Traditionally a birthstone is associated with each month of the year and is worn in jewelry. But how did this come to be? What
are the birthstones for each month and what do they represent?
The first century
Jewish historian Josephus believed there was a connection between the
twelve stones in Aaron's breastplate signifying the tribes of Israel in
the book of Exodus, the twelve months of the year, and the twelve signs of the
zodiac. Each culture has different meanings for birthstones; here we will
discuss modern western culture birthstone meaning.
In 1912, the American
National Association of Jewelers created a list in an effort to standardize
birthstones. This list has been updated
somewhat since, but the original remains as the primer with the color being the
most important feature of the stone.
January- Garnet
The word garnet comes from the 14th-century
middle-English word gernet, meaning 'dark red'. Garnet
traditionally is a symbol of faith, love and constancy. The garnet is a
stone of regeneration, energy, and revitalization. It is thought to keep the
wearer safe during travel and help provide guidance.
February-Amethyst
At one time, only
royalty could wear the gem. Ancient Greeks thought that the amethyst guarded
against intoxication adding the stone to their cup. Amethyst comes from
amethystos, a Greek word meaning “sober.”. Purple amethyst speaks of peace, temperance, serenity
and royalty.
It is a symbol of protection and has the power to overcome
difficulty and bring courage. It encourages self-control and strengthens the
bond in a love relationship. Amethyst is also believed to help bring mental and
emotional well-being. Amethyst is a common gemstone worn by healers, having
the power to focus energy.
March-Aquamarine
Early sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, etched
with the likeness of the Roman sea god Neptune, protected them against ocean
dangers. Aquamarine’s soothing blue color is believed to bring mental
clarity and releases negative energy. Blue aquamarine gemstones are associated
with good health, youth, love, creativity, self-expression, and hope. It
is a protective stone for pregnant women, as it a protective stone for mother
and child. It is thought to help
thyroid, liver, hormones, and the heart.
April- Diamond
In ancient times, it was believed that diamonds were the
tears of the gods. In Sanskrit, it is called “vajra,” meaning lightning; in
Hindu mythology, vajra was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods. Once thought
to bring courage, it is the symbol of everlasting love…it’s no wonder it is the
most popular gem for engagement rings. The diamond is the symbol of purity,
innocence, eternity and courage. It also used as an energy amplifier bringing
strength and endurance.
May- Emerald
The emerald was the favorite gem of Cleopatra. Ancient
Romans dedicated this stone to Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. Thought
to be a symbol of fertility, rebirth, and love. Today, emeralds signify wisdom,
growth, and patience. Emeralds are believed to aid in recovery for disorders of
the heart, lungs, vision, spine and muscular system.
June- Pearl or Moonstone
Pearls have been a symbol of purity throughout history. The
ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from
Aphrodite, the goddess of love. They are thought to help the wearer calm a
restless mind and control anger. Pearls are worn to protect soft organs, as
well as improve the skin.
Moonstones most prominent features are calming and soothing
of emotions. It is the Yin to the Yang. Moonstone is filled with passive female
energy and that is why it is believed to calm strong reaction and restore
conscious control over our emotions. Itis sacred in India, where the popular
belief is that it brings a long and healthy live.
July- Ruby
Traditionally, the ruby has been regarded by ancient Hindus
as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. Today,
the ruby’s deep-red color signifies love and passion. The ruby is
associated with harmony, protection, enthusiasm, contentment, success,
integrity and strength. The ruby encourages removal of negative energies from
your path. It overcomes exhaustion and lethargy and imparts potency and vigor.
August- Peridot
Peridot is a symbol of 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. Tradition says you will be able to successfully
ward off evil, enchantments and depression and battles lethargy, apathy, and
exhaustion.
September- Sapphire
Once believed to ward off evil and poisoning, It was
believed that a venomous snake would die if put in a container made of the stone.
A favorite gem of priests and kings, the sapphire symbolizes purity
and wisdom. They symbolize dignity, loyalty, serenity, faith, purity and
wisdom. It is also believed it helps combat blood disorders.
October- Opal
The opal symbolizes hope, innocence, 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. It is believed that they help strengthen memory and
fight infection.
November- Topaz or Citrine
Available in an array of colors, the topaz symbolizes love
and affection. It is believed to give the wearer increased strength and
intellect. Topaz is also linked with wisdom, strength, courage and
serenity. It is believed to stimulate digestion and metabolism.
December- Turquoise
Turquoise, is regarded as a love charm and is a symbol of
good fortune and success. It is believed to calm the mind and to protect its
wearer from harm. Turquoise rings, specifically, are thought to ward off
evil spirits. It is believed to enhance the immune system.