The History of Birthstones
Did you know that birthstones have a fascinating history, dating back to ancient times? The concept of birthstones can be traced back to biblical times and is believed to originate from the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial religious garment worn by the High Priest of Israel. The breast plate was adorned with twelve gemstones, each one representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Overtime, the practice of wearing a different gemstone to represent one’s birth month became widespread. Different cultures assigned different gemstones to different birth months based on astrological and mythical beliefs. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers in the United States created the first official lists of birthstones. This list has been altered over time, with the most widely accepted modern birthstone list being established by the American Gem Trade Associated in 1952. Today, birthstones remain a popular and meaningful way to celebrate one’s birth month.
Personalize Your Jewelry with Birthstones
Each gemstone is believed to possess unique qualities and symbolism which bring good luck to the wearer. Adding a birthstone to jewelry adds special significance to the piece. There are several ways to add meaning to jewelry by incorporating birthstones. One way is to create a piece that includes the birthstones of family members. For instance, a mother’s pendant could incorporate the birthstones of her children or grandchildren. This can be a beautiful way to keep loved ones close, even when they are not physically present. Another popular way to use birthstones is to choose a piece that features the birthstone of the wearer. This can be a simple, yet beautiful and special way to celebrate yourself or someone you love. Birthstone rings, necklaces, or bracelets are great ways to showcase these precious stones.
The Unique Meanings of Each Birthstone
January – Garnet: This birthstone is associated with love, devotion and passion. It’s believed to help promote self-confidence and positive energy.
February – Amethyst: Associated with calmness, tranquility and inner strength, amethyst is thought to evoke spiritual awareness and creativity.
March – Aquamarine: Courage, clarity and serenity are the gifts of aquamarine. This birthstone is regarded for assisting with communication and lowering stress.
April – Diamond: This precious gemstone is associated with purity, strength and love. Diamond is thought to promote emotional harmony and bring good fortune.
May – Emerald: Emerald is associated with growth, wisdom and patience. This gemstone is thought to enhance intuition and inspirational energy.
June – Pearl or Alexandrite: Pearl is linked with purity, innocence and loyalty. Alexandrite is associated with good luck, increased creativity and enhanced intuition.
July – Ruby: This gemstone is associated with passion, vitality and power. Ruby is regarded for promoting prosperity, courage and self-confidence.
August – Peridot: Associated with joy, good luck, and protection, peridot is believed to promote harmony and balance.
September – Sapphire: Sapphire is linked to wisdom, truth and sincerity. Wearing this gemstone is believed to promote spiritual enlightenment and promote inner peace.
October – Opal: Associated with creativity, imagination and inspiration, opal is also linked with good luck, protection and self-confidence.
November – Topaz: Topaz is regarded for promoting healing and is believed to protect against negative energy and promote intuition.
December – Turquoise and Zircon: Turquoise is linked with good fortune, protection and wisdom. Zircon is regarded for promoting prosperity and protecting against negative energy.
*To learn more information about each individual birthstone, be sure to review Guida Jeweler’s education page here. You will find detailed information about each precious gemstone, including interesting facts as well as education regarding enhancements.*
Let Guida Jewelers Help You Select or Create the Perfect Birthstone Piece
Gifting someone a piece of jewelry that features their birthstone or signifies those that they love is a thoughtful way to show that you care. It’s a meaningful gift that will be treasured for years to come. Whether for yourself or for someone you love, selecting jewelry that features a birthstone is a great way to personalize any piece.
Come visit Guida Jewelers at our local shop in Denville, NJ today, and work with an AGS Certified Gemologist to help you make your birthstone decision. AGS Certified Gemologists have the knowledge and tools to identify synthetic gemstones and educate you about different enhancements, so that you can receive expert guidance. At Guida Jewelers, we specialize in custom jewelry and can help you create a meaningful new piece or adorn an existing piece to add sentimental value. We also have an amazing collection of designer jewelry, and can help guide you to pieces that already feature birthstones.
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