Birthstones

Birthstones have been used since the first century as a way to celebrate and acquire good luck on one’s birthday. Traditionally, gems were associated with each sign of the zodiac based on a color system, as color was thought to unleash the power attributed to the stone. Later, birthstones became associated with calendar months rather than the zodiac, with each gemstone having designated qualities and attributes.

There have been many different sets of birthstones used throughout history and in different cultures. In 1912, in an effort to standardize them, the American National Association of Jewelers established the modern birthstone chart, assigning an individual gem to each month.

 

JANUARY

Garnet is the birthstone for January, and is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 2nd year of marriage. The gemstone’s resemblance to pomegranate seeds earned its name, from the Latin word for the crimson fruit, granatum. Its deep red color signifies eternal friendship and trust as well as loyalty and faith. Legend holds that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. It reportedly also gives its wearer guidance in the night, protection from nightmares, and according to Egyptians, is an antidote for snakebites and food poisoning. Garnets are durable and brilliant and come in a wide range of hues and shapes.

FEBRUARY

Amethyst, the birthstone for February, was believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off intoxicating powers of Bacchus. It is said to have a sobering effect, keeping the wearer clear-headed and quick witted. It has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility; and some say it prevents baldness and improves complexion, as well as protection from treason and deceit. Amethyst is purple quartz, a beautiful blend of violet and red and is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 6th year of marriage.

MARCH

Two birthstones for March are aquamarine and bloodstone. Linked to the sea because of its distinctive blue-green hues, aquamarine was believed to protect sailors as well as to guarantee a safe voyage. Victorians gave this jewel to guarantee marital happiness and devotion. It is also considered to be a universal symbol of youth, hope, and happiness. Bloodstone is an alternative birthstone for March. An opaque quartz with red flecks, this ancient stone is believed to have healing powers, especially for blood disorders. It is sometimes called the Martyr’s Stone as legend tells that it was created when drops of Christ’s blood stained some jasper at the foot of the cross.

APRIL

Diamond is the birthstone for April. Diamonds are named after the Greek term for unconquerable; diamonds represent unequalled strength and determination. Diamonds also represent eternity and undying love, and are also universally identified as the gemstone for engagement rings.

MAY

Emerald, the birthstone of May, is the most highly prized of all gems. With its vibrant green hue, emerald is the symbol of rebirth, immortal love, wisdom and future success. It is said that emerald will bring good fortune and youth. According to legend, wearing emeralds cures a wide variety of ailments, including low IQ, poor eyesight, and infertility, but also allows the wearer to predict the future.

JUNE

Historically used an adornment for centuries, the pearl has been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity. The pearl is also associated with the wedding month of June and symbolizes a happy marriage.

JULY

Ruby is the birthstone for July and has long been considered a powerful gemstone. Legend says rubies will protect their owners from all sorts of danger and misfortune. Arousing the senses and stirring the imagination, rubies are said to guarantee health, wisdom, wealth, and love.

AUGUST

Peridot, the birthstone for August, is said to host magical powers and healing properties to protect against nightmares and to bring the wearer power, influence, and a wonderful year. Peridot is the product of volcanic action and is a lively lime green color.

SEPTEMBER

Sapphire, the September birthstone, has been popular since the Middle Ages, and according to folklore, will protect your loved ones from envy and harm. Medieval clergy wore sapphires to symbolize heaven, while commoners thought the gem attracted heavenly blessings. Sapphires are the second hardest gemstone, after diamonds, representing the indestructibility of love.

OCTOBER

The birthstone for October is opal, meaning “precious stone” in Sanskirt, and they can range in color from milky white to black with flashes of yellow, orange, green, red, and blue. Given opals fiery flashes of color; it was believed that lightning brought the gem to Earth. Opal has symbolized hope, innocence, and purity through the ages. Protection from disease was its main virtue, while also allowing the wearer to see the future.

NOVEMBER

Topaz, the birthstone for November, has been prized for several thousands of years in antiquity. Available in a rich rainbow of colors, topaz is believed to have calming and curative powers. It is also said to prove loyalty in friends and associates by changing colors in the presence of poison. During the Middle Ages, topaz was used to cure mental illness and was thought to delay death.

DECEMBER

Zircon is the traditional birthstone for the last month of the year. Found in a wide selection of colors, folk wisdom grants zircon the power to relieve pain, whet the appetite, protect travelers from disease and injury, ensure a warm welcome, and prevent nightmares.