Birthstones From Ancient Times to Modern Day

From the ancient Egyptians, to the ancient Israelites of the Old Testament, to the Native Americans, i.e. indigenous tribes on either side of the globe – people of different cultures have believed that certain stones have symbolism, significance, or even magical or mystical powers. Many people believe in crystal healing and use gemstones for healing and for therapy. Furthermore, many believe these gems and precious stones are particularly powerful for people who are born in a certain month.

FACT: “The concept of birthstones originated in the first century, because there was believed to be a connection between the twelve stones in the priestly breastplate, the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac. The translations and interpretations of this have varied over the years, but wearing a single birthstone is only a few centuries old. In 1912, in order to standardize birthstones the Jewelers of America met and officially adopted the list as we know it today.”

OK! So! Birthstones, as we know them today, were the result of a marketing tactic.

Still! I like the idea! Don't you?

Do you know the birthstone for the month you were born?

Monthly Birthstones List:

■ January– Garnet

■ February– Amethyst

■ March– Aquamarine, Bloodstone

■ April– Diamond

■ May– Emerald

■ June– Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite

■ July– Ruby

■ August– Peridot, Spinel

■ September– Sapphire

■ October– Opal, Tourmaline

■ November– Topaz, Citrine

■ December– Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite

Info Sources:

Birthstone Magic ~ https://birthstonemagic.com/

Diamonds Rock ~ http://diamondsrock.com/birth-months-birthstones/