Birthstones
The wearing of birthstones is thought to bring good luck, good health, and protection. We share the below guide for fun, not science, and note:
- The birthstones we associate with certain months now are not necessarily the same ones as those used centuries ago.
- Color was once the most important feature of a stone, which meant that there was no significant difference in meaning between a ruby and a garnet, for example.
- The names used in the past may not relate to the stone we think of with that name today, too. Sapphire was probably what we know today as lapis. Diamonds were most likely white sapphire or white topaz.
Again, fun! Not science ;-)
JANUARY
Garnet is thought to keep the wearer safe during travel. The word “garnet” is derived from a term that means “seed,” because the gem resembles the color and shape of a pomegranate seed. Its suggested garnet provides wearers with loyalty and unchanging affection. It is also thought to encourage success in business.
14k Gold Bezel Wrapped Garnet Studs by Melissa Joy Manning
FEBURARY
Amethyst is said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage. At one time, only royalty could wear the gem. Ancient Greeks thought that the amethyst guarded against intoxication. In fact, “amethyst” comes from amethystos, a Greek word meaning “sober.”
Tibetan Necklace by Sharing Bijoux
MARCH
Aquamarine was thought to cure heart, liver, and stomach diseases— all one had to do was drink the water in which the gem had been soaking. Early sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, etched with the likeness of the sea god Neptune, protected them against ocean dangers.
Round Aquamarine Armored Pendant Necklace by Mellisa Joy Manning
APRIL
In addition to being a symbol of everlasting love, Diamonds were once thought to bring courage. In Sanskrit, the diamond is called vajra, which also means lightning; in Hindu mythology, vajra was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods.
Coiled Diamond Studs by Linn
MAY
Emerald was one of Cleopatra’s favorite gems. It has long been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience. We don’t have any emerald jewelry, currently, but suggest these earrings as they capture the light in a variety of ways, including deep green.
Labradorite Post Earrings by Melissa Joy Manning
JUNE
Pearl has long been a symbol of purity. The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, the goddess of love. In the ancient Sanskrit text the Atharvaveda, pearls were said to bestow long life and prosperity. Fun fact: Pearls are the only gem found within a living creature!
Puff Love Freshwater Pearl Choker by Loren Stewart
JULY
Ruby was regarded by ancient Hindus as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. The July stone is traditionally believed to boost mental strength and reinforce courage. Today, the ruby’s deep-red color signifies love and passion. We don’t have any ruby jewelry, currently, but suggest these antique gold earrings as their design bring charm and singularity to the wearer.
No. 849 Earrings by Marie Laure Chamorel
AUGUST
Peridot symbolizes strength. It is sometimes called the “evening emerald” for its light green color. It was once believed that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele. When set in gold, this gem was said to protect the wearer from nightmares.
T.Bee Sparkly Duo Bracelet by Sharing
SEPTEMBER
Sapphire was once thought to guard against evil and poisoning. It was believed that a venomous snake would die if placed in a vessel made of sapphire. Traditionally a favorite stone of priests and kings, the sapphire symbolizes purity and wisdom.
Single Drop Bezel Wrapped Sapphire Earrings by Melissa Joy Manning
OCTOBER
Opal symbolizes faithfulness and confidence. The word comes from the Latin opalus, meaning “precious jewel.” Necklaces with opals set in them were worn to repel evil and to protect eyesight. We don’t have any opal jewelry, currently, but suggest this brooch as it design evokes a playful kindness we think confident and faithful October babies also embody.
Embroidered Flower Brooch by Trovelore
NOVEMBER
The origin of the gem, Topazs name is believed by some to come from the Sanskrit word, tapas or tapaz, meaning fire; others date its name origin to the Greek word topazios, the name for a small island in the Red Sea. Either way, it symbolizes love and affection— and believed to give the wearer increased strength and intellect. PS. Happy belated birthday! We don’t have any topaz jewelry, currently, but suggest this woven bracelet as the luxury craftmanship and bold design act as a talisman strength.
Woven Gold Bracelet by Marie Laure Chamorel
DECEMBER
Turquoise is regarded as a love charm. It is also a symbol of good fortune and success, and it is believed to relax the mind and to protect its wearer from harm. Turquoise rings, in particular, are thought to keep away evil spirits.
Single Drop Bezel Wrapped Turquoise Earrings by Melissa Joy Manning