A Guide to Birthstones
Gemstones have captivated people across centuries and countries with their distinctive colors and inherent beauty. But what are birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones that correspond to the birth month and are associated with distinct meanings and historical significance. While the idea of a birthstone is a modern creation, its roots can be traced back to biblical times.
It is believed to have originated from the Breast Plate of Aaron, which contained twelve gemstones to represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Many people believe that the breastplate bought divine favor and protection.
It's interesting to note that the birthstones we use today differ from those used in ancient times. Previously, traditional gemstones included both transparent and opaque ones, such as turquoise, opal, and pearl. However, the modern list of birthstones only features transparent gems.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of birthstones and explore their meanings.
Birthstones for each month
January: Garnet
Garnet comes in a range of colors from deep red to purple, yellow, orange, and various shades of green. They signify love and friendship. Many people believe that this stone instills courage in the face of challenges and protects from all negative energies.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst is a type of quartz that is known for its spectacular purple hue, which is a unique blend of red and deep violet to a lighter lilac. The gemstone is known for its spiritual and calming properties. Additionally, this stone is also said to provide courage, relieve stress, and stimulate emotional balance.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is reminiscent of the sea owing to its color, which ranges from pale to deep blue. While the darker stones have greater value, people prefer the lighter and clearer stones in their jewelry. Derived from the Latin word “sea water”, the gemstone was used to protect the sailors at sea. Today, it is considered to enhance good health, love, wealth, and desire.
April: Diamond
Diamonds come in various shades like yellow, blue, pink, and more. While white diamonds are most common, the value depends on cut, color, and clarity. Due to their properties of hardness, durability, and beauty, diamonds are linked with eternal love and strength.
May: Emerald
Emeralds are widely known for their lush green color, which evokes freshness and growth during the spring season. But they can also be found in blue and yellow hues. Legends believe that this gemstone carries a profound meaning of rebirth and growth. Thus, emeralds are used to promote healing and instill the wearer with enhanced intelligence.
June: Pearl
Pearls are the only gemstones found within living cultures. However, today in the market, we see cultivated or cultured pearls due to their rarity in nature. The unblemished surfaces of the finest pearls represent honesty, wisdom, and purity. In addition to that, they also exhibit characteristics of emotional healing and tranquility.
July: Ruby
Rubies are one of the most popular jewelry stones with the red hues reaching various levels of saturation. The value of this stone increases based on color and quality. They are credited with increasing the strength and stamina of the wearer. Furthermore, rubies are thought to calm anger and help the wearer navigate intense social situations.
August: Peridot
Peridot is known for its signature lime green color. But they are also found in varied shades, from zesty lime to rich olive green. The gemstone has long been considered an aid to removing envious thoughts, stimulating friendships, and protecting the wearer from evil. They also host magical powers and healing properties.
September: Sapphire
Sapphires are commonly found in blue color. However, they can occur in a wide variety of colors, except red. It is considered a protective gemstone that also hosts medicinal properties. Thus, sapphires protect the wear from physical harm, envy, and bad intentions.
October: Opal
Opals are distinctive stones and the unique display of changing colors flashes with every movement. They are associated with light and magic due to their dynamic appearance. It is said to act as an emotional stabilizer and release inhibitions to bring out loyalty and faithfulness.
November: Citrine
Citrine is an attractive yellow-to-red-orange gem that is part of the quartz family. The hues of this gemstone associate it with healing and happiness. They are thought to bring relief from various ailments like stomach aches, insomnia, stress, and more.
December: Tanzanite
Tanzanite comes in a striking velvety blue hue with an overtone of purple. It is associated with optimism and inspiration. Some say that tanzanite helps the wearer overcome fear, rebuild trust, and transform destructive urges into constructive ones.
Whether you are looking for a gemstone ring adorned with your birthstone or a set of your birthstone earrings, we are here to help.
