Birthstones are various gemstones in vibrant colors. Birthstones have always captivated a woman's attention. It is natural for a woman to cherish a desire to possess birthstone jewelry. Enhance your jewelry collection by adding precious birthstone jewelry to it. Be it a birthstone ring, a pair of birthstone studs or a birthstone pendant, it is sure to occupy pride of place in your jewelry chest.
What is so alluring about birthstones? What does it mean to its owner? Are the magical virtues of birthstones true? What changes does it beget? This article provides an answer to these questions as well as imparts useful information for choosing your birthstone colors. Peruse the birthstone chart for selecting birthstone jewelry that is just right for you!
History of Birthstones
The origin of birthstones can be traced back to the time of Moses. A biblical illustration of the same can be found in Exodus 28, 15-30. It is said that Moses in accordance to the instructions from God, ordered a breastplate for his brother Aaron, who was the first head priest. During religious ceremonies, the head priest used the breastplate. Moses dutifully followed the divine instructions and commissioned the making of a breastplate with 12 colors (gemstones) arranged in a particular manner.
The command of Moses was followed and a breastplate with four rows of three gemstones each was made to represent the twelve tribes of Israel was made. With time, the significance has undergone changes. The gemstones that initially represented the twelve tribes of Israel have now come to represent the twelve months of the calendar and the twelve signs of the Zodiac. Eventually, people preferred wearing gemstones that match their stone of birth, marking the evolution of birthstones.
Birthstones
Mother Nature is endowed with more than three thousand crystals, minerals and biogenic minerals. Of these, a very small percentage possesses the necessary characteristics to be termed as gemstones. To classify a material as a true gemstone, its beauty, durability, rarity and portability is considered. The official list introduced by The American National Association of Jewelers in the year 1912 is recognized as the modern birthstone list.
The list of birthstones that represent older birthstones is acknowledged as traditional birthstones. This list comprises both traditional birthstones as well as new additional birthstones. Birthstones of Tibetan origin that date back thousand years are referred to as mystical birthstones. These stones are widely believed to help overcome the obstacles. The list of birthstones derived with Ayurvedic Indian Medicine as its base is termed as Ayurvedic Birthstone list. These birthstones are widely acknowledged for their healing effects.
Gemstones and the Zodiac Sign
The prevailing Zodiac sign decides zodiac gemstones. For a person born on February 9th the birthstone (refer birthstone chart) is Amethyst. However, the Zodiac sign being Aquarius, the Zodiac gemstone is Garnet.
Aries - Bloodstone
Taurus - Sapphire
Gemini - Agate
Cancer - Emerald
Leo - Onyx
Virgo - Cornelian
Libra - Chrysolite
Scorpio - Beryl
Sagittarius - Topaz
Capricorn - Ruby
Aquarius - Garnet
Pisces - Amethyst
Birthstone colors
Colors have a considerable effect on us. From bright passionate red to youthful green and stark black, birthstone colors have their unique significance.
Birthstone jewelry
The value and importance of birthstone jewelry may vary. While for some it could be a talisman for others it is likely to signify victory and success in all their endeavors. Birthstones are generally worn close to the skin, like the wrist, earlobes, neckline, fingers and ankles.
While you select the most suitable birthstone, beware that the market is flooded with a variety of gemstones, which may or may not be genuine. The best way to decide is to check whether the gemstone is a genuine birthstone, a natural gemstone or a synthetic gemstone.
Birthstone rings
It is a popular trend these days to opt for birthstone rings as engagement rings. From time immemorial, birthstone rings have been associated with good luck. They are said to bestow the wearer with courage and strength. In fact, a birthstone ring is believed to be a protective armor against problems. Little wonder that they are gaining in popularity.