The wearing of birthstones is thought to bring good luck and good health.
Astrologers long ago attributed supernatural powers to certain gemstones. A birthstone is a gemstone that symbolises a month of birth.
January: The garnet – thought to keep the wearer safe during travel.
February: The amethyst is said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage. At one time, only royalty could wear the gem. Ancient Greeks thought that the amethyst guarded against intoxication. The word ‘amethyst’ originates from the Greek word ‘amethysts’ meaning ‘sober’.
March: The aquamarine was thought to cure heart, liver, and stomach diseases – all one had to do was drink the water in which the gem had been soaking. Early sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, etched with the likeness of the sea god Neptune, protected them against ocean dangers.
April: A diamond – in addition to being a symbol of everlasting love, was once thought to bring courage. In Sanskrit, the diamond is called ‘vajra’ which also means lightning; in Hindu mythology, vajra was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods.
May: The emerald was one of Cleopatra’s favourite gems. It has long been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience.
June: The pearl has long been a symbol of purity. The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, the goddess of love.
July: The ruby is regarded by ancient Hindus as the ‘king of gems’. It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. Today the ruby’s deep-red colour signifies love and passion.
August: A peridot symbolises strength. It is sometimes called the evening emerald for its light green colour. It was once believed that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele. When set in gold this gem was said to protect the wearer from nightmares.
September: The sapphire once thought to guard against evil and poisoning. It was believed that a venomous snake would die if placed in a vessel made of sapphire. Traditionally a favourite stone of priests and kings, the sapphire symbolises purity and wisdom.
October: The opal symbolises faithfulness and confidence. The word comes from the Latin opalus, meaning ‘precious jewel.’ Necklaces with opals set in them were worn to repel evil and to protect eyesight.
November: A topaz, symbolising love and affection. It is believed to give the wearer increased strength and intellect.
December: The turquoise is regarded as a love charm. It is also a symbol of good fortune and success, and it is believed to relax the mind and to protect its wearer from harm. Turquoise rings, in particular, are thought to keep away evil spirits.
