Birthstones: A Guide
Have you ever wondered what the birthstone assigned to your birth month means? How did it get chosen?
Birthstones hold a special place in jewelry pieces and are often worn in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and pendants. Jewelry set with an individual’s special birthstone can be personal and thoughtful gift.
Together all these stones and gems consist of a beautiful array of shapes, sizes, colors, transparency, tints, and shades. Here is your quick guide to the birthstones of each month.
January
As someone born at the beginning of the year, your special stone is garnet. The most popular form of garnet is a deep red crimson, although it can be found in a variety of colors.
Its name stems from the word “granatum,” meaning “seed” because of the stone’s resemblance to a pomegranate seed. Today the stone represents friendship and trust. The hardness of the stone makes it ideal for everyday wear.
February
Amethyst, a type of quartz, is the birthstone for those born in February.
It’s often associated with royalty because of its popular purple color. Deep rich purples, pale lilac, and violet are some of the most common shades of amethyst. It is believed to bring peace, courage, and protection to the wearer.
March
The stone for those born in March is aquamarine, a form of the mineral beryl, like emeralds.
The name aquamarine is derived from Latin where “aqua” means “water” and “marine” means “sea.” Sailors used to wear this gem to ward against mishaps out at sea. Aquamarine has a pale clear blue hue and is associated with youth, health, hope, and love. It is a gorgeous gem to be worn as earrings, bracelets, necklaces, or rings.
April
Diamonds, one of the most well-known, popular, and desired gems, is the birthstone for April.
In all their brilliance, diamonds have been a long-standing symbol for love and purity. They were once believed to be splinters of fallen stars by the ancient Greeks.
Diamonds dazzle onlookers as they split white light to emit that colorful shine they are so well known for.
May
This deep green jewel is the birthstone for May. Emerald, like aquamarine, is formed from the mineral beryl.
Emeralds have been admired and treasured throughout history by Egyptians, Romans, and even the Aztecs and Incas. They are associated with fertility, health, and faithfulness.
June
June’s birthstone is unique in that it is found under the sea.
Once believed to be dewdrops fallen from the heavens into the sea, they are now known to symbolize love, happiness, and success. As each pearl is unique, they come in a wide range of shades, but are best known for their lustrous creamy white hue.
July
The ruby – the birthstone for July – has been called the “King of Gemstones.”
In ancient times it was worn as protection against evil and harm and can be associated with love and passion. It is a type of corundum known for its deep red color. With its name stemming from the Latin word “ruber” or red, the color of the ruby determines its value, with darker reds being rare and highly valued.
August
August’s birthstone – peridot – is the gem from space. They are made up from the mineral olivine which can be found in meteorites.
During the Middle Ages, peridot was worn to ward off evil spirits and symbolize strength. It is a vibrant green gemstone prized most highly in an intense olive-green hue.
September
If you were born in September, sapphire is the stone for you.
It is popular for its velvety deep blue hue, but it can be found other colors as well. Sapphires are a type of corundum, like rubies, that signifies wisdom, power, and faith. Look for vivid color saturation when looking for sapphires. With a wide color-filled spectrum, it is a beautiful addition to any piece of jewelry.
October
For those born in October, your birthstone is opal. The name opal comes from the Greek word “opallos” meaning “to see a change.” This is an appropriate name, because although opal is known for its primary milky white color, it changes colors as light hits the stone in different places.
Symbolizing innocence, purity, and hope, opal also offers a unique look for every piece adorned with this stone.
November
Topaz, a yellow-gold gem, is the birthstone for November.
The ancient Egyptians used this stone to represent the sun god Ra due to its fiery colors. It is said to bring the wearer of this gem balanced emotions and a harmonious lifestyle.
December
The winter month of December is assigned turquoise as its birthstone. It is well known for its blue color but can range in shade and transparency.
This stone is thought to have healing powers and fend off evil and bring good fortune. It can be cut into almost any shape or size, making it versatile for a wide variety of uses.
Custom Jewelry for Every Need
No matter your gemstone needs, the skilled jewelry artists at Gold Thumb Jewelry can help you craft the piece of your dreams. From rings to full necklaces and everything in between, our team works with you to find the perfect fit. Call today!