All About Birthstones

The History of Birthstones

Throughout history certain birthstones have been used in traditions and religious practice. In the Bible certain birthstones, also known as gemstones were worn on the breastplates of Jewish high priests. There were twelve in all, each one representing a tribe of Israel. During the first century Roman-Jewish scholar and historian Flavius Josephus correlated the twelve gemstones to the twelve signs of the zodiac. Later, European jewelers formed the first birthstone listing, connecting each of the twelve gemstones to a specific month.

For thousands of years the twelve gemstones have been thought to grant protection and give power to those who wear them. But what do these birthstones represent when connected to their birth months and what are the “special powers” they grant to their wearers?

Birthstones by Month

For January, February and March the birthstones are garnet, amethyst and aquamarine respectively. The garnet gemstone is said to protect its wearer during. The amethyst birthstone represents peace and royalty. Amethyst is believed to strengthen relationships and provide courage. This gem is also a favorite worn by the Pope. The pale blue aquamarine gemstone is known for promoting good health, hope, and youthfulness.

For the spring and early summer months of April, May and June the gemstones are diamond, emerald and pearl. The diamond birthstone is associated with eternal love. The emerald birthstone represents health and loyalty and can improve the wearer's eyesight. The pearl birthstone is a symbol of good luck, and the only stone of the twelve birthstones that is naturally created.

For the remaining summer months of July, August and September the birthstones are ruby, peridot and sapphire. The ruby birthstone encourages harmony and peace. This red birthstone grants its wearer both good luck and friendship. The peridot birthstone is associated with strength and can protect its wearer from evil and depression. The sapphire birthstone represents dignity and serenity and can grant its wearer wisdom.

For the autumn and early winter months of October, November and December the birthstones are opal, citrine and turquoise. The opal birthstone symbolizes hope and innocence and can protect the wearer. The citrine birthstone encourages physical and mental healing and can grant its wearer good health and in both aspects. The turquoise birthstone represents a happy life and good fortune.

• January – Garnet
• February – Amethyst
• March – Aquamarine
• April – Diamond
• May – Emerald
• June – Alexandrite
• July – Ruby
• August – Peridot
• September – Sapphire
• October – Opal
• November – Citrine
• December – Zircon

With the knowledge of what birthstone represents each month, find the perfect birthstone jewelry piece to personalize for anyone in your life!

Source

• http://www.colorcombos.com/the-hidden-meaning-behind-your-birthstone-article.html
• http://www.americangemsociety.org/birthstones