Where Do Birthstones Come From?
Birthstones have become a normal part of most people’s lives-- it’s incredibly common to know what your birthstone is, and most people probably have some kind of jewelry that has their birthstone in it. But have you ever wondered how the birthstone trend started?
History of Birthstones
As it turns out, our modern idea of birthstones (Garnet for January, Amethyst for February, Aquamarine for March, etc.) has existed since 1912. However, the tradition of birthstones can be traced all the way back to the biblical book of Exodus with the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment that held 12 gemstones to represent the 12 tribes of Israel.
In the 1st century, there was a connection made between these 12 stones and the 12 zodiac signs. Within a few centuries, it began to be believed that everyone should own one of each gemstone and wear the appropriate one during the ascendance of its corresponding signs. The transition between this idea of zodiac stones and birthstones supposedly began in 18th century Poland, when Jewish gem traders arrived in the region.
Of course, these gemstones are no longer associated with magical powers or astrology, for the most part. Now, birthstones are worn to represent love, whether it be of yourself, your family, your friends, etc. in rings, bracelets, and many other kinds of jewelry.
How Were the Birthstones Picked?
Each birthstone represents something different.
January: Garnet represents safety, especially while traveling
February: Amethyst represents courage.
March: Aquamarine is associated with healing powers.
April: Diamonds are a symbol of love.
May: Emeralds are also a symbol of love.
June: Pearls represent purity.
July: The Ruby was believed to ward off evil in ancient times.
August: The Peridot represents strength.
September: Sapphire was also thought to protect against evil, especially poisoning.
October: Opal represents faithfulness and confidence.
November: Topaz is associated with love and affection.
December: Turquoise is said to symbolize luck and success.
However, the birthstones have changed over the past few centuries, and rather than corresponding to the zodiac signs, they’ve most likely been picked by jewelers in order to sell more of certain gemstones. Here are the birthstones associated with the zodiac signs:
Aries: March 21-April 19-- Bloodstone
Taurus: April 20-May 20-- Sapphire
Gemini: May 21-June 21-- Agate
Cancer: June 22-July 22-- Emerald
Leo: July 23-August 22-- Onyx
Virgo: August 23-September 22-- Carnelian
Libra: September 23-October 23-- Peridot
Scorpio: October 24-November 21-- Emerald or Aquamarine
Sagittarius: November 22-December 21-- Topaz
Capricorn: December 22-January 19-- Ruby
Aquarius: January 20-February 18-- Garnet
Pisces: February 19-March 20-- Amethyst
Now that you’ve learned a little about the history of birthstones, you might be interested in getting your own birthstone jewelry! If you are, head over to Ohio Gem Lab to customize your birthstone jewelry, today-- whether you’re going by your birth month or zodiac sign!
