Birth Stone Facts
The designated gemstones for the calendar year are garnet (January), amethyst (February), aquamarine (March), diamond (April), emerald (May), ruby (June), pearl (July), peridot (August), sapphire (September), opal (October), citrine (November) and turquoise (December). Does this Spark an idea?
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Official List
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The American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America adopted an official list of birthstones in 1912.
12 Tribes of Israel
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It's believe the birthstone concept arose from the breastplate described in the Bible that Aaron wore. It had 12 stones that each represented a tribe of Israel.
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Properties
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Each stone is said to contain powers or healing properties. Amethysts ward off intoxication and insomnia, and heal addictions; peridots attract luck, peace and love.
Engagement
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Some women prefer to have their birthstone instead of a diamond for their engagement ring, or to have the stone included in the setting.
Zodiac
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Each stone is affiliated with a zodiac sign, like the sapphire, which is tied to Virgo, who dominates September. The Virgo's personality bears similar traits to those associated with sapphire, such as purity and faithfulness.
Alternate Stones
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Five months have more than one official birthstone. For instance, March also has the bloodstone, and December counts blue topaz, zircon, tanzanite and lapis lazuli along with turquoise.
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