Birthstones
Each and every birthstone truly has a unique characteristic, history and meaning. Another reason why we simply can’t get enough of the variety of gorgeous gemstones we find in nature. Definitely, a gift worth giving the next time you’re planning to surprise a loved one on their birthday.
January
The birthstone for January is the alluring Garnet. Garnet stands for true friendship, constancy and fidelity. The Greek word for Garnet means “fire like” and was said to give guidance in the night to the wearer. Garnets can be found in every color but are most commonly a rich red shade.
February
Vivid purple amethyst is the gemstone given to February birthdays. A member of the quartz family, amethyst is the purple variety of this stone. The deep purple hue was once considered the color of royalty. According to legend, amethyst was said to protect the wearer from harm and misfortune.
March
Aquamarine is known as the gem of the sea. It even comes from the Greek word for “sea water”. Its transparent blue-green hues help to set it apart from other members of the beryl family. Lore states that it gives courage and intellect to whoever wears it.
April
The diamond is the traditional birthstone of April and holds significant meaning for those born in that month, thought to provide the wearer with better relationships and an increase in inner strength. Wearing diamonds is purported to bring other benefits such as balance, clarity and abundance.
May
As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus,” means, quite literally, “green” in Greek.
June
Pearl is the “Queen of the Gems”. It is said that there is nothing more beautiful than a Pearl, except for the woman who wears them. Pearls are unique, elegant and perfect for every occasion.
Alexandrite has been described by poets as “emerald by day, ruby by night”. Named for Czar Alexander II, this gem shows green in fluorescent light and red in incandescent light.
Legend has it that Moonstone is a lucky gem made up of solidified moonbeams. Moonstone’s lovely glow is created when light scatters through its microscopic layers of feldspar.
July
Ruby is considered the most passionate of gems. It is said to bring charity, freedom, dignity and divine power. Rubies have an explosive, vibrant appearance. The wearer is said to be blessed with health, wealth, wisdom and success in affairs of the heart.
August
Peridot is found and treasured in many cathedrals in Europe. Peridot is said to repel nighttime terrors for the woman who wears it. The recent popularity of Peridot has only been surpassed by Egyptians who have coveted it for centuries.
September
Sapphire is the symbol of faithfulness, truth and sincerity. This exceptional gem is available in almost every color of the rainbow. The Sapphire was honored above all other gems because it was said to tell the future.
October
Opal captures beams of light which are reflected into “bonfires of color”. Opal is considered the gem of hope and purity. The rainbow of fiery colors are capable of brightening any mood.
Tourmaline has been said to be a stone of reconciliation, a stone that fosters compassion and cool headedness, radiates the energy that attracts money, healing and friendship, and is used for grounding purposes, to stabilize, and reaffirm our Earth roots.
November
The glow of this gem stone is considered to be from the Ancient Egyptians sun god, “Ra”. It is said to give strength to the wearer. Myth has said Citrine gems are pieces of the sun that have fallen to Earth.
December
Blue Topaz is considered the gem of strength. It meant to protect physically and give mental wisdom to its beholder. The Blue topaz was felt to be a guardian angel and was coveted by Ancient Egyptians.
Turquoise has been prized the whole world over, from the ancient people of Mesoamerica to Egypt and China. Its unique color sets it apart from all other gemstones.