Birthstones: Their Origin And Qualities
Author: Sebastian Marders
Source: articlerich.com
There are 12 birthstones representing each of the months in a year. Their origin can probably be attributed back to the biblical times, during the time of Moses, where twelve colors comprised the Breast Plate of the High Priest, which represents Israel’s twelve tribes.
After several centuries, the number “12″ took on symbolic meaning such as the twelve apostles, the twelve months of the year, the twelve signs of the zodiac, the twelve foundations of the Holy City and many others.
The assignment of the gemstones to each calendar year can be traced to the Gregorian birthstone poem where each month has its own gem:
January – Garnet
February – Amethyst
March – Aquamarine
April – Diamond
May – Emerald
June – Pearl
July – Ruby
August – Peridot
September – Sapphire
October – Opal
November – Topaz
December – Tanzanite
Birthstone Jewelry makes for a perfect birthday gift. Here are some interesting facts about some of the birthstones:
1. Garnet – (January) This birthstone is also designated to be given on the second and sixth anniversaries. Deep red in color, this gemstone is made of neosilicates. It was the fourth stone in the High Priest’s Breast Plate during Moses’ time. It is known as an amulet for travelers to guard them against harm while on a journey.
2. Ruby – (July) This birthstone was known for its curative powers during the Middle Ages. Blood-red in color, this gem is made up of stable aluminum oxide. It is also known as the “rarest gem” or the “king of all gems” by Jewelers in America. It is believed to be true that owners of rubies are to have good fortune, peace and good health.
3. Aquamarine – (March) The symbol of everlasting youth and happiness, the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans have regarded this gemstone as one that is of high value. It has the color of the blue sea, or blue green, having the composition of beryl, the same element present in emeralds. It is said to be an amulet for restoring lost love, increasing patience and healing laziness.
4. Amethyst – (February) According to legends, Amethyst is a beautiful young maiden turned by Goddess Diana into a pillar of quartz to protect her from Bacchus’ wrath. Bacchus is known to be the “God of Wine.” After repenting, Bacchus poured red wine into Amethyst, which gave this valuable quartz its purple color. It is known to be an amulet to prevent drunkenness and remain sober while drinking liquor. It is also known to make the owner smart and successful in business.
5. Peridot – (August) This gemstone is known for its utmost simplicity. It does not have any color variation except olive green. It is used as a talisman to ward off bad spirits and other night creatures, enhances the mood of the owner and gives them the power to have convincing speech.
6. Topaz – (November) Known as a symbol of friendship. When used as an amulet, it is believed to relieve the owner from sadness and help them with intellect and courage. It has color variations and the most common is the yellow one. Blue topaz is the birthstone for December.
Sebastian Marders loves to write, and enjoys sharing the website that inspires each piece with his readers. If you are interested in cheap organic body jewelry, including bone plugs, and fake belly button rings then please visit.