Birthstones

Each month has a gemstone assigned to it, I am often asked the months birthstones. It's great trivia to know for a pub quiz and it's a popular gift idea for men or women. 

January : Garnet

February : Amethyst 

March : Aquamarine

April : Diamond

May : Emerald

June : Pearl 

July : Ruby

August : Peridot

September : Sapphire 

October : Opal

November : Topaz

December : Tanzanite

History of the Birthstone

The idea of birthstones dates back to the bible and perhaps even further than that. Birthstones have featured in many different cultures, customs and religions.

Astrologers attributed one gemstone to each month of the year, as well as a zodiac sign. It was thought that each gemstone would bring protection to those born into its month. The gemstone was thought to bring healing powers and protections from evils. 

In the 15th century in Poland it was very popular to own all 12 of the birthstones and to wear each one for the whole of its month for protections, irrespective of your own birth month. Today it is usual to wear your own birthstone and at anytime of the year. 

Alternative Birthstones

You may see some alternative birthstone ideas when shopping around, these are offered as ideas as some stones on the list can be harder to source than others. 

What do you do if your birthstone is not in your price range or you can't find a design you love? You could look for an alternative yourself, for example; Aprils birthstone is diamond, you could look at a white cubic zirconia, moissanite, white sapphire, white topaz etc they will have a strong resemblance. 

The main thing with jewellery is to pick something you absolutely love and will enjoy wearing for a long time to come. Find something that speaks to you, irrespective of the gemstone.