March’s Birthstone – Aquamarine and Bloodstone (Heliotrope)

March’s Birthstone – Aquamarine and Bloodstone (Heliotrope)

 

There are  two gemstones associated with March’s birthstone, the aquamarine and bloodstone which is otherwise known as Heliotrope.

 Aquamarine

 

 

March’s birthstone, the aquamarine, brings peace, tranquillity, youth, hope and health. It is whispered by romantics to bring pure love and promote faithfulness, courage and friendship. The magic of the aquamarine is that it warns against phoney friends. The stone changes from light to dark indicating who is true or false -  when the Aquamarine becomes almost white beware of the person you are with.

Aquamarine encourages a gentle nature and personality in the wearer. The serene color of aquamarine cools the temper, encouraging the wearer to remain calm and level headed. It also protects against anxiety and relieves fear thus helping you to carry on with a normal life if you are under stress.

From the Latin word aqua marina “water of the sea”, the aquamarine has particular relevance to sailors, providing them with protection, as well as to guaranteeing them a safe voyage.  Early sailors used aquamarine good luck charms etched with the likeness of the sea god Neptune to protect them against ocean dangers. Aquamarines are often associated with mermaids who legend says also protect sailors.

 

  

 The aquamarine’s metaphysical properties include awareness, quick response and the resolve of communication problems. Its healing properties help to prevent stress-related illness, release fear, calm nerves, and bring mental clarity. It is also protects against diseases of the liver, throat, stomach, jaw, teeth, eyes, and ears. Just soak the aquamarine in water and then drink it to benefit from all of its healing powers

Aquamarines have been a favourite with royalty and  are often found in tiaras and other crown jewels.

 

 

Princess Diana and the Queen wearing a magnificent aquamarine tiara

Aquamarine is usually light blue in color but can range from a greenish blue to blue-green. As a rule, the in larger stone the more intense the blue color.  March’s birthstone, the aquamarine is a perfect gift and makes a really impressive engagement ring.

 

 



 A March born shall always be
Soothed by Aqua, gem of sea
This mermaid's treasured stone you wear
Will bring happiness, love, affection and care.

 

March’s Birthstone, the Bloodstone

 

 

The other of March’s birthstone, the bloodstone made from the mineral heliotrope. Bloodstone is a dark-green chalcedony jasper gemstone with flecks of dramatic red spots of iron oxide which look like specks of blood. Obviously this is why it is called bloodstone. It is called the martyr's stone as legend says that it was formed when drops of Jesus Christ's blood stained some jasper at the foot of the cross. 

Bloodstone is a very ancient stone used by the Babylonians to make seals and amulets. It was worn by Babylonian soldiers into battle because its energy was supposed to open doors, win the advantage and boost courage in the midst of battle. It gave physical strength to the wearer and if injured it helped to stop bleeding.



 

Bloodstone has many healing powers and is especially helpful for blood disorders and blood circulation. It is an all purpose healer and cleanser, purifying the bloodstream and bladder as well as strengthening all the blood purifying organs. They are also used to help with stomach and bowel pain.

March's birthstone the bloodstone is considered to be a good luck stone for businessmen and women. Its green color represents the green of money and the abundance of new growth in the spring. The red flecks sparkle like currency and symbolises the flow of money similar to the flow of blood as it circulates through your body. A perfect gift.

 Who in this world of ours their eyes   
In March first open shall be wise,
In days of peril firm and brave,
And wear a bloodstone  to their grave.