“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”

March has two birthstones – Aquamarine and Bloodstone.

The name aquamarine was derived by the Romans, “aqua”, meaning water, and “mare”, meaning sea, and it is indeed the colour of the sea. This gemstone is associated with beauty, honesty, loyalty, and happiness.

Its colour varies from blue-green to a sky blue. Most of the pale aquamarines are heat treated to produce blue-green colours as the deep blue gemstones are rare and are, therefore, the most valuable ones.  In the past, aquamarines – a form of the mineral beryl – were used in optical-ware in Germany to correct shortsightedness.

Bloodstone is a dark green quartz with red spots.  According to legend, Bloodstone’s red colouration is the result of the blood of Christ.  Bloodstone can be found in India, Brazil, Uruguay, Australia, and the United States. This stone symbolizes courage and so makes an excellent choice for friendship jewellery and and piece designed to empower and give strength to the wearer.