What is the meaning of birth stones?
Originally tied to the signs of the zodiac, birth stones are gemstones associated with the month of an individual's birth. Some people believe birth stones, also called natal stones, are good luck charms that carry protective powers. Does this Spark an idea?
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January and February
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Garnet is the birth stone for January. January's stone, the brilliant red garnet, is associated with the pomegranate seeds in the Greek myth of Persephone. February's amethyst is a form of purple quartz believed to confer mental clarity.
March and April
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Diamonds are the birth stone for April. According to the American Gem Society, March has two gemstones: aquamarine, bringing calm and security; and bloodstone with supposed healing powers. April's stone is the diamond, also believed to heal.
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May and June
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May's birth stone is emerald. May's green emerald is a symbol of rebirth, renewed youth and good fortune. June's stones are moonstone, pearl and alexandrite. Ancient peoples believed the moonstone changed with the phases of the moon.
July and August
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July's ruby is associated with royalty. The ruby, July's birth stone, endowed with sacred powers by ancient Hindus, is associated with royalty and power. August's primary stone is peridot, which ancient Egyptians associated with the sun.
September and October
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Sapphires are the birth stone for September. September's stones are sapphire or lapis lazuli. Since the Middle Ages, people have attributed the sapphire to both medical and spiritual healing properties. In popular belief, October's opal wards off evil and nightmares.
November and December
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Turqoise is December's birth stone. Topaz and citrine, November's stone choices, both supposedly carry magical healing powers; while the Navajo people believed December's turquoise stones were pieces of the sky that had fallen to Earth.
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References
Resources
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