Art, obsession, and identity
The origin of birthstones can be traced back to the 5th century, when Christian scholars first established a link between specific stones and the months of the year. They based this on the 12 stones found in the biblical Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred breastplate worn by the High Priest of the Israelites, according to the Book of Exodus.
Scholars theorized that each stone was aligned with a month of the year and a sign of the zodiac and that they received a different benefit from each gem if they wore it during that period of time.
Initially, believers wore a different stone each month, according to its specific power. This ritual developed over time and eventually it became customary to wear the stone corresponding to the month of birth throughout the year. This is how the gemstones became known as birthstones.
Disagreement over which stones were assigned to which months continued for centuries. This issue was resolved in 1912 when the mail order company Sears published an 'official' chart. This became the most widely accepted list and has remained more or less the same ever since, with only a few minor adjustments.
Find out which gemstone corresponds to your birth month and learn the meaning of your birthstone by clicking through.
Garnet is a dark red stone that is associated with protection. The name comes from the Latin word for 'seed-like,' as it resembles pomegranate seeds in color and appearance. This symbolic connection goes back to ancient times. Travelers carried garnets with them on their journeys to protect themselves from evil spirits and bad luck, and the Aztecs took them into battle.
Garnets are also linked to vitality and passion in relationships. Those born in January form strong bonds with those around them and express their love openly and without fear.
The amethyst has a fascinating history in Greek mythology. Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry, felt insulted by mortals after his hospitality was rejected, and decided to punish the next human he met. Coincidentally, this person was a young woman named Amethystos, which translates to 'not drunk' When Dionysus set out to harm her, he changed his mind and decided to turn her into stone instead of destroying her completely.
Amethystos was transformed into a white stone statue. Dionysus was moved by her innocence and paid tribute to her by pouring his cup of wine over the statue instead of drinking it. This gave it a deep purple color. The amethyst, named after Amethystos, became associated with this rare moment of sober thoughtfulness for the hedonistic Dionysus and is now the gemstone of wisdom.
An amethyst does not give those born in February exceptional resistance to alcohol, but it does associate them with qualities such as mental clarity, spirituality, and healing.
The aquamarine stone reflects the different shades of blue of the seas and the sky. It has been associated with these natural elements for generations and was often carried by seafarers on their voyages. It was said to have a number of benefits, from good sleep to harmony in marriage. Ultimately, aquamarine is most often associated with serenity.
It is said that this gemstone has calming properties, making it a perfect gift for newlyweds, especially because of its association with happiness in love. Today it also symbolizes health, honesty, loyalty, hope and youth.
April is the month of the diamond, the most popular and sought-after stone in the world. Diamonds were formed about 3.3 billion years ago more than 100 miles (160 km) below the Earth’s surface. It is also known for being incredibly strong. This explains why it is so valuable and so popular in jewelry, but what does it mean?
The diamond symbolizes love, which is why it is the top choice for engagement rings. It is linked to purity, open-heartedness, and unity, traits shared by those born in April.
The emerald is associated with the month of May. These deep green stones were mined in Egypt more than 2,000 years ago and they were also in Cleopatra's jewelry box. Its vibrant, earthy color is reminiscent of fields and forests, of spring and thus symbolizes rejuvenation and hope.
Emeralds are associated with youth and rebirth. They are also connected with wisdom and were believed to enhance intelligence and perhaps even predict the future when worn.
This is the only birthstone that grows inside a living being. It is found in saltwater oysters or freshwater clams. These cherished gems are treasured for their smooth texture and color, and symbolize purity, honesty and wisdom.
Pearls have long been connected to divinity, as in certain cultures they were seen as tears sent from heaven. In ancient Chinese folklore, dragons carried pearls, and were a token of power and wisdom. While pearls have become a status symbol associated with wealth, for those born in June they are seen as a symbol of wisdom and inner strength.
Throughout history, the ruby has captivated people with its mesmerizing crimson color. It evokes vitality and is associated with strength and health.
For centuries, rubies have been used to adorn precious goblets adding meaning and strength to toasts for good health. Red has also long been associated with strong emotions and passion. For this reason, rubies are also associated with love. Those born in July are said to be full of energy, life, and love.
The peridot, a distinctly olive-green gemstone, is associated with beauty. This could be true of any of the birthstones, but the peridot stands out for its delicate, beautiful color. These gemstones are also special because they shine just as brightly in natural light as they do in artificial light.
This made them particularly valuable in ancient Egypt, where, according to historical records, they were mined. They were prized for their great beauty, which lasted long into the night by fire and candlelight. It is believed that the peridot protects its wearer during the night.
The sapphire's deep blue color is linked to honesty, a quality reflected in those born in September. This gem is believed to have the power to protect against evil intentions and physical harm.
For centuries, religious leaders have adorned themselves with blue sapphires, which are highly valued for their spiritual significance. These stones represent faith, wisdom, trust, and loyalty - qualities that hold immense value on our spiritual and personal journey.
The opal is a one-of-a-kind gem that can take on many different colors. Its appearance is also associated with light and magic, but its main benefit is healing, especially for the eyes. In the past, some even believed that opal had the power to make its wearer invisible.
Opals are considered lucky charms because they refract light and can display a brilliant spectrum of colors at once. They are particularly auspicious for anyone born in October.
This vibrant yellow gemstone symbolizes happiness. Its bright golden color resembles sunlight and amplifies feelings of joy and healing. Citrine is one of the rarest types of quartz found in nature and has only been discovered in very few countries.
It is believed that citrine can alleviate both mental and physical problems by reducing stress and soothing stomach aches. November babies may well possess the properties of citrine and radiate the kind of joy that lights up a room.
The last stone on the list is turquoise, the name of which is inspired by a color and not the other way around. It is commonly associated with Turkey because it was the Turks who brought this precious stone to Europe. In French, the word 'turquoise' actually means 'Turkish.'
In Turkish culture, it was believed that the gift of turquoise gave the recipient the ability to make friends effortlessly. Even today, turquoise is often associated with friendship.
Sources: (Gemological Institute of America) (International Gem Society) (Uncommon Goods) (Cape Town Diamond Museum)
A birthstone is a gemstone that is associated with a particular period of the year. This means that it is closely linked to the month in which you were born. Similar to your zodiac sign, these gemstones reflect your personality traits and symbolize your inner self.
Birthstones are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry. Some even believe that wearing your birthstone can increase your well-being, bring good luck, and guide you through life's challenges.
Click through this gallery to uncover the secrets that your personal birthstone reveals about you and choose your ideal lucky charm.
Find out what your birthstone means
These beautiful gems can expose aspects of our personalities
LIFESTYLE Gems
A birthstone is a gemstone that is associated with a particular period of the year. This means that it is closely linked to the month in which you were born. Similar to your zodiac sign, these gemstones reflect your personality traits and symbolize your inner self.
Birthstones are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry. Some even believe that wearing your birthstone can increase your well-being, bring good luck, and guide you through life's challenges.
Click through this gallery to uncover the secrets that your personal birthstone reveals about you and choose your ideal lucky charm.