone in Focus
- Design Through the Eras
- Notable Lore
- Care in Brief
- FAQs
- You Might Also Like
- Final Thoughts
- About Ps Its Vintage
- References
History of March’s Birthstones
Aquamarine takes its name from sea water and has been prized since Roman times for its clear, refreshing colour. It flourished again in the early twentieth century when clean lines and pale blues felt modern and uplifting.
Bloodstone (also called heliotrope) has a much older devotional history. Its dark green base with red flecks made it a favourite for seals, fobs and signet styles across the Renaissance and Victorian periods.
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Symbolism and Colour
Aquamarine. Calm, clarity and open communication. Colour runs from icy light blue to soft sea-foam. Step cuts and white metals emphasise freshness. Old-cut diamond accents add gentle sparkle.
Bloodstone. Courage, protection and steady focus. Dark green with scattered red specks pairs well with yellow gold and signet profiles. The look is quietly bold and very wearable.
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At a Glance
Aquamarine: a beryl; typically 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale; often heat treated to improve blue; loved for bright, open settings and Art Deco lines.
Bloodstone: a dark green chalcedony with red spots from iron oxides; about 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale; often seen in antique seals, fobs and signet rings.
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Aquamarine in Focus
Colour. From very pale to more saturated blue. Deeper tones feel luxurious. Paler stones look clean and modern. Even colour with good clarity is appealing in both antique and newer cuts.
Cuts and styles. Emerald and step cuts underline the cool, glassy mood. You will also see ovals and cushions in Edwardian and Art Deco pieces with old-cut diamond accents.
Notes. Heat treatment to refine colour is routine and accepted in the trade. Disclosure helps with care decisions and price comparison.
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Bloodstone in Focus
Colour. Deep, mossy green with red specks. The distribution of red varies and gives each stone a unique pattern.
Typical jewellery. Intaglios, seals and signet rings in warm gold are classics. You will also find pendants and watch fobs that convert nicely.
Notes. As a variety of chalcedony, bloodstone is sturdy in everyday wear. The polished surface gives a subtle glow that suits low-profile designs.
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Design Through the Eras
Victorian. Bloodstone seals, watch fobs and signets in warm gold. Aquamarine in cluster and drop pendant styles.
Edwardian. Airy platinum filigree. Aquamarine ovals in refined mounts with old-cut diamond accents.
Art Deco. Clean geometry and step cuts. Aquamarine loves crisp bezels and baguette shoulders.
Mid century. Fresh, open settings with generous stones. Aquamarine cocktail rings feel bright and uplifting.
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Notable Lore
- Aquamarine. Once a sailor’s talisman for safe passage and clear skies.
- Bloodstone. Associated with bravery and devotion in medieval and Renaissance Europe. Popular for signets and seals.
Care in Brief
Use lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush. Pat dry with a lint free cloth. Ultrasonic cleaning is often fine for aquamarine unless included or set with delicate companions. Avoid ultrasonics for assembled or uncertain stones. Store pieces separately. For ring sizing help, try the Ring Size Calculator.
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FAQs
Which is better for daily rings?
Aquamarine usually suits daily wear with sensible care. Bloodstone is also sturdy in protective signet styles.
Why does aquamarine look pale?
Many stones are cut for brightness rather than strong saturation. Choose deeper-toned stones if you prefer stronger blue.
Is aquamarine usually treated?
Heat treatment to refine colour is routine and accepted. Disclosure helps with price comparison and care.
Is bloodstone the same as jasper?
Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony with red spots from iron oxides. It has a smoother, more uniform look than many jaspers.
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You Might Also Like
- Birthstones by Month: Complete Guide
- January Birthstone Jewellery: Garnet Guide
- February Birthstone Jewellery: Amethyst Guide
- December Birthstone Jewellery: Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon
- Jewellery Symbolism Guide
Final Thoughts
From sea-breeze aquamarine to quietly bold bloodstone, March offers two distinct palettes with real character. Explore different cuts and eras, then choose the colour and setting that feel most like you. When you’re ready to browse, start with Rings.
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About Ps Its Vintage
Ps Its Vintage is independently run and specialises in preloved, vintage and antique jewellery. Every piece is chosen for its character, quality and symbolism, with a focus on hallmarks, makers and meaningful design. Whether you are discovering a birthstone or marking a milestone, this guide is here to help you choose with confidence.
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References
- GIA — Aquamarine overview and quality factors
- GIA — Beryl family
- IGS — Bloodstone (heliotrope) properties and history
- GIA — Chalcedony basics
