Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Birthstone Jewelry from Dazzling Garnet to Sky-Blue Topaz

The conception of birthstones can be traced back to the first century. It was believed that gemstones possessed virtues or cures. By assigning a specific gemstone to each month of the year, the power of that stone was released to those born in that month. In the early 1900s, the American National Association of Jewelers instituted a list of 12 gems that represented each month of the year:

January

Available in a variety of colors, garnet's most popular color is vivid red. Ancient Egyptians believed garnet possessed powers to protect travelers and sustain good health. Known as the "carbuncle stone" during the Middle Ages, garnet is the official birthstone for January, as well as the recommended gem for a 2nd wedding anniversary.

February

A long-held favorite of kings and queens, the royal purple hues of amethyst are featured in the British Crown Jewels. From Egyptian rulers of old to Catherine the Great, the amethyst, which symbolizes piety, has long been believed to hold religious connections. The birthstone for February, the amethyst also represents the 6th wedding anniversary.

March

Inspired by the colors of the water (aqua) and the sea (mare), aquamarine ranges in colors from light pale blue to blue-green to deep blue. Its association with water has made it a good luck charm for sailors. Aquamarine is said to attract love and affection, as well as grant foresight. Serving as the birthstone for March, aquamarine is also a symbol for those celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary.

April

The most valued of gemstones, the history of the diamond can be traced back 2,500 years ago to India. Many believed diamonds to be magical, as they could not be burned by fire or cut by any known tool. It was first used as an engagement ring in 1477 by Archduke Maximilian of Austria, which continues today. The accepted birthstone for April, the diamond is also recommended for couples celebrating their 10th and 60th anniversaries.

May

Symbolizing rebirth and the arrival of spring, the emerald is the ideal birthstone for May. Emeralds have also been used as charms to ward off evil spirits, cure infertility, and bring about wealth. In addition to the May birthstone, emeralds are the recommended gem for couples celebrating their 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries.

June

Neither a rock nor a mineral, the pearl is a truly unique gemstone. Created by living mollusks, pearls are produced in a variety of lustrous colors, including white, cream, pink, purple, green, gray, and black. Representing chastity and purity, pearls are presented in many cultures as wedding gifts to ensure a blissful union. As the birthstone for June, the pearl is also recognized as the gift for couples celebrating 3rd and 30th wedding anniversaries.

July

Considered one of the most precious stones throughout history, the ruby is referenced in ancient biblical and Sanskrit writings. A symbol of courage, rubies were believed to make warriors invincible to their enemies. Imparting bravery and passion as a birthstone, the ruby is also recommended as the gem for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

August

Mined more than 3,500 years ago, peridot is a bright-green gemstone believed to possess powers of success, peace and good luck. Called the "gem of the sun" by ancient Egyptians, peridot was believed to give off its own light. The stone has also been used to attract love and soothe nerves. As the accepted birthstone of August, perdiot is also gifted by couples celebrating their 16th wedding anniversary.

September

Sapphire, the ultimate blue stone, symbolizes truth, faithfulness and remembrance. Some believe God printed the Ten Commandments on tablets of sapphire, making it the most sacred of all stones. It has been the choice of many kings, high priests, and other royalty throughout the ages. The sapphire is also the choice gemstone for those born in September, as well as couples celebrating their 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.

October

The opal holds many myths and legends, including the belief that the opal was first formed from the tears of joy shed by Zeus after defeating the Titans. In the Middle East, opals were thought to fall from flashes of lightning, creating the stone's fiery iridescence. Symbolizing hope and purity, the opal is October's birthstone, as well as the gem used to commemorate a 14th wedding anniversary.

November

Associated with optimism and joy, the warm, the amber-colored citrine stone rarely occurs in nature. Its hues are created by a heating process, creating colors ranging from bright yellow to gold, brown, or red. As the November birthstone, citrine is believed to create calm and mental balance. It also represents the gem for 13 years of marriage.

December

To the Greeks and Romans, topaz possessed the powers to increase strength and make the wearer invisible. Today's wearers believe topaz can protect against negative emotions and increase patience and fidelity. Topaz was displayed in ancient homes to radiate good health to families. As the December birthstone, topaz is also used to mark a 4th wedding anniversary.



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