March Birthstone

by coach864 on 2010-04-20 09:47:10

The mineral, commonly known as bloodstone, is the traditional birthstone for March. It is a form of chalcedony and a hidden variety of quartz. The common green jasper with red iron oxide inclusions is known as the classic bloodstone. Sometimes, yellow or other colored jaspers can be found, though most of these are referred to as fancy jaspers rather than bloodstones. The presence of red spots resembling blood, which led it to be called "Bloodstone," was historically significant. Soapstone reflects light in some ways similar to minerals.

Originally, Bloodstone was the sole birthstone for the month; however, today jasper, bloodstone, and aquamarine are all recognized as gemstones for those born in March. Bloodstone is used to create harmony, balance, and to promote self-esteem. In medieval times, it was associated with the red blood of Jesus Christ, and the stone was known for its remarkable mental strength. People in ancient times dressed in bloodstone to make themselves invisible. Christians in the Middle Ages carved scenes of suffering and martyrdom into soapstone, giving rise to the term "martyr's stone." Today, fine powder from bloodstone is used as medicine in some countries and is considered an aphrodisiac. In modern times, it is regarded as a gemstone for March and is the birthstone for the Scorpio zodiac sign.

Aquamarine, a member of the beryl family, comes in a variety of colors ranging from pale blue to bluish-green or greenish-blue. The most valuable color is the deep blue aqua hue. Aquamarine ranks 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Its name beautifully translates to water and seawater. The rarest and most valuable aquamarines are found primarily in Brazil, though they are also mined in Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Russia, and Afghanistan. In today’s Shanghai market, sapphires are used as collectible gemstones and jewelry that can exhibit a cat’s eye effect.

Some gems, when heated to high temperatures, can enhance the stone's color and clarity. On the other hand, heating aquamarine changes its teal green or blue color into a pure blue stone, resulting in permanent coloration. In earlier times, aquamarine was believed to bestow powers of vision, courage, and happiness. Early civilizations thought it enhanced youthful intelligence. It was used to treat anxiety and was considered effective against strong constructive criticism. It was also believed to possess the ability to prevent the most powerful medium.

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