March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Because of its deep associations with the ocean, the aquamarine birthstone is known as the sailors’ gem, promising ancient mariners safe and fruitful journeys at sea. During World War II, the U.S. navy commissioned a coastal patrol yacht, naming it the USS Aquamarine as tribute to the beloved gemstone and its ties to the ocean. A favorite among royals and nobility as well, aquamarine was particularly treasured by Queen Elizabeth II who chose to wear a pair of stunning aquamarine earrings at her coronation in 1953. 

 Holding sacred meaning to Neptune, the god of the sea, Romans believed aquamarines were born from the bejeweled caskets of his sea sirens as they emerged upon the shore. Ancient Greeks associated the March gemstone with Poseidon. 

 More recently, large aquamarine birthstones have been holding their own in museums and honored collections. In 1936, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was gifted a 1,298 carat aquamarine. This was the largest cut stone of this kind at the time. Then, in the 1980s, an even larger nearly 100 pound aquamarine was found in Brazil. It was eventually cut into smaller pieces with the largest receiving a fantasy cut from world famous Bernd Munsteiner. The massive, fantasy cut March birthstone is now in display at The Smithsonian National Museum and is known as the Dom Pedro Aquamarine.

 

March Birthstone Color

 

Blue is the leading hue for March’s birthstone, aquamarine. These modern March stones are identified by their blue-based coloration, with gems displaying variations of this calming color. Most birthstones for March show the lighter shade of this gem, but its color can vary from soft blue to tones with green-blue as well. The darker the shade of blue, the rarer the aquamarine March birthstone. 

Bloodstone has also been associated with the month of March, once serving as the month’s less-common birthstone. The bloodstone March birthstone features at least two colors: a dark green main stone color with splatters of red or brown.  

The Spirit of Tranquility and Vitality

 

Birthstone meanings are often a little more modern than the gemstone’s historical meaning. March’s birthstone encompasses the spirit of the ocean in its current context, representing both the exhilaration of crashing waves and the serenity of calmer tides. Many believe that it inspires understanding and deep communication between people, also bestowing courage and bravery upon its wearer. A stone of truth and protection, aquamarine guards against evil thoughts and invokes creativity while heightening wisdom and intellect. Aquamarine inspires its wearer to feel as relaxed as the lolling of gentle sea waters, encouraging a spirit of compassion and kindness. 

March Gemstone Symbolism

 

The aquamarine birthstone for March symbolizes the ocean due to its iconic color. Many people believe that this stone offers calming energy, increased clarity and victory in legal situations or battles. Historically, March’s stone has been believed to quicken intellect and bring enhanced protection to its wearers. 

The less-common bloodstone birthstone also has unique symbolism. It is associated with strength, health and luck.  

Aquamarine’s Connections to March

 

March babies born through the 20th get the astrological sign Pisces. The fish symbol for this sign is perfectly fitting for the symbolism of March’s gemstone. Pisces are known for many positive qualities including their clear emotional awareness. The optimistic Aries also has ties to the gemstone’s symbolism, honing creativity and bravery that are often interlinked with the aquamarine's symbolism.

March’s birthstone is commonly found in Brazil, though it can be found in other parts of the world as well. When buying jewelry with March’s birthstone, follow these tips to find the perfect fit: