History of Birthstone

We have been brought up knowing the traditions of gifting and wearing birthstones, their bright sparkling colour representing our month of birth, but did you know that Birthstones have a great history dating back to the bible! Let’s take a look back at where it all started!

Historians have traced birthstones back to the book of exodus in the bible where 12 unique gemstones adorned the breastplate of Aaron. These 12 gemstones represented the 12 tribes of Israel and had the ability to tell people their fate. 500 years later, historian Joseph believed there was a connection between these 12 stones in Aaron’s breastplate, the 12 months of the year and the power of each of the 12 zodiacs.

Later in the 5^th Century, based off Josephs revelations, Historian St Jerome encouraged Christians to wear these gemstones. Unlike today, they would collect all 12 gemstones and then wear the assigned gemstone for that period where it’s believed that gemstone would have enhanced powers.

The modern tradition of always wearing one birthstone according to the wearers month of birth has been traced to Poland in the 18^th Century when Jewish gem traders arrived in the area.

Even though Birthstones have been used for many centuries, there was no official consensus on the list of gemstones. In 1912, the National Association of Jewellers in the USA came together to define our modern list of birthstones based off historic beliefs and traditions and modern practicality. This was modified in 1952 to add more modern gemstones that have only more recently become available. 

DO BIRTHSTONES POSESS SPECIAL POWERS OR MEANING?
Although it is currently believed that birthstones don’t have any religious significance, there are ancient superstitions which claim the stones do possess special powers & meanings.
Lets take a look:

• JANUARY- Garnet
  Garnet symbolises Fidelity, loyalty, sincerity, grace and faith.

• FEBRUARY- Amethyst
  Amethyst symbolises peace, protection, tranquillity and sincerity.

• MARCH- Aquamarine
  Aquamarine symbolises honesty, loyalty and beauty.

• APRIL- Diamond
  Diamond is the most coveted gemstone of all time, symbolising eternal love.

• MAY- Emerald
  Emeralds are believed to improve memory, faith, and intuition and symbolise constancy and true affection.

• JUNE- Pearl
  Symbolises wealth, status, chastity, and purity.

• JULY- Ruby 
• Rubies symbolise love and passion, and attracts good luck.

• AUGUST- Peridot
  Peridot symbolises dignity, fame and prosperity.

• SEPTEMBER- Sapphire
  Sapphires symbolise sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility.

• OCTOBER- Opal & Tourmaline
  Opal symbolises faithfulness & confidence. Pink Tourmaline symbolises compassion & unconditional love.

• NOVEMBER- Topaz & Citrine
  Citrine attracts positivity and lifts one’s mood while promoting vitality and energy.
  Blue Topaz symbolises love & affection and provides strength and intelligence to its wearer.

• DECEMBER- Turquoise, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite
  Turquoise grants good health, fortune and protection from evil.
  Blue Zircon symbolises wisdom & wealth.
  Tanzanite symbolises stability, wisdom & truth.

Do you believe in the meaning behind your birthstone or do you love wearing a stone that is personal to you?

MODERN DAY BIRTHSTONE JEWELLERY 
Birthstones always make beautiful gifts showcasing one’s personal birthstone or combining family members birthstones to make a stunning personalised piece.
Take a look at our birthstone collection instore or online or speak to our friendly staff about a custom made piece just for you.