About Birthstone Jewelry
History of Birthstones
Chances are you can name your birthstone, but have you ever wondered how certain stones came to be associated with particular months? Most gem scholars trace the tradition to the Old Testament story of Aaron, whose breastplate was decorated with twelve precious stones, one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were linked with certain powers and tied to particular astrological signs, and later to calendar months.
There are many variations of birthstone lists, including Mystical birthstones, which originate from Tibet and date back over a thousand years, and Ayurvedic birthstones, associated with ancient Indian medicine and beliefs. Birthstones have also been tied to ancient Pagan religions, and even to the collective wisdom of the legendary lost city of Atlantis.
The Modern birthstone list, perhaps the most universally known, was released by the American National Association of Jewelers and officially adopted in 1912. Whether you embrace birthstone lore, or look upon it with a skeptical eye, there is an undeniable appeal to collecting a beautiful gemstone that is reputed to hold special power, meaning, and good fortune just for you.
January Birthstone: Garnet
Garnets come in a variety of colors but are best known for their deep red shade. January's birthstone is associated with faithfulness, sincerity, truth, and grace, and those born in this month are said to be loyal, devoted friends.
February Birthstone: Amethyst
Because of its regal purple hue, amethyst has long been a favorite of kings, queens, and other nobles. While it signifies wealth and strength, amethyst is also a symbol of soberness, tranquility, and wisdom.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Like the beautiful waters of the sea that give this stone its name, aquamarine is associated with clarity, tranquility, and peace of mind. Aquamarine’s beautiful light blue color, reminiscent of both ocean and sky, seems highly attuned to nature.
April Birthstone: Diamond
April's birthstone is remarkably simple in composition, yet stunning in its unique ability to reflect and refract light into vivid flashes of brilliant color. The ancient Hindus called the Diamond "Vajra," meaning lightening, both because of the sparks of light thrown off by this gem as well as its invincible strength. The Diamond is harder than any other substance on earth.
Diamond is symbolic of everlasting love.
Diamond is symbolic of everlasting love.
May Birthstone: Emerald
May's birthstone, with its vibrant, bottomless green, is a powerful symbol of renewal, fertility, and joy. Those born in May carry the emerald to attract success, personal growth, and inner peace. Some say this captivating stone even helps predict the future.
June Birthstone: Pearl
June's birthstone, such as the Greek belief that pearls were the hardened tears of joy that the goddess of love shook from her eyes as she was born from the sea.Those born in June wear pearl as symbols of health and longevity
June's birthstone, such as the Greek belief that pearls were the hardened tears of joy that the goddess of love shook from her eyes as she was born from the sea.Those born in June wear pearl as symbols of health and longevity
July Birthstone: Ruby
Known as "king of the gems" in ancient Sanskrit, the ruby has long been prized for its rarity and its passionate red hue. Those born in July wear rubies as symbols of beauty, love, happiness, and good fortune.
August Birthstone: Peridot
The lively light green hue of August's birthstone conveys positive energy and optimism, and those born in August are said to be happy, generous people. Peridot is also believed to promote tranquility, enhance speech, and foster good relationships in marriage.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
September's birthstone has been used by priests throughout the ages as a symbol of purity, and by kings as an emblem of wisdom. Those born in September are said to possess the qualities of the sapphire--truthfulness, sincerity, and steadfast loyalty.
October Birthstone: Opal
Known as the "seeing stone," opal is believed to provide inspiration and spiritual enlightenment. It is also said to elevate the mood and to help its wearer find true love.
November Birthstone: Citrine
Citrine is a golden yellow form of quartz, with a sunny hue that is naturally energizing and uplifting. November's birthstone is said to promote happiness and creativity and to nurture friendships.
December Birthstone: Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is prized for its soothing and captivating blue color, which is usually divided into three categories: sky blue for the palest shade, Swiss blue for the more saturated medium shade, and London blue for the deepest shade. Also known as an artist's stone, blue topaz is reputed to inspire creativity and enhance concentration