Birthstone Jewelry – It’s Origins and History
Since the 1st century particular gemstones have been associated with the zodiac signs and have been used in birthstone jewelry. Initially birthstone systems were based on the individual color of the stones. The beginnings of the custom are thought to be associated with the Breastplate of Aaron which incorporated stones associated with the twelve tribes of Israel. Every gem had the name of the tribe inscribed on it and they were sewn into the breastplate in 4 rows of 3. Although the names of the gems used are well known, the correct translation is debatable so the particular gemstones that were used are not known. This has led to various stones being associated with the different signs of the zodiac.
In later times birthstones became associated with the months of the year rather than the twelve signs of the zodiac and there’s been a good deal of divergence in the month to which a stone is assigned. The most widely used system nowadays is the one which was put forward by the Association of Jewelers in America in 1912, and has some alternatives to the costlier gemstones. One gemstone has been added since that time. Tanzanite was added as a birthstone for December in 2002 by the American Gem Association though it is not accepted by everybody.
Alternative schemes which correlate specific stones with the month of birth include mystical birthstones and Ayurvedic birthstones. The mystical birthstones listing is thought to date to over ten centuries ago and is from Tibet, the Ayurvedic system is from ancient Indian medicine and philosophy and originated around 1500 BC. Nevertheless the majority use the modern schemes put forward by the Association of Jewelers.
Contemporary List
- January – emerald, garnet
- February – amethyst
- March – aquamarine
- April – diamond
- May – emerald
- June – pearl, moonstone
- July – ruby
- August – peridot
- September – sapphire
- October – tourmaline, opal
- November – topaz, citrine
- December – tanzanite, topaz, turquiose
Therefore there are a number of options to select from. If you don’t like your birthstone from the contemporary system, choose one from the traditional scheme.There are gorgeous examples of gold birthstone jewelry in the shops and they make brilliant birthday gifts for loved ones, that demonstrate the thought we have put into picking a gift that is just right for them. Read more at Birthstone Jewelry.
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