March birthday individuals enjoy the distinction of two birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Noticeably different in appearance, both stones share a similar symbolism of preserving the health of the wearer. The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin word aqua (water) and marina (sea). Its colour ranges from greenish blue to blue-green and is more intense in larger stones, while darker blue stones are very valuable.
Like emeralds, this gemstone is actually a variety of a mineral called beryl and mined mainly in Brazil, but also is found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and Mozambique.
Like diamonds, look for the 4Cs — cut, colour, clarity and carat weight — in aquamarine, when gifting it for birthdays or a 19th wedding anniversary.
www.americangemsociety.org
Gemstones by Cally Hall
The second birthstone for March is Bloodstone, a dark-green stone with red spots of iron oxide. It is also called Heliotrope, derived from the ancient Greek word meaning “to turn the sun”, from the ancient belief of how minerals reflect light. It is also sometimes known as Blood Jasper.
Bloodstone, found in India, Brazil and Australia, is both transparent (heliotrope) with red spots and more opaque (plasma) with little or no red spots. It comes in various shapes and cuts including traditional cuts like emerald, oval and cushion.
Prized for its symbolism and positive properties, Bloodstone makes a beautiful gift that can be worn everyday.
Gemstones by Cally Hall
