Why Do We Have Birthstones and What Do They Mean?
Most of us are aware of our birthstone, but we don’t know why we have birthstones or their meanings. Join us as we take a look at the significance of these gemstones and discover their origins…
The Origin of the Birthstone
Some experts theorised that the gemstone has biblical origins; Aaron’s priestly breastplate featured twelve gemstones to represent the tribes of Israel. Later, correlations were formed with zodiac signs and now the months of the year.
The Meaning of Birthstones
Each stone carries a different meaning and qualities; some even believe they are reflected in the people born of that month, but these meanings can vary from culture to culture.
Garnet – January
Garnets were believed to protect their wearer from nightmares, and travellers used to carry garnets with them to keep them safe on their journey.
Amethyst – February
Some believe that amethysts provide the wearer courage and it has the ability to strengthen relationships. For the ancient Greeks, amethyst protected against intoxication, the name of the stone even derives from the word ‘amethystos’ meaning ‘sober’. Being sober would give a clear head and quick-wittedness.
Aquamarine – March
Some believe aquamarine means seawater, hence the name and the colour reflects that of the sky and water. For that reason, some people think aquamarine embodies eternal youth.
Emerald – May
Emeralds were Cleopatra’s favourite gemstones as she was regularly adorned with them during her time as monarch. Its meaning has been connected to love, rebirth, and fertility. Actually, mummies were even buried with a carved emerald on their necks as a sign of eternal youth. In the present, the emerald means wisdom, growth and patience.
Peridot – August
During ancient times, some thought that the peridot was a gift from Mother Nature as a celebration of the new world. It’s supposed to contain magical and healing properties that ward off nightmares.
Opal & tourmaline – October
The opal is a representation of faithfulness and confidence. The name derives from the Latin word opalus which means precious jewel. Some believe that necklaces containing opals will repel evil and protect eyesight. The opal is similar to the tourmaline as they have many colours; opals can encompass many colours in one stone and each stone is unique, while tourmaline stones exist in a rainbow of colours.
Topaz & Citrine – November
The topaz is a symbol of love and affection, providing strength and intelligence. Egyptians and Romans thought the stone came from the sun god, giving it the ability to protect and heal.
The citrine was also seen as a gift from the sun. The etymology of citrine is French for ‘lemon’. Today the citrine is known for bringing success and prosperity.
Turquoise & Tanzanite – December
Turquoise is seen as a love charm and attributed to good fortune and success. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is truly one of a kind and exclusively sourced from the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Birthstones have a long and varied history and their meanings all have great, positive attributes. If you are thinking of giving birthstone jewellery as a gift, feel free to visit us or take a look at our current stock.