March's Birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aquamarine

Characterised by its clear, light blue-green colour, Aquamarine, like Emerald, is a member of the beryl family. Long considered a lucky stone for sailors, and still associated with water and safe travel, Aquamarine is the modern birthstone for March.

Associated with fidelity, truth and happiness, Aquamarine is said to promote feelings of peace and tranquillity, and is considered a powerful meditation stone. Greek soldiers believed this stone would grant them courage. Ancient folklore also claimed that this stone would protect its wearer against malicious gossip.

Bloodstone

Bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope, is a form of dark green chalcedony flecked with blood-red, which gives the stone its name. Legend has it that the stone was marked with the blood of Christ at the crucifixion and has remained so ever since.

An electromagnetic stone due to its high iron content, Bloodstone is said to instil great courage in its wearer and helps to soothe the mind. Some sources also claim that it encourages greater charity of spirit, and can help its wearer to open themselves to new patterns of behaviour. Powdered Bloodstone is still used as an aphrodisiac in modern-day India.

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