March Symbols Guide ~ Birthstones, Colors, Flowers & Zodiac Signs
The March symbols and zodiac signs are:
- Birthstone: Aquamarine
- Alternative birthstone: Bloodstone (Heliotrope)
- Birthstone colors: Sea blue and blue-green; deep green with red flecks
- Birth flowers: Daffodil and Jonquil (both Narcissus varieties)
- Birth trees (Celtic): Ash (Feb 18–Mar 17), Elder (Mar 18–Apr 14)
- Zodiac star sign 1: Pisces (Feb 20 - Mar 20)
- Zodiac star sign 2: Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19)
Additional symbols of March include:
- Birds: Robin and Bluebird
- Animals: Lamb and Hare
- Insects: Honeybee and Butterfly
Here is a full guide into March’s official and unofficial symbols, their histories, their cultural significance, and their modern interpretations.
March is a month of contrasts. In many parts of the world, it begins with frost on the ground and ends with blossom on the trees. It carries the last breath of winter and the first real promise of spring. Fittingly, the traditional symbols associated with March reflect water, renewal, resilience, and awakening.
If you’re looking for meaningful ideas for a March birthday gift — or you’re simply curious about the folklore and history tied to this transitional month — there’s far more to explore than just one gemstone.
The symbols for March include birth symbols that have been 'officially' published and similar across many sources and regions. However, there are also 'unofficial' symbols that are traditionally associated with a particular month or season such as certain birds and animals. These can vary widely across countries and cultures. The first section covers the more familiar symbols followed by a section on some of these additional symbols.
depicting March's birthstone, color and flower.
Official March Symbols
Aquamarine: The Cool Blue Birthstone of March
The modern birthstone for March is aquamarine, a luminous blue member of the beryl family. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “water of the sea”, and one glance at a fine specimen explains why.
Ancient writers such as Pliny the Elder described beryl varieties in his encyclopedic Natural History. Over centuries, pale blue beryl became increasingly prized, especially in Europe. By the early 20th century, aquamarine was formally standardized as March’s birthstone by organizations including Jewelers of America, helping to unify what had previously been regional traditions.
Geologically, aquamarine forms in granite pegmatites, often in impressively large crystals. Brazil has historically produced some of the most famous examples, though deposits are also found in Pakistan, Madagascar, and Nigeria. The stone’s blue color is caused by traces of iron within its crystal structure. Many aquamarines are gently heat-treated to enhance the pure blue tone by reducing greenish hues — a widely accepted practice in gemmology.
Symbolically, aquamarine has long been associated with calm, clarity, and protection. Roman sailors reportedly carried it as a talisman for safe voyages. Whether or not one subscribes to the folklore, its tranquil blue color makes it easy to see why it became linked with serenity and clear communication.
As a gift, aquamarine is wonderfully versatile. It works beautifully in pendants and earrings where light can pass through the stone. Because large clean crystals are relatively common, aquamarine allows for impressive-looking jewelry without the price tag of some other precious gems. A pale blue aquamarine ring for a March birthday feels seasonal — like carrying a piece of clear spring sky on your hand.
Bloodstone: March’s Older, Earthier Gem
Before aquamarine rose to prominence, bloodstone was widely recognized as March’s birthstone. Also known as heliotrope, bloodstone is a dark green variety of chalcedony flecked with red spots of iron oxide.
The name heliotrope comes from Greek words meaning “sun-turning,” reflecting ancient beliefs about its interaction with light. Medieval lapidaries described bloodstone as a stone of endurance and vitality, and it was often carved into seals and devotional objects.
Unlike transparent aquamarine, bloodstone is opaque and grounded in appearance. Its deep green base color, marked by dramatic red specks, gives it a rugged charm. It has historically been sourced from India and parts of Europe.
Symbolically, bloodstone represents strength and resilience. If aquamarine reflects the watery, fluid side of March, bloodstone embodies the firmness of earth beneath thawing soil.
As a gift, bloodstone has a distinctive vintage feel. It suits signet rings, cufflinks, carved pendants, or even worry stones. For someone who prefers bold, earthy tones over pastel blues, bloodstone can be the more personal and meaningful option.
The Colors of March
March’s birthstone colors tell two very different stories.
Aquamarine’s palette ranges from icy pale blue to deeper sea-blue and blue-green shades. Blue has long been associated with tranquility and openness. In art and psychology alike, it is considered calming and expansive.
Bloodstone, by contrast, combines forest green with sharp flashes of red. The color pairing feels dramatic and rooted in nature — moss and berries, leaves and earth.
Choosing a March-themed gift doesn’t even require selecting the stone itself. A silk scarf in aquamarine blue or a deep green leather accessory inspired by bloodstone colors can subtly echo the birth month without being overtly symbolic.
March Birth Flowers: Daffodil and Jonquil
If there is one flower that captures March in bloom, it is the daffodil.
Daffodil (Narcissus)
Daffodils belong to the genus Narcissus and are among the earliest flowers to bloom in spring. Their cheerful yellow trumpets often push through cold ground while winter is still lingering.
The flower’s name connects to Greek mythology, and it has appeared in European herbals since the Renaissance. Today, the Royal Horticultural Society recognizes hundreds of cultivated daffodil varieties.
Daffodils traditionally symbolize renewal and fresh beginnings. It’s not hard to see why. After months of grey skies, their bright petals feel like optimism made visible.
For a March birthday, daffodils make a wonderfully symbolic gift. A simple bouquet carries immediate seasonal charm. For something longer-lasting, you might give potted bulbs, botanical art prints, or even jewelry engraved with a narcissus motif.
Jonquil
Jonquils are a specific type of narcissus known for their smaller, fragrant blooms that often grow in clusters. They tend to have a softer, more delicate appearance.
Traditionally associated with affection and desire for reciprocated love, jonquils add a subtle layer of sentiment to March’s floral story. Their refined look makes them especially appealing in fine illustration or vintage-inspired designs.
March Birth Trees: Ash and Alder
According to the Celtic tree calendar — reconstructed from medieval Irish sources — parts of March fall under the signs of the Ash and Alder trees.
Ash
The ash tree (Fraxinus) has deep mythological roots. In Norse legend, the world tree Yggdrasil is often identified as an ash. Historically, ash wood has been valued for its strength and flexibility, making it ideal for tool handles, spears, and even modern sports equipment.
Symbolically, ash represents connection and balance. It is sturdy yet adaptable — much like the month of March itself.
A gift inspired by ash might include handcrafted wooden keepsakes, picture frames, or even a tree-planting dedication in someone’s name.
Alder
Alder thrives in damp conditions and is known for improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. It has long been associated with resilience and protection, partly because alder wood resists decay in water.
March birthdays that fall under the alder sign carry that symbolism of courage and adaptability. A nature-themed gift or a sustainably sourced wooden item can subtly reflect that heritage.
Zodiac Signs of March: Pisces and Aries
March bridges two zodiac signs, each with a very different personality.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pisces, symbolized by two fish, is associated with imagination, empathy, and intuition. Ruled by Neptune, it carries a watery energy that pairs beautifully with aquamarine’s sea-blue tones.
For a Pisces March birthday, gifts that encourage creativity — such as journals, art supplies, or aquamarine jewelry — feel especially appropriate.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Aries marks the astrological new year. Ruled by Mars, Aries is bold, energetic, and forward-moving. March-born Aries individuals combine spring’s awakening with fiery determination.
While diamond is traditionally April’s birthstone, a late-March Aries can still claim aquamarine or bloodstone as their birth month gem. A striking aquamarine cocktail ring or a personalized Aries constellation print can make a thoughtful gift.
Free Birthstone Chart 🙂
Additional March Birthday Symbols
Birds of March: Robins and Bluebirds
As winter loosens its grip, certain birds become emblematic of March.
The robin, often seen hopping across thawing lawns, is widely regarded as a sign of spring’s arrival. In North America, the American robin becomes especially visible during this time. Its return has made it a seasonal symbol of renewal.
Bluebirds, too, are closely linked with early spring. Their bright plumage stands out against still-bare branches, making them powerful visual reminders that warmer days are coming.
Bird-themed gifts — from illustrated prints to garden ornaments — can beautifully reflect the spirit of a March birthday without leaning on gemstones or astrology.
Animals of Early Spring: Lambs and Hares
March has long been associated with lambing season. In agricultural calendars, this was a crucial time of year. The image of a lamb has become symbolic of gentleness and new life.
Hares are another traditional symbol of early spring. In European folklore, they were associated with fertility and the changing seasons. Their increased visibility in open fields during March reinforced that connection.
For someone born in March, gifts featuring lamb or hare motifs — perhaps in artwork or handcrafted décor — subtly nod to the rhythms of the season.
Insects of March: Bees and Butterflies
As temperatures rise, insects begin to reappear.
Honeybees emerge to forage on early blossoms, including crocuses and daffodils. Bees have long symbolized industry and cooperation. Their presence in March signals that pollination — and therefore growth — is underway.
Butterflies, though more prominent later in spring, begin appearing in milder climates during March. They represent transformation, fitting perfectly with a month defined by transition.
Jewelry featuring bee or butterfly motifs makes for charming and meaningful March birthday gifts, particularly for nature lovers.
Choosing a Meaningful March Birthday Gift
One of the pleasures of March symbolism is its variety. You can lean toward gemstones, flowers, trees, wildlife, or zodiac imagery depending on the personality of the recipient.
A classic aquamarine pendant feels timeless and elegant. A bloodstone signet ring carries old-world character. A bouquet of daffodils brings instant brightness. A handcrafted wooden keepsake nods to ancient tree lore. A robin illustration or bee-themed necklace captures the energy of early spring.
Layering symbols can make a gift even more thoughtful. Imagine an aquamarine bracelet presented alongside a handmade birthday card illustrated with daffodils and a note referencing the recipient’s zodiac sign. It turns a simple birthday present into a story about who they are and the season in which they were born.
Which Day of the Week is my/their March Birthday?
March 2026 Calendar
| SUN | MON | TUE | WED | THU | FRI | SAT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 1 | Mar 2 | Mar 3 | Mar 4 | Mar 5 | Mar 6 | Mar 7 |
| Mar 8 | Mar 9 | Mar 10 | Mar 11 | Mar 12 | Mar 13 | Mar 14 |
| Mar 15 | Mar 16 | Mar 17 | Mar 18 | Mar 19 | Mar 20 | Mar 21 |
| Mar 22 | Mar 23 | Mar 24 | Mar 25 | Mar 26 | Mar 27 | Mar 28 |
| Mar 29 | Mar 30 | Mar 31 |
Final Thoughts
March is a month of movement — from cold to warmth, from dormancy to growth. Its symbols reflect water and earth, imagination and action, fragility and strength.
Whether expressed through the cool clarity of aquamarine, the grounded character of bloodstone, the optimism of daffodils, the resilience of ash and alder, or the lively return of birds and bees, March offers a rich tapestry of meaning.
For anyone born in this transitional month, those symbols provide more than trivia. They offer a way to connect a birthday to history, nature, and tradition — and they offer you a thoughtful starting point when choosing a gift that feels personal, seasonal, and lasting.
Key Book References
G.F. Herbert Smith, Gemstones
Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the World
Pliny the Elder, Natural History
John Matthews, The Celtic Tree Oracle
Other Sources
- Gemological Institute of America
- Jewelers of America
- Royal Horticultural Society
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