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 Birthstones: Their Origin And Qualities |
06 Mar 09 |
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By: Sebastian Marders |
Birthstones: Their Origin And Qualities
There are 12 birthstones representing each of the months in a year.
Their origin can probably be attributed back to the biblical times,
during the time of Moses, where twelve colors comprised the Breast
Plate of the High Priest, which represents Israel's twelve tribes.
After several centuries, the number "12" took on symbolic meaning such
as the twelve apostles, the twelve months of the year, the twelve signs
of the zodiac, the twelve foundations of the Holy City and many others.
The assignment of the gemstones to each calendar year can be traced to
the Gregorian birthstone poem where each month has its own gem:
January - Garnet
February - Amethyst
March - Aquamarine
April - Diamond
May - Emerald
June - Pearl
July - Ruby
August - Peridot
September - Sapphire
October - Opal
November - Topaz
December - Tanzanite
Birthstone Jewelry makes for a perfect birthday gift. Here are some interesting facts about some of the birthstones:
1. Garnet - (January) This birthstone is also designated to be
given on the second and sixth anniversaries. Deep red in color, this
gemstone is made of neosilicates. It was the fourth stone in the High
Priest's Breast Plate during Moses' time. It is known as an amulet for
travelers to guard them against harm while on a journey.
2. Ruby - (July) This birthstone was known for its curative powers
during the Middle Ages. Blood-red in color, this gem is made up of
stable aluminum oxide. It is also known as the "rarest gem" or the
"king of all gems" by Jewelers in America. It is believed to be true
that owners of rubies are to have good fortune, peace and good health.
3. Aquamarine - (March) The symbol of everlasting youth and
happiness, the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans have regarded this gemstone
as one that is of high value. It has the color of the blue sea, or blue
green, having the composition of beryl, the same element present in
emeralds. It is said to be an amulet for restoring lost love,
increasing patience and healing laziness.
4. Amethyst - (February) According to legends, Amethyst is a
beautiful young maiden turned by Goddess Diana into a pillar of quartz
to protect her from Bacchus' wrath. Bacchus is known to be the "God of
Wine." After repenting, Bacchus poured red wine into Amethyst, which
gave this valuable quartz its purple color. It is known to be an amulet
to prevent drunkenness and remain sober while drinking liquor. It is
also known to make the owner smart and successful in business.
5. Peridot - (August) This gemstone is known for its utmost
simplicity. It does not have any color variation except olive green. It
is used as a talisman to ward off bad spirits and other night
creatures, enhances the mood of the owner and gives them the power to
have convincing speech.
6. Topaz - (November) Known as a symbol of friendship. When used as
an amulet, it is believed to relieve the owner from sadness and help
them with intellect and courage. It has color variations and the most
common is the yellow one. Blue topaz is the birthstone for December.
By: Sebastian Marders www.articlerich.com
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