What is my Birth Stone?

What is my Birth Stone?  Birth stones correspond to the month you were born. They can be traced back to the Bible. In Exodus 28, Moses sets forth directions for making special garments for Aaron, brother of Moses and the High Priest of the Hebrews. Specifically, the breastplate was to contain twelve precious gemstones, each representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Aaron's ceremonial breastplate is said to be the origin of birthstones.

How did these breastplate gems turn into the birthstones we all know today? Stepping forward to the 1st and 5th century AD scholars, Flavius Josephus and St. Jerome, are credited with associating the 12 breastplate gems with the 12 signs of the zodiac.

Some believe that these stones have healing or other metaphysical properties, while some simply appreciate the gems for their vibrancy and luster. But whatever you believe it’s a great excuse to treat yourself or someone special to a very personal piece of jewellery.

 

• January Birthstone: Garnet

Long considered to be protective stones that ward off negativity, garnets come in a range of stunning colours. The name “garnet” comes from the Latin word “Garanatus,” meaning seed like” in reference to a pomegranate. 

• February Birthstone: Amethyst

From faint lilac to deep purple, amethysts are known for their alluring hues. Amethysts are believed to have a calming, sobering affect. The name amethyst derives from the ancient Greek word amethustos, meaning sober.

• March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Known as the gem of the sea this stone is said to promote cool sensibility and confidence. The name Aquamarine comes from the Latin aqua marinus, meaning "water of the sea," and refers to its sparkling ocean-like colour.

• April Birthstone: Diamond

The Ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were splinters of stars that had fallen to earth, and that anyone who wore them were blessed with love and purity. The word diamond is derived from Late Latin diamas, from Latin adamas, which is of Greek origin meaning "invincible, untamed

• May Birthstone: Emerald

Every emerald has flaws making each one unique. They were prized for being symbolic of mental power, wisdom and eloquence. The name Emerald is a girl’s name of Persian origin meaning ‘green’.

 

• June Birthstone: Pearl

Pearls have been known for their healing properties for centuries. They are believed to promote true friendship and love when worn. The word pearl originates from the late Middle English: from Old French perle, perhaps based on Latin perna ‘leg’, extended to denote a leg-of-mutton-shaped bivalve.

• July Birthstone: Ruby

It has been believed throughout the ages that these stunning precious stones have magical healing and protective powers. The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, which means red.

• August Birthstone: Peridot

Peridot, symbolizes strength. When set in gold, this gem was said to protect the wearer from nightmares.  Peridot is named after the French word peritot, meaning gold, because the mineral can vary towards this color.

• September Birthstone: Sapphire

Sapphire is used most often for protection purposes. If you are worried about physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual attacks, the protective properties of this crystal will be very beneficial. The word sapphire comes from Old French safir, via Latin from Greek sappheiros,

• October Birthstone: Opal

Opals have been worn as symbols of hope and purity and it was believed that they have magical healing powers. The name opal is thought to be derived from the Sanskrit upala, meaning “precious stone,” and later the Greek derivative “Opallios,” meaning “to see a change of color.”

• November Birthstone: Topaz

Topaz is a symbol of love and affection, and has been said to be an aid to ones sweetness and disposition. Topaz gets its name from the Greek word topazion, which may originate from the Sanskrit tapas, meaning, “fire.” 

• December Birthstone: Turquoise

The turquoise is the symbol of friendship. It also brings peace to the home. The word "turquoise" came from French, meaning "Turkish stone" or "Turkish jewel".

 

At Friar House we have birthstones for every month. View our full range of jewellery on line at https://friarhouse.com/