Garnet is the birthstone for the month of January. North American Indians used red garnets as bullets, believing they would seek blood and inflict a deadlier wound. Christians believed garnet symbolized Christ’s sacrifice; Islamics believed it illuminated the fourth heaven. Garnets were thought to stop bleeding, cure inflammatory diseases, and smooth discord.
Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February. It is derived from a Greek word meaning “not to intoxicate”, which led to the belief that amethyst in a cup would prevent drunkenness. Amethyst was thought to protect soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against evil thoughts, and quicken one’s intelligence. It is considered to be a surface cure for headaches and toothaches; and used to increase spirituality.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March. The name is derived from a Latin word meaning “sea water” and was known to protect ocean voyages and guard against sea monsters. It was also believed that aquamarine soaked in water would treat eye troubles, respiratory diseases, and hiccups. It is said that this gemstone is used to help ease depression and grief; and also used to re-awaken love in long marriages. It also signifies the making of new friends.
Diamond is the birthstone representing the month of April. It is derived from the Greek word adamas, meaning “unconquerable”, reflecting recognition of diamonds superior hardness. Many cultures believe diamonds have been associated with the moon and the sun to resemble its colorlessness, brilliance, hardness, and value. The power of a diamond is diminished once it is bought, but preserved and enhanced when given as a gift. They are symbols of love purity, and faith to some, and to others they symbolize ideas such as power, success, and security. Romance is the image a diamond portrays when reflected in lover’s eyes.
Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May. Emeralds were once prescribed for eye diseases because the green color was believed to be soothing to the eyes. It was also once recommended as amulets to ward off epilepsy in children. Emeralds were known to strengthen the owner’s memory, quicken intelligence, and assist in predicting the future. It is known to be a symbol of rebirth and romance.
Alexandrite is the birthstone for the month of June. It was discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1830 on the 18th birthday of Czar Alexander II, the day he became of ruling age, hence the stone was named after him. This gemstone was looked upon as a good omen in Russia since the green and red hues represented the Russian Military. Alexandrite is thought to assist one in centering the self, reinforcing self-esteem, and to broaden ones ability to experience joy.
Ruby is the birthstone for July. It is known as the stone of love and reconciling lover’s quarrels. It was once believed that if worn in a ring on the left hand or in a brooch on the left side, it would give peace among enemies. This stone was once thought to ward off misfortune and ill health. Ruby is given as a symbol of success, devotion, integrity, health, and passion.
Peridot is the birthstone for August. It was known to be dull by day, but “glow like a coal” at night. This “glow” let prospectors spot deposits in the dark and mark them for digging the next day. Peridot was often thought to help dreams become a reality, and was often given as a symbol of fame, dignity, and protection.
Blue Sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September. The ancients believed sapphires influenced spirits, guarded against unchastity, protected them from capture and made peace between enemies. They were also thought to clear the mind and skin, cure fevers, colds, eye diseases, and ulcers. Sapphire is a longtime symbol and guardian of purity, and it represents truth, sincerity, and consistency.
Opal is the birthstone for the month of October. In ancient times opal was recognized as a symbol of faithfulness and confidence. The brilliantly colored opal was said to have magic powers because of its play of many colors. It was known to strengthen eyesight, protect against contagious diseases, ease sadness, and turn pale in the presence of poison. Opal symbolizes magic, love, hope, happiness, and truth.
Citrine is the birthstone for the month of November. The name citrine is derived from the French word citron, meaning “lemon” and the color is associated with light-heartedness and cheerfulness. It is also believed that it helps one connect with the spirit. Citrine is often given as a symbol of hope youth, and fidelity.
Blue Topaz is the birthstone for the month of December. The name topaz comes from Topazios; an island in the Red Sea. In 15th century Rome, topaz was used to detect poisons, calm anger, and break spells. Christians believed topaz stood for uprightness; and to Hindus, topaz worn above the heart, prevented thirst and assured long life, beauty, and intelligence. The Greeks felt topaz gave them strength and used it as an amulet against harm.
