Embarking on a journey to explore the mesmerizing world of birthstones can be both exciting and informative. For centuries, these precious stones have fascinated mankind with their alleged mystical properties and captivating beauty. Your curiosity has led you here, to learn about the 12 modern birthstones, each one associated with a different month of the year. Exploring this treasure trove of information will surely provide an insightful and engaging experience. Prepare yourself to delve into a world full of glittering gems and enchanting lore.
Overview of Modern Birthstones
In the vast world of gemstones, you’ll find a vibrant collection of dazzling cuts and colors. Each precious gem holds a unique meaning and is believed to invite certain energies into your life. One category that piques everyone’s interest is birthstones.
What are birthstones?
Birthstones are gems associated with the month of a person’s birth, each holding a profound meaning and symbolism. They are believed to bring good luck, health, and prosperity to its wearer. Their origin can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where people keenly believed in the magical powers of gemstones.
Difference between traditional and modern birthstones
If you’re wondering about the difference between traditional and modern birthstones, it lies primarily in their list. Traditional birthstones often have regional variations, tracing their roots to several historical calendars. They have been long associated with the culture and folklore of various civilizations.
On the other hand, modern birthstones are universal, with a standardized list recognized worldwide. They emerged in the 20th century when, in an attempt to standardize birthstones, The National Association of Jewelers released a list that is widely accepted today.
Who decides on modern birthstones?
The current list of modern birthstones was established by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. The list was aimed to settle any discrepancies and make the commerce of birthstone jewelry standardized and easier.
January: Garnet
Honoring the opening month of the year, Garnet is the birthstone for January.
Characteristics of garnet
This beautiful gemstone is typically deep red or wine in color and has a vitreous or glass-like luster. However, it can occasionally be found in a variety of other colors except for blue.
Spiritual and healing properties of garnet
Historically, garnets were known as the ‘traveler’s stone’, offering protection to the wearer during travels. Garnets are also believed to promote lasting friendships and ensure a high esteem. In terms of healing properties, they are said to purify and balance energy, and provide a sense of hope and empowerment.
Ideal garnet jewelry pieces
Given its rich color, garnets are ideally set in necklaces, rings, and bracelets. These pieces often showcase the garnet as a center stone to highlight its vivid hue.
February: Amethyst
Those born in the romantic month of February have the mystical Amethyst as their birthstone.
Characteristics of amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, recognized for its stunning purple color, which can range from a light lavender to a deep, intense royal purple. This gemstone is also known for its durability and affordability.
Spiritual and healing properties of amethyst
Amethysts have been long associated with qualities like peace, courage, and stability. They are known to calm the mind and promote emotional balance. Being a stone of spiritual growth, it is also used for meditation purposes.
Ideal amethyst jewelry pieces
With its royal color, amethyst looks striking on any jewelry piece, but particularly in earrings and pendants. Its durability also makes it suitable for ‘everyday’ rings.
March: Aquamarine
The March-born individuals are blessed with the serene and sophisticated Aquamarine as their birthstone.
Characteristics of aquamarine
As the name suggests, Aquamarines exhibit a dazzling range of blue shades, mimicking the tranquil waters of the sea. These semi-precious gemstones are admired for their clarity and vitreous luster.
Spiritual and healing properties of aquamarine
Aquamarine, being a symbol of tranquility, is known to soothe and calm the wearer. It promotes honesty, loyalty, and enhances clear communication.
Ideal aquamarine jewelry pieces
Whether set into a pair of delicate earrings or as a solitary gemstone pendant, aquamarine offers a splash of color, bringing a piece of the ocean to your wardrobe.
April: Diamond
April-born individuals are fortunate to have the most precious gemstone in the world as their birthstone: the diamond.
Characteristics of diamond
Diamonds are renowned for their incredible durability, brilliant sparkle, and timeless elegance. They come in various colors, but the most popular ones are colorless.
Spiritual and healing properties of diamond
This supremely strong stone is considered to symbolize invincibility, courage, and eternal love. It also encourages honesty and enhances the wearer’s ability to handle challenges.
Ideal diamond jewelry pieces
Diamonds are a popular choice for all forms of jewelry, but they notably shine in engagement rings, symbolizing eternal love loyalty.
May: Emerald
Those celebrating their birthdays in May have the magnificent emerald as their birthstone.
Characteristics of emerald
Emeralds are known for their rich and vibrant green hue. These precious stones have been admired for centuries for their opaque transparency and beautiful green shades.
Spiritual and healing properties of emerald
Believed to symbolize rebirth and love, emeralds were dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, by ancient Romans. They are said to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth.
Ideal emerald jewelry pieces
Due to their stunning color, emeralds make impressive centerpieces in rings, earrings, and necklaces.
June: Pearl
Those born in June have the unique and lustrous pearl as their birthstone.
Characteristics of pearl
Pearls are exceptionally unique as they are the only gems that come from a living creature, requiring no faceting or polishing to reveal their innate beauty. They come in a variety of colors, but the most popular ones are white and cream.
Spiritual and healing properties of pearl
Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and integrity. Historically, they have been used in various cultures to help women connect with their ‘inner goddesses’ and obtain ultimate ‘feminine energy.’
Ideal pearl jewelry pieces
Pearls are made into a variety of jewelry like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Pearl stud earrings and solitaire pearl pendants are timeless pieces adored by many.
July: Ruby
The fervid and attention-grabbing ruby is the birthstone for those born in July.
Characteristics of ruby
Rubies are cherished for their deep red hue. They are incredibly durable and are ranked just below diamonds on the hardness scale, making them an excellent choice for daily-wearing jewelry.
Spiritual and healing properties of ruby
The ruby is considered a stone of courage, passion, and protection. It is believed to bring good fortune to its owner. Ancient cultures thought that rubies, when worn on the left hand, would allow the wearer to live peacefully.
Ideal ruby jewelry pieces
Rubies make for striking fashion statements when set in bracelets, rings, and necklaces. Their intense color stands out beautifully against both white and yellow metals.
August: Peridot
Those born in August have the vibrant and energetic peridot as their birthstone.
Characteristics of peridot
Peridots are one of the few gemstones that only occur in one color, ranging from lime to olive green. These gems are renowned for their high luster and transparency.
Spiritual and healing properties of peridot
Peridot is associated with strength, balance, and a keen sense of creativity. It is believed to bring peace, success, and good luck to its wearer.
Ideal peridot jewelry pieces
The bright and lively color of peridot makes it a perfect stone for bold, beautiful jewelry pieces such as necklaces and bracelets.
Caring for Your Birthstone Jewelry
Like all precious items, your birthstone jewelry requires a certain degree of care and attention to ensure it remains in excellent condition.
General tips for maintaining birthstone jewelry
Avoid exposing your birthstone jewelry to harsh chemicals and extreme heat as it can cause color to fade and the stone to crack. It’s also recommended to remove jewelry during activities that may cause physical damage.
Cleaning and storing birthstone jewelry
For cleaning, a soft, damp cloth or a professional jewelry cleaning solution can be used. For storage, keep your birthstone jewelry pieces separate to avoid scratches.
Protecting your birthstone jewelry from damage
To prevent any potential damage, it’s best to store your birthstone jewelry in a soft fabric-lined box. It’s also beneficial to have your jewelry pieces checked annually by a professional to ensure they are in good condition.
From garnets to peridots, this list of birthstones provides an overview of the deep and rich world of gemstones. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting a loved one, birthstone jewelry offers a charming personal touch to any jewelry collection.
