What is my birthstone and why do we have them?

Have you ever wondered how specific gemstones became associated with certain months of the year? It is believed that birthstones trace back as far as the Bible, when Moses gave directions for making a special breastplate for Aaron, which was said to contain twelve precious gemstones.

Back then the twelve stones represented the twelve tribes ofIsrael. Later, however, the stones were linked to the twelve signs of the Zodiac. Eventually, they became as we know them today; associated with the twelve months of the calendar year.

Throughout history, many people have believed a range of myths and legends that associate with birthstones. Most popularly, many cultures believe birthstones hold healing powers or bring good luck. Not all countries or cultures agree on which stones correlate for which months, though today most jewellers agree on a basic set of birthstones for each month.

January’s birthstone is the garnet stone. Many believe garnets provide safety to people when they are travelling. The birthstone of February is the amethyst, which is thought to make one courageous and brave. Those who have a birthday in March have the birthstone of an aquamarine, which has often been associated with healing powers.

Those with a birthday in April are lucky to have the diamond as their birthstone. Diamonds, of course, are an everlasting symbol of love and eternity. Like the diamond, emeralds are also associated with love, and are the birthstone for May. Pearls are also a very popular and are often found on extravagant pieces of jewellery. These stunning stones are a symbol of purity for June’s birthstone.

The birthstone for those born in July is the ruby, which is said to have the ability to ward off evil. August’s birthstone is the green peridot, which symbolises strength. It is often widely known as the ‘evening emerald’ due to its striking colour. Like the ruby, the sapphire, which is September’s birthstone, is also said to guard the wearer against evil, especially in terms of poisoning.

October’s birthstone is the stunning opal. The opal stone represents faithfulness and confidence to those who wear it. The third birthstone that symbolises love is November’s birthstone, the topaz, which is also often associated with affection. Finally, December’s birthstone is the bright blue turquoise, which lucky for babies born in the twelfth month, symbolises just that, good fortune!

We stock a range of gorgeous jewellery that features some stunning birthstones throughout. Take a look at this beautiful white gold ruby and diamond earrings or this 18ct gold turquoise and diamond bracelet. For more information on our birthstone jewellery or if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with the Cuttings team by visiting our contact page.