Birthstones are captivating gemstones linked to each of the twelve calendar months, with your individual birthstone corresponding to your birth month. These gemstones can bear different significations to various people, with some feeling a deep connection to their birthstone. For instance, if you were born in March, you might appreciate the serenity aquamarine signifies, or maybe it reminds you of someone dear to you.
Assigning personal sentiment to your birthstone can deepen your connection to it, considering the belief that various gemstones possess distinct meanings and powers. Ancient astrologers associated these gemstones with healing attributes and protection from evil for those born within their affiliated months, hence their designation as birthstones.
The lore of Garnet in January proposes it as a guard against nightmares and a guide in darkness. Its intense red hue often embodies faith, love, and bravery, potentially boosting the wearer’s self-esteem and self-worth, and symbolizing friendship, trust, and commitment.
Synonymous with royalty, passion, and hope, the February stone, Amethyst, reportedly safeguards against anger and violence resulting from intense passion. It is said to surmount difficulties and bolster love in relationships, its radiant purple color commonly regarded as a peace, purification, and soothing energy symbol.
In ancient times, Aquamarine in March was thought to shield seafarers and to encourage them to remember their loved ones when far away at sea. This gemstone is associated with stimulating creativity, hope, self-expression, and bravery. Its greenish-blue color signifies tranquility, serenity, clarity, and harmony.
Diamonds in April have been acknowledged as love and commitment symbols since ancient Greece. These gems represent eternal love, bravery, and well-being, and have their place among leaders and influential figures, symbolizing strength and good health.
The beautiful green gems of May, Emeralds, are said to promote health, faithfulness, fertility, and wealth. They are also synonymous with prosperity, abundance, and growth in all aspects of life.
June, with Pearl and Alexandrite, offers wisdom through experience according to mythology and history. Pearls are believed to provide protection, attract good fortune and wealth, represent purity and modesty, and assist in focusing on the positive and navigating through hard times. Alternatively, Alexandrite displays unique color-changing qualities, shifting from a blueish-green hue in the daylight to a deep reddish-purple tone at night.
Rubies in July signify strength and bravery, perhaps protecting the wearer from misfortune to live peacefully with others. They inspire the clearance of negative energies, acting as a guiding gemstone.
August’s Peridot is traditionally believed to bring courage, wealth, wisdom, and purity, relieving stress, calming anger, and shielding from negativity and bad energy. Regarded as the gemstone of renewal and compassion, its light green hue is attractive.
With September comes Sapphire, believed to be a truth and protection symbol and to bring success to those who wear it. Sapphires stand for purity, wisdom, faith, loyalty, and serenity. Their rich blue color is often linked with royalty and prosperity, but they come in all rainbow colors excluding red, offering endless options.
For October, the mythical belief is that opals can ease sadness and envy. Alternatively, Tourmaline is associated with healing, restorative qualities, hope, innocence, and creativity.
Yellow Topaz in November, along with its alternative birthstone, Citrine, is believed to boost success, prosperity, intellect, and remove negativity. Yellow topaz also encourages health and wellness in body and mind, safeguarding the wearer from negative influences.
December stones, Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, and Turquoise, all reportedly hold healing properties. Zircon offers the wearer honor, wisdom, and riches, while Turquoise brings happiness and good fortune, and Blue Topaz promotes good health.
If you own birthstone jewelry and need an appraisal for insurance or estate purposes, contact us today! Our independent appraiser, Elliot Grunwald, is available by appointment Tuesday-Saturday 11am-4pm. And if you’re shopping for a birthstone gift, visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Ave. to find exquisite birthstone jewelry at a great price.
