Birthstone  Guide 

A birthstone is a precious or semi-precious gemstone which symbolizes the birth month of a person and, some believe, reflects the qualities and traits of individuals born during any particular month. 

The tradition of birthstones dates to the first century but it was in 15^th century Poland that the concept of wearing birthstones began to gain popularity.  During that time it was believed that a person should not wear his own birthstone solely, but also every birthstone during its corresponding month, so as to maximize the power of the birthstones.  In order to realize the full potential of the year’s 12 birthstones, a person would have to have a full set of birthstones and rotate their wear as the months changed.

Today, birthstone jewelry remains popular and birthstone jewelry is oftentimes the first piece of ‘serious’ jewelry received by a young woman.  Birthstone jewelry can consist of precious or semi-precious gemstones or colored Austrian crystal.  Indeed, modern day birthstones bounce back and forth between precious and semiprecious gemstones, depending on the month.

Month		Birthstone	Birthstone Attributes
January		Garnet	Brings friendship, loyalty, sincerity.  Good health and safe travels.
February		Amethyst	Brings peace of mind, prevents drunkenness.  Drives away worry.
March		Aquamarine or Bloodstone	Brings a sense of youth and hope.  Protect health.  Appropriate stone for sea lovers.
April		Diamond	Strengthens body and soul, brings out the best qualities and protects innocence.
May		Emerald	Brings fertility and joy and sharpens the mind.
June		Pearl or Moonstone	Embodies modesty and purity.
July		Ruby	Represents vigor and passion and brings fortune and love and protects from unfriendly forces.
August		Peridot or Sardonyx	Brings friendship, alleviates envy, wards off depression and fear.  Helps in gaining inspiration.
September		Sapphire	Clears the mind and relaxes.  Protects from fraud, envy and poor health.
October		Opal or Pink Tourmaline	Ensures fidelity, brings confidence, sharpens the mind and emotions.
November		Citrine or Yellow Topaz	Brings lightheartedness and hope.  Relaxes the body and cleanses it of toxins.
December		Blue Topaz or Turquoise	Brings a pleasant disposition and patient attitude.  A symbol of love and fidelity.