From earliest times, gemstones have been valued for their beauty and rarity. Both ancient Indians and Babylonians believed that certain gems carried strange and wonderful cosmological powers. It may have been the Assyrians who first attached meanings to desired gems as early as 1400 B.C.
During the first century, Flavius Josephus was the one who connected the gemstones with a corresponding sign of the zodiac. Having the right stone on you each month protected you and ensured assess to magical and healing powers. The rich and the ones who could afford it collected all 12 stones. Of course, this meant that they are protected during the whole year.
It is believed that the first birthstones listings, which became all the rage in poetry, have been created by some Jewish gem traders in Poland or jewelers in Germany. Back in 1870, Tiffany & Co., the famous jewelry business, published one of the Gregorian Poems. The gems were matched with months of the year and specific features have been assigned to each of them, respectively.
During 1912, the National Association of Jewelers created a modern list, which has been updated in 1952. Tanzanite was added to the December listing in 2004 and only four years later, the tanzanite cartel suggested giving this stone to every child instead of just to the ones born in December. They came up with the logo “Be Born to Tanzanite.” However, it turns out that this advertisement didn’t really catch on with the public, as most people are still not familiar with tanzanite.
Find out more about the gemstone, the lovely piece of Mother Nature`s handwork, below, you can find the stone that matches your birth month and discover its fabled benefits:
January-Garnet
It is found in every color except blue. It might prevent nightmares and snakebites and can provide directional guidance in darkness. Wearers may see an increase in their self-image, will power and energy levels, and nervous people may feel calmer. Faith, love and constancy are its attributes.
February-Purple amethyst
Speaks of peace, temperance, serenity and royalty. Wearing this stone may protect you from the effects of drunkenness. The Pope always wears an amethyst ring.
March- Pale Blue Aquamarine Gemstones
These stones as well as the blood stone are linked to youth, love, hope, and good health. Wearing this gem can build your courage, make you happier, and re-awaken married love.
April- Diamonds
It is believed that diamonds can ward off insanity. They can be found in various colors, but the eternal love and invincibility are the features they all share.
May-Green emeralds
Speak of health, faithfulness, fertility and improved eyesight.
June-The cool, milky beauty of pearls or moonstones
Suggest chastity, modesty and stable marriage relationships. These gems are available in sophisticated black, gray, chocolate and the familiar creamy-white colors.
July – Red Rubies
The red rubies are tokens of peace and harmony. Their beauty is associated with nobility and strength. The people who wear them may attract good company and good luck.
August- Light Green Peridot
This gem has its own special sparkle. Tradition says that people who wear or carry peridot will be able to ward off enchantments, depression, and evil.
September-Sapphires
Are available in a variety of delicate colors in addition to the more common blue shades. They speak of dignity, loyalty, serenity, faith, purity and wisdom.
October-Opals and tourmaline represent hope, creativity and innocence. They also protect the wearer from envious, mal-intentioned people.
November- Yellow Topaz and Citrine
Are linked to strength and healing of the both body and mind. Its wearers are protected with good mental health.
December – Turquoise, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite
These stones are associated with good life and good fortune. They prevent or cure headaches and ancient practitioners believed that turquoise have the ability to change color when the wearer was in ill.
