Blue Topaz
The icy-blue of topaz is well suited to December. Those born in the last month of the year gain a pleasant disposition and patient attitude from blue topaz. It is also a symbol of fidelity and love, and is said to cure many diseases.
Birthstones
Birthstone Jewelry
Birthstone jewelry dates back to ancient history. Throughout the ages people have had the strong desire to adorn themselves with items not only of beauty, but also meaning and birthstone jewelry is just one example. These meanings can manifest themselves in any number of ways including personal meaning and the belief that birthstones possess a medicinal affect. When searching for a piece of birthstone jewelry, it can be helpful and interesting to understand the history, the beliefs that some hold surrounding it and some of the most popular forms of this type of jewelry.
The History of the Birthstone
Since ancient times, people from across the world have valued beautiful stones and minerals, incorporating them into their everyday lives. Civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Incas and Aztecs strongly believed that these gemstones possess many attributes, curative powers and even the power to convey the soul to peace in the afterlife. While the value of gemstones is consistent across ancient history, the story of their integration as birthstones is less clear.
Although there is no definitive source for the assignment of gemstones as individual birthstones by the world’s peoples, there are a number of legends and several lists that document differing groups of birthstones. They include:
Mythical Birthstones are said to come from the ancient Tibetan culture and date back thousands of years.
Biblical Birthstones were mentioned in the Bible’s Old Testament suggesting that the twelve birthstones can be traced to the twelve tribes of Israel.
Ayurvedic Birthstones date back to ancient Indian culture and those who believed that specific stones have medicinal effects.
Zodiac Birthstones have evolved over thousands of years as astrologers have assigned gems of certain colors to the twelve signs of the zodiac to help people influence the planets in their favor.
Modern Birthstones did not exist until 1912 when the Jewelers of American developed a list of birthstones in an effort to settle on a standardized list of birthstones.
Despite the lack of clarity among the handful of different lists, it’s clear that many people believe that some gemstones have special meaning and perhaps power. For the buyer of birthstone jewelry, it’s certainly helpful to identify those qualities that he or she finds meaningful before making their purchase. For more information, here is a chart based on the list of modern birthstones:
Citrine
Those born in November benefit from citrine’s cheerful qualities, which include making its owner lighthearted and hopeful. It also relaxes the body and helps cleanse it of toxins.
Opal
The complex and colorful opal ensures fidelity and confidence for people born in October, in addition to sharpening the mind and emotions. Legend says that it is especially good for the eyes.
Sapphire
The cool blue sapphire marks the season’s shift from summer to autumn. To those born in the transition month of September, it relaxes and clears the mind. It also protects its owner from fraud, envy and ill health.
Peridot
Brings friendship, will help one born in August to steer clear of envy and helps ward off depression and fear. It can also be used to help gain divine inspiration, strengthen the effect of medicine and improve one’s speech.
Ruby
The height of summer is the month of the red-hot ruby, symbol of zeal and passion. It gives people born in July undying vigor and brings them fortune and love. It is also a powerful protector for those surrounded by unfriendly forces.
Pearl
The elegant pearl brings to the June-born its qualities of modesty and purity. Pearls simple form belies the shimmering color just under the surface. Like its wearer, it is understated but undeniably precious.
Emerald
The bright green emerald graces people born in the greenest month, May. Its color is associated with fertility and joy. Emerald also can help tell the future and sharpen the mind.
Diamond
Although usually thought of as the jewel of love and power, diamond also has special powers for people born in April. It strengthens their body and soul, and helps protect their innocence and bring out their best qualities.
Aquamarine
The cool and optimistic aquamarine provides a sense of youth and hope, like the new spring that comes each March. It also protects health and is especially appropriate for people who love the sea.
Amethyst
The even-tempered amethyst, said to prevent drunkenness, also helps keep those born in February on an even keel. It brings peace of mind and drives away enflamed passions and worries.
Garnet
The warm, bright garnet stands in contrast to this cold month. Garnet brings to those born in January friendship, loyalty and sincerity and the stone is said to have the power to ensure good health and protect its owner during travel.