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A birthstone is a special gem dedicated to each month of
the year, often due to beliefs that a stone's mystical power
is stronger during its month, or that the stone possesses
a virtue that can be given only to those born that month.
The concept of the birthstone has been a part of many cultures
for centuries. Many scholars agree that the tradition of birthstones
started with the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment
that was set with twelve various gems representing the twelve
tribes of Israel, the twelve months of the year, and the twelve
signs of the zodiac.
Wearing birthstones became popular in fifteenth century Poland,
but at that time it may have been common for people to own
one of each stone, and to wear each one during its particular
month. An official list of birthstones was first defined in
1912 by the National Association of Jewelers in the United
States, and this is known as the modern birthstone chart,
the most commonly accepted list today. The traditional birthstone
chart varies slightly, as it tends to include some societal
birthstone traditions. The mystical birthstone chart comes
from a TIbetan book and is more connected to the zodiac and
healing powers of the stones. This list will focus on the
modern birthstone list, and will include information regarding
each birthstone's color and composition, myths, beliefs, and
mystical properties.
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| January
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Modern - Garnet
Traditional - Garnet
Mystical - Emerald
Garnet is a silicate mineral that comes in a variety of colors,
but the one most traditionally associated with January is
deep red.
The word "garnet" comes from the Latin word for
"seed." A myth regarding the origins of garnet is
that of Persephone, the Greek goddess of sunshine, who was
captured by the god of the underworld, Hades. When he released
her, he gave her a handful of red pomegranate seeds to guarantee
her return.
Because of its color, garnet is considered to have healing
properties connected with the blood, and is said to purify,
vitalize, and regenerate the circulatory system. Garnet is
also said to inspire romantic love, passion, sensuality, and
intimacy. It also believed to contribute to success in business
by invoking positive thoughts, inspiration, energy, and self
confidence. The wearer is said to become more productive and
achievement-oriented. These attributes of garnet will also
help ward off depression. (January
Trivia)
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| February
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Modern - Amethyst
Traditional - Amethyst
Mystical - Bloodstone
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from
pale violet to dark purple.
A Greek myth about amethyst involves Dionysius, the god of
wine, who was insulted by a mortal. He created tigers that
would act out his revenge on the next mortal to cross his
path, who happened to be a beautiful maiden named Amethyst.
The goddess Diana protected her by turning her into a quartz
statue, and in remorse, Dionysus wept tears of wine, which
stained the quartz purple.
Because of its association with the god of wine, amethyst
is also commonly associated with sobriety, traditionally worn
to guard against drunkenness. It is said to keep the wearer
thinking clearly as well as improve blood circulation to help
alcohol leave the system. The stone will also bring peace
and tranquility to the wearer and is often used as a stress
reliever. It will also guard against nightmares and increase
spiritual awareness. Amethyst is often used in meditation
and is said to enhance psychic abilities. (February
Trivia)
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| March
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Modern - Aquamarine
Traditional - Bloodstone
Mystical - Jade
Aquamarine is a light blue-green stone of the Beryl family.
Because of its name and color, aquamarine is said to protect
those at sea. Sailors would carry aquamarine stones carved
with the image of Neptune, god of the sea, in exchange for
protection from the elements. Aquamarine was also thought
to be the treasure of mermaids, and its mystical properties
are said to strengthen when immersed in water.
Aquamarine calms the wearer by soothing the central nervous
system, and alleviates fears and phobias. As a result, aquamarine
is often associated with serenity and tranquility. Also, aquamarine
aids in the making of new friends and inspires creative self-expression.
It gives the wearer courage and helps them use their inner
power wisely. (March
Trivia)
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| April
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Modern - Diamond
Traditional - Diamond
Mystical - Opal
Diamonds are composed of pure carbon and are the hardest
of all known minerals. They occur in a variety of colors,
but clear or white diamonds are most often used, as colored
diamonds are rare.
There are many legends surrounding the origin of diamonds.
They were thought to be either the tears of God, splinters
from falling stars, or the result of lightning striking rock.
Cupid's arrows are said to be tipped with diamonds.
Commonly used today in engagement rings, diamonds are associated
with love and eternity. Innocence and constancy are also attributed
to the stone. Healing properties of diamonds include the amplification
of thoughts of the wearer. Diamonds were also once thought
to protect from poison, and were worn to promote detoxification,
and are especially good for healing coughs and mucus problems.
(April Trivia)
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(more Birthstones
on page 2)
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