The origin of birthstones traces back to several centuries ago. They used to relate to the 12 precious stones that were in the breastplate belonging to the High Priest of the Israelites. Now, birthstones have emerged to possess different meanings and are believed to bring good luck, health, and protection. Each birthstone is said to have a unique meaning and some sort of supernatural power. Here are the different meanings associated with each birthstone.
January: Garnet
The birthstone for the month of January is the Garnet, a dark red stone that looks like a pomegranate seed. This resemblance gave it its name, coming from the Latin term that means “seed.” In ancient times, warriors would carry garnets with them to battle, because they believed that it would keep them safe during travel.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst is a stone that has a deep violet color and crystal structure. Its name comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” which means “sober.” The stone has been associated with avoiding intoxication and later emerged to symbolize wisdom and courage.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarines have always been associated with the seas and skies, due to its crystal structure and blue color. They symbolize peace and calmness.
April: Diamond
Diamonds are the most common gems in the world but are the hardest minerals ever to exist, which is why diamonds are commonly associated with strength and courage.
May: Emerald
The name “emerald” came from the Latin word “esmeralda,” which means green gem. Its name is owing to its dark green color, similar to that of nature. Because of this, the stone has been associated with fertility, rebirth, and hope.
June: Pearl
The pearl has always been a symbol of purity and love. In fact, this symbolism traces back to the olden times when the ancient Greeks believed that pearls were hardened tears of joy of the goddess of love, Aphrodite.
July: Ruby
The birthstone for the month of July is the ruby. It used to be hailed the “King of Gems,” owing to its strong red color. The redness of the stone played a part in associating it with strong emotions like love, passion, and vitality.
August: Peridot
Peridots are olive-green stones that retain their beautiful color under either natural or artificial light. Its ability to give off that same green glow regardless of the circumstances has led to the stone’s association with inner and outer beauty.
September: Sapphire
Unlike most gems, the dark blue color of the sapphire is pretty much the same among different specimens. This true blue color of the stone is associated with honesty and purity. But in ancient times, they also believed that sapphires would guard them against evil.
October: Opal
Opals are unique stones because of their ability to diffract light and show the different colors of the rainbow simultaneously. It is commonly associated with healing, faithfulness, and confidence.
November: Topaz
The topaz stone is associated with love and affection. It is also believed that those who wear topaz in jewelry will experience an increase in intellect and strength.
December: Turquoise
To make turquoise, copper and aluminum compounds need to work together to form a new mineral. This relationship can be attributed to friendships, which is why the stone has been considered as a symbol of friendship and love.
With all the symbolism and beliefs associated with birthstones, there’s no wonder why a lot of people like wearing their respective stones as jewelry. If you want to make an accessory that reflects your birthstone, there are refinery companies like Sam Precious Metals that specialize in refining precious gems and stones.