You’re probably familiar with the concept of birthstones, based on our month of birth, which are often used in jewelries and gifts. In this engaging article, “What Is The Birthstones Of All 12 Months?”, the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of each month’s birthstone are uniquely explained. Covering everything from glimmering garnets of January to the delightful turquoise of December, we demystify the allure behind these cherished gems. Explore this captivating journey through birthstones that will not only educate you but also can add a personal touch to your or your loved ones’ jewelry collection.
January Birthstone: Garnet
History of Garnet
The garnet, a precious stone with a history that dates back to the Bronze Age, is known for its rich and vibrant red color. Ancient civilizations from the Egyptians to the Romans held the garnet in high esteem, often using it as a talisman for protection.
Symbolism and Meaning
The garnet symbolizes deep, enduring friendship. It’s believed that if you gift a garnet to someone, the relationship will last a lifetime. The stone is also associated with passion, loyalty and devotion.
Variations and Colors
The garnet may be best known for its deep red hue, but did you know it also comes in a rainbow of other colors? From green to pink and everything in between, there’s a garnet for every taste. The rarest color is a blue garnet which changes color from blue-green in the daylight to purplish red in incandescent light.
Care and Maintenance
To keep your garnet looking stunning, clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Never expose it to harsh chemicals or extreme heat as this could cause it to lose its color and luster.
February Birthstone: Amethyst
History of Amethyst
Amethyst is a type of quartz that’s known for its beautiful purple shade. The stone was cherished by ancient civilizations, with artifacts and jewelry pieces dating back to 4,000 B.C. The Greeks and Romans particularly valued the amethyst, as they believed it could prevent drunkenness.
Symbolism and Meaning
In addition to its sobering properties, the amethyst is also known as the stone of calm, balance and peace. It’s believed to protect its wearer from negative energy, instead bringing about tranquility and clarity.
Variations and Colors
Though it’s most famous for its purple hue, the color of an amethyst can range from a light pinkish violet to a deep purple. The most valuable amethysts have a deep, rich color with slight red and blue flashes.
Care and Maintenance
To care for an amethyst, clean it in warm soapy water using a soft brush. Keep it away from direct sunlight as prolonged exposure can cause the stone to fade.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
History of Aquamarine
Aquamarine, which literally translates to ‘water of the sea’, has been a symbol of happiness and eternal youth since ancient times. It was believed that this gem, with its calming blue color, could ensure a safe journey across stormy seas.
Symbolism and Meaning
Aquamarine is known to inspire truth, trust and letting go. Due to its tranquil color and beautiful luster, it’s often associated with relaxation, protection and clarity.
Variations and Colors
Aquamarines come in a range of blue shades, from the palest pastel to a deep blue-green color. The depth of color usually depends on the size of the stone – the larger the stone, the deeper and more vibrant the color.
Care and Maintenance
This durable gemstone can be cleaned with warm soapy water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and dry it with a soft cloth before storing.
April Birthstone: Diamond
History of Diamond
Originating from the Greek word “adamas,” which means invincible or indestructible, diamonds are considered the hardest gemstone on earth. Their history dates back to around 3,000 years ago in India, where they were often used in religious icons.
Symbolism and Meaning
Traditionally, diamonds are a symbol of love, eternity and strength. The ultimate gift of a diamond is thought to represent commitment and an unbreakable bond.
Variations and Colors
Though they’re most famously clear, diamonds can come in almost every color of the rainbow – from blue, green and yellow to brown, grey and even black.
Care and Maintenance
Diamonds may be the hardest natural substance, but they can still get smudged and dirty. Clean them with warm soapy water and a toothbrush. However, don’t expose them to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
May Birthstone: Emerald
History of Emerald
The emerald, regarded as a symbol of rebirth and love, was mined in Egypt as early as 330 B.C. Today, most of the world’s emeralds are mined in Colombia and Zambia.
Symbolism and Meaning
Emeralds have always been associated with fertility, rebirth and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty.
Variations and Colors
Emeralds range in color from light to dark green. The most valuable and beautiful emeralds are a deep, rich green.
Care and Maintenance
Emeralds, although quite durable, need to be treated with care to prevent scratches. Clean them with warm soapy water, but avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
June Birthstone: Pearl
History of Pearls
Unlike most gemstones, pearls are produced by living creatures – oysters and other mollusks. They have been used in jewelry for millennia, prized for their natural beauty and rarity.
Symbolism and Meaning
Pearls have long been a symbol of purity. The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the tears of the gods and they are often associated with innocence and honesty.
Variations and Colors
Natural pearls come in a wide array of colors, including white, cream, black, gray, and rose. The most valuable pearls are perfectly round, but they can come in many other shapes known as baroque pearls.
Care and Maintenance
Pearls are delicate and require proper care. They should be cleaned with a soft cloth after wear and stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
July Birthstone: Ruby
History of Ruby
The ruby is one of the most prized gemstones throughout history, symbolizing power and protection when worn as a talisman. Emperors and kings were thought to have a bounty of wisdom and wealth when they were in possession of a ruby.
Symbolism and Meaning
The color of a ruby is like no other gemstone, embodying the color of love and passion in the deepest sense. The ruby is said to bring peace, prosperity, and protection to its wearer.
Variations and Colors
Though rubies are best known for their striking red color, they can also be found in shades from pink to a deep, dark red. The most sought-after color is a deep blood red with a hint of blue, often referred to as pigeon’s blood.
Care and Maintenance
Rubies are incredibly hard and durable, second only to diamonds. Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth or a soft toothbrush with mild soap.
August Birthstone: Peridot
History of Peridot
Peridot, a gem-quality transparent variety of olivine, was first discovered on the island of Zabargad, thousands of years ago. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun.”
Symbolism and Meaning
Peridot is believed to bring good luck, peace, and success. Its powers include health, protection, and sleep. It’s also said to boost creativity and happiness.
Variations and Colors
The gem comes in a stunning array of green shades, from light yellowish green to a dark olive.
Care and Maintenance
Peridot should be protected from scratches and sharp blows, as it’s slightly softer than other gemstones. Warm soapy water and a soft brush is the best way to keep it clean.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
History of Sapphire
Sapphire, significant to many world religions, is a symbol of wisdom and royalty. Known as a “celestial” stone, it was believed to have healing properties for the mind.
Symbolism and Meaning
Sapphire is associated with wisdom, dignity, loyalty, and nobility. It’s often used to decorate royal accessories and is considered one of the most precious gems.
Variations and Colors
While it’s famous for its rich blue color, sapphires can also be green, purple, yellow, or even clear.
Care and Maintenance
Sapphires are among the hardest gemstones, making them extremely durable. Warm, soapy water is the safest method for cleaning sapphires.
December Birthstone: Turquoise
History of Turquoise
Turquoise has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egyptian times when it was used extensively in jewelry.
Symbolism and Meaning
Turquoise is often associated with the sky and is thougth to bring prosperity, success, happiness, and good fortune. Native Americans saw it as a sacred stone, using it as a powerful healing tool and a symbol of protection.
Variations and Colors
Colors range from greenish blue to sky blue shades, and it often has narrow veins of color called matrix, usually brown or black.
Care and Maintenance
Turquoise is a fairly soft gemstone and should be protected from scratches and blows. Cleaning should be done with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
