Written by Naomi Shaw
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
Popular, elegant, and unique, birthstones make a beautiful gift for just about any occasion. Part of a tradition that goes back to ancient times, birthstone gifts are reputed to bring luck, prosperity, and healing to the wearer. If you are giving a birthstone as a gift for the first time, keep the following guide in mind as you shop.
Birthstones by Month
Standardized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, each month of the year has its own birthstone. Ranging in colors and properties, these stones all boast a plethora of unique attributes. The following is the current internationally accepted list of birthstones by month:
January: Garnet
February: Amethyst
March: Aquamarine
April: Diamond
May: Emerald
June: Pearl/Alexandrite
July: Ruby
August: Peridot
September: Sapphire
October: Tourmaline/Opal
November: Topaz/Citrine
December: Tanzanite/Zircon/Turquoise
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
The History of Birthstones
Thought to date back to the 12 gemstones that once represented the 12 tribes of Israel, birthstones have a long and rich history. The book of Exodus describes the Breastplate of Aaron as a garment set with sardius, topaz,carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, ligure, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. These 12 stones were later connected to the 12 signs of the zodiac, an idea that ultimately evolved into the concept of birthstones that we understand today. Although scholars attribute the origin of birthstones to Aaron’s breastplate, similar concepts have cropped up in cultures throughout history, with many societies considering certain stones to have properties that set them above and apart from other gems.
When to Give a Birthstone
Birthstones can be given on a wide variety of occasions, making great mother’s day, Christmas, anniversary, and birthday gifts alike. If you are on a tight budget and can’t afford a genuine gemstone, there are some great lab-created alternatives available. Aesthetically, your family member or significant other most likely won’t be able to tell the difference. If you want to give a birthstone as a gift, but aren’t a huge fan of the colour of the stone, don’t be afraid to branch out a little from tradition. A garnet, for example, does not necessarily have to be red. Garnets, like many other gemstones, come in a wide range of colours–including pink, green, orange, and black.
Unique Birthstone Gifts
There’s no limit to the number of unique ways in which a birthstone can be given. For parents, how about a personalized family ring? Crafted from gold, platinum, or silver, personalized family trees incorporate the birthstone of each included family member. Alternatively, handcrafted jewelry is always a great way to go–think an opal bracelet for an October baby, featuring 5 different opal varieties. Birthstones can also be set into watches, jewelry boxes, ceramics, and art.
No matter how you give a birthstone, it’s sure to be an appreciated and treasured gift. As you search for the perfect piece, try to keep in mind the personal preferences of your family member, friend, or significant other. Do they like natural stones, or treated ones? Do they have a favourite color? Are they a “bling” fan, or do they prefer subtle jewellery? If you aren’t sure what they like, just have fun with it!