March Birthstone: Meaning, Symbolism, and Jewelry Guide
The March Birthstone at a Glance
March marks a turning point in the year. It is the month where winter begins to loosen its grip and early signs of spring emerge — longer days, shifting weather, and a renewed sense of movement and possibility. Reflecting this transition, March is represented by two distinct birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone.
As the primary modern birthstone for March, aquamarine is best known for its soft blue to blue-green hues, evoking calm seas and clear skies. It symbolizes tranquility, clarity, and renewal — qualities closely associated with the arrival of spring. Alongside it, bloodstone holds its place as a traditional alternative birthstone, valued for its deep green color and grounding, protective symbolism.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the March birthstone. We’ll explore why March has two stones, what each one symbolizes, how they connect to the season and zodiac signs, and how to choose March birthstone jewelry for birthdays, gifts, or personal wear. We’ll also cover care tips, historical context, and fun facts to help you fully understand these gemstones and their role in the birthstone calendar.
Whether you’re a March baby, shopping for a meaningful gift, or exploring birthstones by month, this page serves as your complete resource for understanding the March birthstone and its deeper meaning.
What Is the March Birthstone?
March is one of the months associated with more than one birthstone, a tradition that reflects historical shifts in gemstone availability, symbolism, and cultural preferences.
Primary March Birthstone: Aquamarine
The modern and most widely recognized birthstone for March is aquamarine. A member of the beryl family, aquamarine is prized for its light blue to blue-green color, which resembles clear ocean water. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “water of the sea,” a direct reference to its appearance and long-standing maritime symbolism.
Aquamarine is strongly associated with:
- Calmness and emotional clarity
- Renewal and fresh beginnings
- Courage and clear communication
Traditional March Birthstone: Bloodstone
Bloodstone serves as the traditional alternative birthstone for March. Also known as heliotrope, bloodstone is a dark green stone with distinctive red speckles. Historically, it was associated with strength, protection, and vitality, making it a meaningful stone during seasonal transitions.
Today, aquamarine is far more common in March birthstone jewelry, while bloodstone is often chosen for its symbolic depth, spiritual meaning, or unique aesthetic.
For in-depth gemstone details, see:
Why Aquamarine and Bloodstone Represent March
March occupies a unique place in the calendar — it bridges winter and spring. The birthstones associated with this month reflect both renewal and resilience, which is why two very different stones share this role.
Seasonal Symbolism: Transition and Renewal
Aquamarine’s cool blue tones mirror melting ice, flowing water, and clearer skies — natural symbols of seasonal change. As rivers thaw and life begins to stir, aquamarine represents movement, clarity, and emotional balance, making it a natural fit for March.
Bloodstone, by contrast, reflects the strength needed to endure winter’s final challenges. Its deep green color symbolizes grounding and stability, while the red inclusions have historically been linked to vitality and life force.
Historical and Cultural Roots
Aquamarine was favored by ancient sailors, who believed it protected them at sea and ensured safe passage. As trade expanded and gemstones became more accessible, aquamarine gradually became the preferred March birthstone in modern lists.
Bloodstone’s use dates back thousands of years and was especially prominent in ancient and medieval traditions, where it was worn for protection, courage, and physical strength.
Balance Between Calm and Strength
Together, aquamarine and bloodstone represent two sides of March:
- Aquamarine: calm, clarity, emotional renewal
- Bloodstone: grounding, resilience, inner strength
This dual symbolism reflects the complexity of the month itself.
Meaning and Symbolism of the March Birthstone
The meaning of the March birthstone depends on which stone is considered, but both share themes of renewal, protection, and balance.
Aquamarine Meaning and Symbolism
As March’s primary birthstone, aquamarine symbolizes:
- Peace and emotional clarity
- Honest communication
- Letting go of stress and emotional weight
- Courage during change
Aquamarine is often associated with calm decision-making and inner harmony, making it especially meaningful for those born during this transitional month.
Bloodstone Meaning and Symbolism
Bloodstone carries more grounded symbolism, traditionally linked to:
- Strength and endurance
- Protection from negativity
- Vitality and courage
- Staying grounded during change
It has long been viewed as a stone of resilience, helping its wearer remain steady and focused.
Zodiac Connections
March spans two zodiac signs:
- Pisces (February 19 – March 20): intuitive, empathetic, emotional
- Aries (March 21 – April 19): bold, energetic, action-oriented
Aquamarine complements Pisces’ emotional depth, while bloodstone aligns well with Aries’ strength and determination.
To explore symbolic meanings across the year, visit our Birthstone Meanings & Symbolism Hub.
March Birthstone Jewelry Ideas
March birthstone jewelry offers a wide range of styles thanks to the contrast between aquamarine and bloodstone. While aquamarine dominates modern jewelry, bloodstone remains a meaningful alternative.
Aquamarine Jewelry
Aquamarine is especially popular in:
- Rings and engagement rings
- Elegant necklaces and pendants
- Stud and drop earrings
- Delicate bracelets
Its light color pairs beautifully with white gold, platinum, and silver, making it a favorite for spring-inspired designs.
Bloodstone Jewelry
Bloodstone is more commonly used in:
- Beaded bracelets
- Cabochon rings
- Statement pendants
- Men’s jewelry
Its earthy appearance appeals to those who prefer bold, grounded designs.
For curated options, explore:
How to Care for March Birthstone Jewelry
Aquamarine Care
Aquamarine ranks 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear with proper care.
- Clean with warm water and mild soap
- Avoid harsh chemicals
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Bloodstone Care
Bloodstone is slightly softer and benefits from gentler handling.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap
- Store in a padded jewelry box
For broader guidance, see our Gemstone Care & Buying Guides.
Fun Facts About the March Birthstone
- Aquamarine belongs to the same family as emerald
- Large aquamarine crystals have been found weighing over 100 pounds
- Bloodstone was historically believed to stop bleeding and heal wounds
- Aquamarine was once thought to calm stormy seas
- Both stones have been used in jewelry for thousands of years
Learn more at our Gemstone Science & Education Hub.
Related Articles and Resources
Continue exploring March’s birthstones with these guides:
- Aquamarine Gemstone Guide
- Bloodstone Gemstone Guide
- March Birthstone Jewelry
- Crystal Healing & Spiritual Stones
Explore More Birthstones
March is one chapter in a much larger tradition, where each month is associated with gemstones chosen for their symbolism and historical meaning. While aquamarine and bloodstone represent March with themes of renewal and resilience, every month has stones that reflect its own unique character. To explore the complete calendar, visit our full guide to birthstones by month.
Final Thoughts
The March birthstone reflects a month defined by transition, balance, and forward momentum. Whether you’re drawn to the calming clarity of aquamarine or the grounding strength of bloodstone, both stones offer meaningful symbolism for March birthdays.
To continue exploring, you may want to discover the April Birthstone or return to the birthstones by month hub to explore the rest of the year.