Birthstones: Their meaning and history
Introduction
Gems and stones have fascinated mankind since the dawn of time. Often discovered by chance as they magically appeared on the surface of the Earth, our ancestors long before us used them as amulets and talismans to influence the course of our lives. They were attributed virtues and associated with specific times of the year. This is how, over time, certain precious stones came to be known as birthstones.
Wear personalized jewelry with its birthstone is very evocative. These stones are much more than just sparkling pebbles. They are unique symbols that tell a personal story. Each stone is associated with a birth month and has unique properties. It's as if nature has chosen a special stone for each person. Like it? So do we.
It is important to remember that meaning of stones is based on cultural and spiritual beliefs and interpretations, and these meanings can vary from person to person.
What is a birthstone?
A birthstone is a precious or semi-precious gemstone associated with a specific month of the year. Each month is represented by a stone that reflects the characteristics and attributes of people born during that period.
The birthstones, also known as stones of the monthThese are often used in the creation of personalized jewelry to make each piece unique and meaningful. That's why they make perfect symbolic gifts to celebrate birthdays and special occasions. Give a piece of jewelry with your birth color is a precious and lasting gift that underscores life's greatest miracle.
The beauty of birthstones also lies in the fascinating history of the gems themselves. For millennia, these precious or semi-precious stones have been revered for their mystical properties and healing powers. Each stone has its own legends and beliefs, adding a fascinating dimension to birthstones. By wearing a gem, we connect with this ancient history and become part of a timeless story.
Gemmology isn't just for scientists. In this article, our team of cheerful gemologists will guide you through the fascinating world of gemstones and their meanings. Whether you're looking for the dynamic energy of ruby, July's birthstone, or the serenity of aquamarine, March's birthstone, you'll find all the information you need about the stone in your birth month.
The origin of birthstones
The history of birthstones goes back to the high priest Aaron, brother of Moses and great protector of the Ark of the Covenant, who is said to have owned a breastplate of 12 precious stones representing the 12 tribes of the future Israel. All these colored stones were for the first time associated with a specific symbolism and number, 12. Flavius Josephus, a Roman historiographer from Jerusalem in the 1st century A.D., was the first to link the twelve stones of the breastplate to the signs of the zodiac. St. Jerome, one of the Latin Church Fathers, also mentions them in his 5th-century writings, describing their therapeutic benefits when worn at specific times.
Aaron's breastplate
Aaron's breastplate
Saint Jerome (Jerome of Stridon)
Aaron's breastplate
Flavius Josephus
Saint Jerome (Jerome of Stridon)
The tradition of birthstones dates back to ancient times, when certain peoples believed that the stones associated with their birth month had special powers and specific cosmic influences. Wearing the appropriate gem in one's birth month was thought to provide protection and reinforce the positive attributes associated with that gem. In addition to their symbolism gems of the month also have interesting mineralogical and historical significance. Traditional gems have been used in cultural, religious and ornamental contexts for thousands of years. Their importance is evident in royal crown jewels, the jewelry of ancient rulers and the talismans of ancient civilizations.
As you can see, theorigin of birthstones is nothing new. However, the idea of associating a birthstone with each month of the year as we know it today was popularized in the early 20e century by the National Jewelers Association of the United States. In 1912, it published a birthstone calendar in which each month was associated with a specific gem. This initiative sparked great interest in birthstone jewelry and helped to further popularize the tradition.
Birthstone guide by month
The Birthstone Guide by Month is a valuable compendium that explores the relationship between gems and birthmonths, combining the fields of gemology and lithotherapy. This guide offers a symbolic and energetic meaning to each month's gemstone, enabling you to choose a gem that's right for you. birth jewel unique and symbolic to celebrate the special occasions associated with birth. The gemmologywhich studies the characteristics and properties of gems, is at the heart of this guide. Each stone is described in detail, highlighting its physical characteristics, rarity and value. Visit lithotherapyexplores the energetic and spiritual aspects of stones, revealing their potential to influence emotions, health and well-being.
The birthstones by month is presented with its specific symbolism, based on ancient beliefs and cultural interpretations. The guide highlights the history of gems, their traditional meanings and their importance in different cultures throughout the ages. These interpretations on the gem symbolism allow readers to choose the birth jewel that best resonates with their personality and aspirations.
The significance of birthstones remains open to interpretation. Precious and semi-precious stones have profound meanings and symbolism that vary according to culture, belief and time. Here's a general explanation of the common meanings of popular birthstones by month.
- BIRTHSTONES
MONTH
STONE
VIRTUES
January
Garnet
- Joy
- Sincerity
- Energy
February
Amethyst
- Wisdom
- Serenity
- Balance
Mars
Aquamarine
- Creativity
- Softness
- Communication
April
Diamond
- Love
- Resilience
- Abundance
May
Emerald
- Benevolence
- Openness
- Lucidity
June
Pearl, alexandrite
- Authenticity
- Wellness
- Altruism
July
Ruby
- Hapiness
- Courage
- Loyalty
August
Péridot
- Confidence
- Self-esteem
- appeasement
September
Sapphire
- Calm
- Regulation
- Perseverance
October
Opal, tourmaline
- Awakening
- Protection
- Solidity
November
Citrine
- Balance
- Joie de vivre
- Harmonie
December
Blue topaz
- Hope
- Friendship
- Dialogue
January: Garnet
Garnet, January birthstoneshines in all its splendor with an enchanting hue. Its January birth colora deep, bewitching redevokes warmth and passion. This gem is considered a source of energy, elevating courage and inspiring determination in the face of life's challenges. In addition to its energizing power, garnet is also linked to love and sincere friendship. So garnet, the stone of January, dazzles not only with its sumptuous color, but also with its virtues of joy and boldness.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst, February birthstoneenchanting by its birth color of a captivating violet. Endowed with soothing energy, amethyst is reputed to calm the restless mind and encourage meditation. This gem is an invaluable guide in our quest for wisdom and intuition. A symbol of clarity and sobriety, amethyst helps us make informed decisions and maintain a balanced mind. In short, amethyst, the February stone, makes us dance merrily as it imparts its soothing and protective virtues. It accompanies us with grace and benevolence on the path to personal fulfillment and inner peace.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarine, mars birthstoneThe color of its birth is an astonishing crystalline blue reminiscent of clear waters. Its gentle, refreshing energy soothes troubled emotions, offering a sense of inner calm. It is a balm for the soul, promoting calm and clarity of mind. A symbol of hope and renewal, aquamarine is like a wave of inspiration, awakening creativity and imagination. This gem is also associated with communication and the sincere expression of emotions. Visit virtues of aquamarine facilitate connection with others by encouraging harmonious, truthful exchanges.
April: Diamond
Diamond, April birthstoneIt sparkles like a star in a brilliant sky. Its birth color, a crystal purityevokes the luminosity of emerging spring. A symbol of eternity and unshakeable strength, the diamond embodies the power of true love. As this traditional gem is formed under extreme pressure, it evokes resilience and courage in the face of life's challenges. Visit diamond virtues go far beyond its sparkling beauty. This gemstone is reputed to amplify positive energies, attracting prosperity and abundance. Like a mirror to the soul, this April birthstone is a celebration of life and the inner radiance that resides within each of us.
May: Emerald
Emerald, May birthstonedazzles with the color of its birth from a intense greenreminiscent of fresh spring meadows. A symbol of growth and fertility, emerald evokes the rebirth of nature and promotes personal fulfillment. It is a source of vital energy that nourishes the soul and opens the door to new possibilities. This gem encourages authenticity in our actions and words. Visit virtues of emerald also extend to the realm of the heart and clarity of mind, an invitation to embrace the beauty of the world around us and the richness of who we really are.
June: Pearl
The pearl, June birthstonefascinates us with its delicate beauty and its pearly birth colorevoking the silvery glow of the moon on calm waters. This precious gem teaches us that beauty lies in authenticity and natural grace. A symbol of purity and innocence, it encourages reflection and introspection. Pearls are associated with maternal love and protection, often given to new mothers as a symbol of tenderness and strong family ties. The virtues of the pearl also extend to the realm of emotions, constantly reminding us of the importance of self-giving.
July: Ruby
The ruby, June birthstoneshines with its fiery brilliance, capturing the vibrant hues of the summer sun. Its birth color is reminiscent of the beautiful summer raspberries picked at the edge of the path. A symbol of happiness and passion, the ruby encourages us to live in the moment and seize every moment with optimism and boldness. The ruby's virtues are those of courage and strength. It is the talisman of warriors, instilling determination and bravery in the face of challenges. This July gem celebrates loyalty, reminding us that commitment and fidelity are the solid foundations of lasting relationships.
August: Peridot
Peridot, August birthstoneilluminates hearts with the color of its birth, a brilliant shimmering green reminiscent of fresh summer harvests. Symbolizing confidence and renewal, peridot is the jewel that awakens our inner assurance. It guides us along the path of confidence in our abilities and conviction in our choices. Visit virtues of peridot also extends into the realm of appeasement, calming troubled minds and promoting inner harmony. This August gem radiates serenity, invites peace and inspires the discovery of our unlimited potential.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire, September birthstoneenchanting by its birth color of a deep, mysterious blueof infinite oceans. A symbol of calm and emotional regulation, sapphire is like an oasis of peace in the whirlwind of life. Sapphire's virtues include perseverance and determination, helping us to refocus and keep our balance in the storm. This precious gem embodies the quiet strength that keeps us on our feet, reminding us that clarity of mind and patience are the keys to overcoming hardship.
October: Opal
L'Opale, october birthstonefascinates with its multicoloured birth color, reflecting a rainbow in a sky of enveloping clouds. A symbol of awakening and transformation, opal is like a kaleidoscope of emotions and possibilities. As October's birthstone, it encourages us to embrace change with serenity and find beauty in the unpredictable. Opal's virtues also extend to protection and solidity. This precious gem is reputed to repel negative energies and protect against undesirable influences.
November: Citrine
Citrine, November birthstoneilluminates the heart with the color of its birth. solar yellowreminiscent of the warm rays at the end of an autumn day. A symbol of positive energy and abundance, citrine reminds us that every day brings an opportunity to celebrate life. It is the messenger of optimism, lighting our path with its golden hues. Citrine's virtues also extend to emotional balance and harmony between body and mind, inviting us to reconnect with our deepest essence.
December: Topaz
Topaz, December birthstoneshimmers with the color of its birth. celestial blue reminiscent of a clear winter sky. A symbol of hope and truth, this gem is the North Star that guides our path to a radiant future. A messenger of light, it envelops us in its brilliant aura, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, hope always shines through. Visit virtues of topaz are also geared towards sincere friendship and open dialogue, encouraging exchanges marked by authenticity, understanding and the cultivation of enriching relationships.
Birthstones per month
MONTH
STONE
VIRTUES
January
Garnet
February
Amethyst
Mars
Aquamarine
April
Diamond
May
Emerald
June
Pearl
July
Ruby
August
Péridot
September
Sapphire
October
Opal
November
Citrine
December
Topaz
Birthstones
January : Garnet
Virtues: Joy, sincerity, energy
February : Amethyst
Virtues: Wisdom, serenity, balance
March: Aquamarine
Virtues: Creativity, gentleness, communication
April: Diamond
Virtues: Love, resilience, abundance
May: Emerald
Virtues : Benevolence, openness, lucidity
June: Pearl
Virtues: Authenticity, well-being, altruism
July : Ruby
Virtues : Happiness, courage, loyalty
August: Peridot
Virtues : Confidence, self-esteem, appeasement
September: Sapphire
Virtues : Calm, regulation, perseverance
October: Opale
Virtues : Awakening, protection, solidity
November: Citrine
Virtues: Balance, joie de vivre, harmony
December: Topaz
Virtues: Hope, friendship, dialogue
How to choose a birthstone
Choosing a birthstone can be a fascinating process, combining gemology, lithotherapy and gem symbolism. In gemmology, each month corresponds to a traditional gem associated with birth. Lithotherapy is concerned withstone energy and can influence your choice of birthstone. If you feel an attraction to a particular stone that is not the one assigned to your birth month, it may be that its vibration suits you better. Trust your perceptions and intuition.
By selecting the right gemstone jewelry, you offer a personalized gift that goes beyond a simple piece of symbolic jewelry. It's a meaningful birth gift that, in addition to its aesthetic appeal, encapsulates the history of gems. The jewel of the month serves as a constant reminder of our birth, linking us to the Earth and its mineral wonders. Understanding and appreciating these concepts enriches the experience of choosing and wearing these precious jewels.
The virtues of birthstones
Lithotherapy is a form of alternative therapy that focuses on the use of mineral stones and crystals. These gems are recognized for their specific energies and ability to positively influence the wearer. Each gem of the month possesses unique virtues, described in the gem guideand their significance goes beyond aesthetics. The traditional gem chosen for each month can represent various qualities such as strength, wisdom or peace.
In short, birthstones are not only beautiful birth gifts; they are imbued with profound meanings and virtues that can inspire and comfort. Their choice and appreciation are enriched by an understanding of the stones' symbolism and energy, making each piece of jewelry a personal and unique experience.
Birthstones
January : Garnet
Virtues: Joy, sincerity, energy
February : Amethyst
Virtues: Wisdom, serenity, balance
March: Aquamarine
Virtues: Creativity, gentleness, communication
April: Diamond
Virtues: Love, resilience, abundance
May: Emerald
Virtues : Benevolence, openness, lucidity
June: Pearl and Alexandrite
Virtues: Authenticity, well-being, altruism
July : Ruby
Virtues : Happiness, courage, loyalty
August: Peridot
Virtues : Confidence, self-esteem, appeasement
September: Sapphire
Virtues : Calm, regulation, perseverance
October: Opal and Tourmaline
Virtues : Awakening, protection, solidity
November: Citrine
Virtues: Balance, joie de vivre, harmony
December : Blue topaz
Virtues: Hope, friendship, dialogue
FAQ
1. How are birthstones assigned to each month?
2. How can I use my birthstone?
3 - Are there alternative birthstones for each month?
- January: Tiger's eye and Moonstone
- February: Onyx and Jade
- Mars: Heliotrope and Jadeite
- May: Chrysoprase and Prehnite
- June: Agate and Alexandrite
- July: Carnelian and rhodolite garnet
- August: Green Quartz and Spinel
- September: Lapis lazuli and Lolite
- October: Tourmaline
- November: Topaz
- December: Tanzanite and Turquoise
4 How do I care for my birthstone?
5. May I wear a birthstone that does not correspond to my month of birth?
Conclusion
We hope this article has answered your many questions about the meaning and history of birthstones. Thanks to the knowledge of the jewellers at Flamme en rose , this Montreal jewelry store is the ideal place to help you choose your personalized jewelry.
Whether for christenings, weddings or anniversaries, the jewelers at Flamme en rose notice year after year that requests for jewelry with birthstones continue to grow. "More and more people are coming to see us to create jewelry with gems they own and that have great meaning for them," says Michèle Côté, chief designer and co-owner of Flamme en rose. "We also encourage people to buy laboratory-created colored gemstones as an eco-responsible option that causes less damage to our planet."
Whether through jewelry processing or through the jewelry creation With birthstones, Flamme en rose 's approach to jewelry goes beyond the simple commercial transaction; it offers a human and inclusive service, guiding each customer in the discovery of the stones that best resonate with them.
Get an online consultation with one of our jewelers