The Laings Journal
Discover Birthstones with Laings
Birthstones add a special meaning to jewellery and are a wonderful gift to give. With mystical associations and incredible beauty, they make fascinating jewellery pieces. But why do we have birthstones and why do people wear them? Here we explore the story behind the gems.
Every month in the calendar has been assigned a birthstone, with a beautiful range of gems spread throughout the year. Most people know what their birthstone is, but few people know the story behind them and how they were chosen for each month.
Let’s explore the story of birthstones…
Birthstones date back to ancient times and the Greeks, Egyptians, Romans and Persians all assigned different gemstones to the months of the year. They believed that when they were worn in the assigned months their powers were heightened.
However, the origin of birthstones can be traced back to biblical times. The historian Titus Flavius Josephus declared that the 12 stone’s in Aaron’s, the High Priest of the Hebrews, breastplate had special connections to the months of the year and zodiac signs. Since then many cultures have bought into the legend and believe that the birthstones for each month have magical healing powers and bring good luck.
In the Middle Ages in Europe, many people used birthstones as good luck charms. The wealthy would even wear all 12 at ones, just like Aaron, in the hope that it would bring them good fortune. The 16th century Queen of France was a huge fan of this look and made a sparkling fashion statement with the 12 gems.
But, how were the birthstones chosen for each month? In 1912 the National Association of Jewelers created the gemstone list that we use today, with a few modifications along the way. Since then the idea of birthstones has really taken off.
What are the birthstones for each month?
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Pearl
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot
- September: Sapphire
- October: Tourmaline or Opal
- November: Topaz or Citrine
- December: Tanzanite
There’s a romantic notion attached to giving a birthstone gift. By choosing a beautiful piece of jewellery, corresponding to a birth month, you’re also bestowing the positive attributes and well-wishes that the gem holds to the wearer. People enjoy wearing them as it’s something personal to them and holds extra meaning.
From birthstone pendants, bracelets, rings or earrings it’s a really unique and personal gift that adds that individual touch. There are more emotion and sentimentality attached to them and a birthstone gift will always be something that’s treasured forever.
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