The History and Significance of Birthstone Jewelry

Introduction

People have been fascinated with birthstone jewelry for over hundreds of years because of its beauty, symbolism and personal touch. Every month of the year is linked to a particular gemstone hence people believe that wearing your birthstone can help you have good luck, protection and you will feel more connected to your own month of birth. In the next section we shall present the historical background and importance of birth stones in jewelry industry.

The Origins of Birthstones

One of the oldest references regarding birthstones can be found within texts from the Mesopotamians or Egyptians themselves who believed gems had mystical powers. According to the belief every gemstone gave its wearer both protection as well as healing powers.

Europe began linking certain months with individual gemstones during the 18th century and this association was further developed over the centuries until now. During this same period various gem and jewelry associations have been able to standardize the list of birthstones across countries thereby promoting a more consistent tradition.

Evolution Through History

The American National Retail Jewelers Association, formed in 1912 and currently known as Jewelers of America, decided to come up with an official list of birthstones for every month which is currently used across the world. Any changes made to this list have been minimal such as adding newly found stones or giving alternative options for some months.

The Meaning of Birthstones

Every birthstone has its own distinct meaning and significance.

1. January - Garnet: Symbolizing protection, garnet is believed to bring peace and prosperity to its wearer.
2. February - Amethyst: Associated with tranquility and clarity, amethyst is said to calm the mind and protect against intoxication.
3. March - Aquamarine: Representing courage and health, aquamarine is thought to soothe and protect.
4. April - Diamond: Symbolizing eternal love and strength, diamonds are known for their enduring beauty and resilience.
5. May - Emerald: Signifying rebirth and love, emeralds are believed to grant foresight and good fortune.
6. June - Pearl/Alexandrite: Pearls represent purity and wisdom, while alexandrite is associated with balance and joy.
7. July - Ruby: Known for passion and vitality, rubies are thought to bring success and protection.
8. August - Peridot: Symbolizing strength and healing, peridot is believed to protect against nightmares and bring clarity.
9. September - Sapphire: Representing wisdom and loyalty, sapphires are thought to protect against envy and harm.
10. October - Opal/Tourmaline: Opals symbolize hope and creativity, while tourmalines are associated with healing and friendship.
11. November - Topaz/Citrine: Topaz is linked to strength and intellect, while citrine is believed to bring joy and energy.
12. December - Turquoise/Tanzanite/Zircon: These stones symbolize prosperity and protection, with turquoise bringing good fortune, tanzanite representing transformation, and zircon offering wisdom and honor.

Birthstones in Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry has turned into a favorite way of marking the month in which one was born, thereby creating a sentimental link between itself and its owner. Birthstone jewelry comes in various forms such as rings, necklaces, earrings as well as bracelets thereby being considered to be the most valuable treasures for mothers. Oftentimes these stones are put into costly metals like gold or silver which serves two purposes; they make these precious stones more delicate looking and add a bit more class to them.

The Modern Appeal of Birthstone Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry is worn by many individuals as a form of self-expression for its aesthetic appeal and as a result of sentimental value. Besides having an emotional bond with such ornaments because they have one's own unique birth month characteristics inscribed on them, they tend to identify more easily with who they are by wearing their birthstones on themselves. It is possible to offer customized birthstone jewelry pieces which could be used as presents meant for people who their personalities should be considered while giving them gifts.

Conclusion

Ancient traditions and beliefs are what birthstone jewelry owes its history and significance to. Cherished by their wearers for generations, these gorgeous stones are associated with wealth in meanings and also in terms of personal identity. To this day, no matter if one prefers to wear birthstone jewelry for its history, symbolism, or beauty alone, it remains a classic choice that is full of meaning in the jewelry world.