Looking for a personalized way to celebrate your birth month or the birth month of a loved one? Then your quest would undoubtedly lead you to the vibrant cosmos of semi precious birthstones. As you journey through this article, you will encounter an array of sparkling crystals and gemstones — each associated with a particular month of the year. This dazzling collection can add a personal touch to your jewelry, making it a meaningful, fashion-forward way to commemorate your special moments. Read on to find out which semi-precious birthstone corresponds to your month and explore some of the fascinating histories, myths, and meanings surrounding these captivating stones.
Understanding Semi Precious Birthstones
Birthstones hold a significant place in many cultures around the world. Tied to each month of the Gregorian calendar, they are believed to bring fortune, good health, and even spiritual powers to those born in their respective months. Among these stones, semi precious birthstones are among the most well known and widely recognized.
Definition of semi precious birthstones
Semi precious birthstones are a set of gemstones that are linked with specific months of the year. Each month has one or more gemstone associated with it, and it is believed that wearing your birthstone can bring you good luck, heal illnesses and enhance your capabilities. Even though these gemstones are labeled as ‘semi’ precious, their aesthetic appeal, metaphysical properties, and historical significance are anything but second-rate. They range from the deep red garnet of January to the serene turquoise and zircon of December.
Difference between precious and semi precious birthstones
The terminology ‘precious’ and ‘semi precious’ stone can often cause confusion. The distinction traditionally lies in the rarity and perceived value of the stones. Precious stones typically refer to diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, which have been historically more rare and expensive. Conversely, semi precious stones include all other gemstones, despite some of them being rare and highly valuable as well. However, this differentiation is gradually becoming less prominent, as the value of many ‘semi’ precious stones is increasingly recognized.
January Birthstone: Garnet
Stepping into the new year, the garnet is the semi precious birthstone allocated to January.
History and symbolism of garnet
Garnets have a rich history dating back thousands of years. They were found in Egyptian jewelry from the Bronze Age and Roman officials wore garnet signet rings to stamp wax seals on important documents. Symbolically, garnets represent love, safety during travel, and are believed to keep the wearer safe from nightmares.
Physical properties of garnet
Typically associated with a deep and hearty red color, garnets actually come in a range of colors – from greens, oranges, pinkish oranges, deeply saturated purplish reds, and even some blues. The most common and recognizable garnet is the red pyrope garnet. Its vibrant, intense color and its durability, make it an ideal stone for all types of jewelry.
Garnet’s impact on personality and life
In terms of personal influence, garnet is said to promote courage, strength, and perseverance. It’s believed to imbue the wearer with improved self-esteem and higher energy levels. This stone is considered great for goal setting and achieving, making it a perfect start the year with.
February Birthstone: Amethyst
February’s semi precious birthstone is the magical and mystical amethyst.
Origins of amethyst
The amethyst stone boasts an ancient lineage, with its purple hues enchanting individuals from the Egyptians to the Greeks. It was once held at an equal value with the precious gemstones until vast deposits were found in Brazil making it accessible for everyone.
Key attributes and physical characteristics of amethyst
The amethyst is known for its captivating purple color, which can range from a light lilac to a deep, intense royal purple, and from brownish to vivid. This gemstone belongs to the quartz family and is durable enough for use in all types of jewelry.
Influence of amethyst on human nature
Amethyst is believed to have several physical and emotional healing properties. It’s said to aid in detoxification and blood circulation, and can help with emotional issues, such as anxiety and stress. Its purple hue is often associated with spirituality and peace, urging the wearer towards a calm and patient disposition.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
March receives the soothing and serene aquamarine as its birthstone.
Legend and tradition of aquamarine
The name ‘aquamarine’ itself stems from the Latin words ‘aqua marina’, translating to ‘sea water’, evident in its cool, inviting blue color reminiscent of the ocean. Sailor tales of yore talk about aquamarine as a talisman believed to ensure safe and prosperous sea journeys.
Distinct features and qualities of aquamarine
Aquamarine is characterized by its varying shades of blue, from the light blue of the sky to the deep blue of the sea. This gemstone is a member of the beryl family – the same family as the emerald. Their stunning clarity and durability make them ideal for a variety of jewelry.
Effects of aquamarine on health and behavior
Aquamarines are known to soothe and calm the wearer, reducing stress and enhancing clear communication. They are believed to inspire honesty, trust, and tranquility. Physically, they are said to aid in the healing of ailments that affect the throat and the liver.
April Birthstone: Diamond
The precious diamond is the birthstone for April, probably one of the few exceptions to the rule.
Ancient myths surrounding diamond
Historically, diamonds have been coveted objects of desire. Ancient Romans and Greeks believed diamonds were tears cried by the gods or splinters from falling stars, and they were revered for their strength and brilliance.
Texture, clarity and structure of diamond
Diamonds are renowned for their incredible durability and unmatched shine. They are the hardest known mineral on earth and can only be scratched by another diamond. This endurance is paired with a crystalline structure that refracts light, giving diamonds their famous sparkle.
The contribution diamond brings to individual traits
Diamond is a symbol of purity, eternal love, and invincibility. It is also associated with clarity of mind and increased balance in the wearer’s energies, which helps in wedging off fears and encouraging bravery and perseverance.
May Birthstone: Emerald
The lush and vibrant emerald represents the month of May.
Cultural relevance of emerald
Emeralds have been cherished for their remarkable green color for thousands of years. They were a particular favorite of Cleopatra and were used by early Incas. Many cultures around the world have held the emerald in high regard for its supposed mystical powers and healing qualities.
Emerald’s specific traits and properties
Emerald is identified by its vivid green color, made all the more striking by its slight bluish tint. The finest emeralds are highly transparent. Their color is so distinct and captivating that it has its own shade: “emerald green.”
The connection between emerald and personal demeanor
Emeralds are believed to signify rebirth, wisdom, and love. Wearing the birthstone associated with May is thought to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Emerald is also believed to instigate fertility, rebirth, and ease of childbirth.
June Birthstone: Pearl, Alexandrite
Born in the middle of the year? You’re in luck because June has the unique distinction of having three birthstones associated with it, including Pearl, Alexandrite.
The double stones of June, their history and significance
Pearls are the only gems derived from living creatures in the entire birthstone list. They have been cherished for their natural beauty and luminescence for thousands of years. On the other hand, Alexandrite was a more recent discovery, being found in 19th-century Russia. It was named after the young Alexander II, future Czar of the Russian Empire.
Physical elements of pearl and alexandrite
Pearls, unlike other gemstones, require no cutting or polishing to maximize their lustrous beauty. They come in a myriad of colors including white, off-white, and black. Alexandrite, on the other hand, has a unique characteristic known as color change, appearing green in daylight and reddish under incandescent light.
Pearl and Alexandrite influence on persona
Pearl symbolizes purity and innocence, often worn by brides on their wedding day. Alexandrite, with its color-changing ability, is perceived to mirror a person’s mood- encouraging joy and luck when your spirit is high and promoting intense inner growth and self-reflection when your spirit wanes.
July Birthstone: Ruby
July’s birthstone is the fiery and captivating ruby.
Historical background of ruby
Rubies have been treasured for thousands of years. Considered one of the most precious gemstones on Earth, they were worn as talismans or amulets to ward off evil due to their beautiful red color, which carried connotations of blood and fire.
Unique characteristics of ruby
The ruby is known for its deep, bright red color, durability, and rarity. It gets its red color from traces of the mineral chromium. In terms of hardness, only diamonds surpass rubies, making them an excellent choice for jewelry.
Effects of ruby on personality
Ruby is a symbol of passion, protection, and prosperity. It is said to bring the wearer peace of mind and freedom from distressing thoughts. Additionally, ruby can inspire confidence and increase courage, motivating the wearer to reach their full potential.
August Birthstone: Peridot
The fresh, zesty green peridot is the birthstone for those born in August.
Peridot in history
Peridot has notable historical significance and is one of the oldest known gemstones. Egyptian priests believed that it harnessed the power of nature, and Ancient Egyptians knew it as the “gem of the sun”.
Physical attributes of peridot
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that exist in only one color: a striking olive green. The intensity of the green depends on how much iron is present in the stone’s structure. It’s a very beautiful and unique stone, making it perfect for those who like to stand out.
Correlation between peridot and self-perception
People often associate peridot with light, making it a fitting August birthstone. It is thought to bring the wearer power, influence, and a wonderful year. As a gem of positivity, peridot is said to help dispel negativity, increase confidence, and instigate personal growth.
December Birthstone: Turquoise, Zircon
Lucky people born in the last month of the year can cherish themselves with not one but two intriguing birthstones: turquoise and zircon.
Importance of turquoise and zircon in history
Both turquoise and zircon hold high esteem in gemstone history. Turquoise was used by ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for protection and good luck. Zircon, on the other hand, is one of the oldest minerals on earth, dating back over 4.4 billion years.
Identifying traits of turquoise and zircon
Turquoise is noted for its enchanting shades of blue and green and holds a waxy luster. Zircon comes in a wide array of colors but is most famous for its striking blue varieties. Both these gemstones are moderately to relatively durable, making them suitable for different types of jewelry.
Correlation between turquoise and zircon and human nature
Turquoise is believed to grant protection, healing, courage, friendship, and luck. It is also said to balance out rampant emotions and instill inner calm in the wearer. Zircon, in contrast, is said to aid in promoting sleep, prosperity, honor, and wisdom. It is also believed to drive away evil spirits and nightmares.
Whether you subscribe to the beliefs attached to these semi precious gems or not, they undeniably bring color and sparkle to our lives. From deep, sultry garnets to soothing aquamarines, and from warm rubies to cooling turquoises, birthstones make our journeys around the sun that much more beautiful.
