Birthstone jewelry has always been a prized possession. Not only does its glittery sparkle reflect your month of birth, but its symbolic meaning connects deeply to emotions and memories. Now, with modern jewelers reinterpreting age-old traditions like birthstones into modern pieces like birthstone collections, now is an excellent time to explore its depths. So, whether you are thinking of gifting a birthstone piece or simply curious about your own birthstone, let’s discover the magic behind them
The History of Birthstones: Where Did They Begin?
The ancient world was full of mysteries and wonders. One such wonder was the allure of birthstones.
- Ancient Cultures: The origin of birthstones can be traced back to the biblical era. The Breastplate of Aaron, as described in the Bible’s book of Exodus, had 12 stones, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. These stones later became associated with the signs of the zodiac and eventually the months of the year.
- Wear All the Stones: In the past, it was common for individuals to own all 12 stones. They would wear each stone in its respective month, believing that it would provide specific therapeutic or talismanic benefits.
- Modern Interpretation: Today, the list of birthstones has evolved, and while its roots are ancient, the modern list as we know it was standardized in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Association.
The Meaning Behind Each Birthstone
Every birthstone is different and has a special meaning and background.
- January – Garnet: Symbolizing protection, garnet was often worn by travelers to protect against harm. It’s believed to bring peace, prosperity, and health.
- February – Amethyst: Revered for its stunning purple hue, amethyst stands for wisdom and strength. It’s also believed to protect its wearer from intoxication.
- March – Aquamarine: The serene color of the sea, aquamarine is said to soothe and calm. It stands for courage and health.
- April – Diamond: A symbol of everlasting love, diamonds signify courage and, being one of the hardest substances, represent invincibility.
- May – Emerald: This green gem stands for rebirth and love. It’s believed to grant foresight and good fortune.
- June – Pearl: Representing purity and innocence, pearls have always been a classic choice for bridal jewelry.
- July – Ruby: Signifying passion and love, rubies are considered to protect against evil.
- August – Peridot: This olive-green stone stands for strength and is believed to ward off nightmares.
- September – Sapphire: Symbolizing nobility and purity, sapphires are believed to protect against harm and represent wisdom.
- October – Opal: Standing for hope and faith, opals are also associated with creativity and spontaneity.
- November – Topaz: Representing love and affection, it’s believed that topaz provides strength to its wearer.
- December – Turquoise: A symbol of good fortune and success, turquoise is considered to bring peace to the home and good health to its wearer.
The Charm and Appeal: Why Birthstone Jewelry?
Ever wondered what makes birthstone jewelry so special? Let’s delve into the mystique.
- Personal Connection: Birthstones offer a personal touch. It represents one’s unique identity, the month of birth, and the qualities associated with it.
- Heirloom Quality: Birthstone jewelry often gets passed down through generations. It’s not just a piece of adornment but a legacy.
- Versatile Designs: Modern jewelry designers, including brands like Evry Jewels, are crafting exquisite pieces blending traditional and contemporary styles.
- Perfect for Gifting: Be it birthdays, anniversaries, or milestones, birthstone jewelry makes for a thoughtful and memorable gift.
Tips on Choosing Birthstone Jewelry
Selecting the perfect birthstone piece is an art. Here are some pointers to guide you.
- Know the Quality: Like any gemstone, birthstones vary in quality. Understand the four Cs – cut, color, clarity, and carat.
- Setting Matters: The metal setting can enhance or diminish the stone’s beauty. Choose a setting that complements the stone’s hue.
- Personal Style: While tradition is essential, it’s also vital to consider the personal style of the wearer. Some might prefer minimalist designs, while others might lean towards statement pieces.
- Trust Reputed Brands: Always buy from reputed jewelers. Brands that have built trust over the years, like Evry Jewels, ensure you get authentic and high-quality pieces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, birthstone jewelry is not just about sparkling gems set in metal; it’s about history, emotions, significance, and stories. Whether you’re wearing it, gifting it, or simply admiring it, there’s a world of wonder and mystique in every birthstone piece. Dive deep, discover their stories, and let them become a part of yours.