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Birthstones have been linked to our dates of birth for centuries. Many cultures originally assigned a specific gemstone to signify birth during each sign of the zodiac, but over time the tradition shifted until it became common for a single gem to represent each month of the year.

Different cultures chose unique sets of twelve stones. The folklore attached to stones differed from one group of people to another, but they all shared the belief that wearing your birthstone brought good luck.

Birthstone jewelry is as popular today as it ever was, and it’s plentiful — we can choose from an endless selection of jewelry set with our own special gem.

January Birthstone – Garnet

 

Garnet Color
Garnets used in birthstone jewelry are usually deep red, but the gemstones are found in nearly every color except blue.

Garnet Folklore
Red garnets have long been associated with blood purification. They were believed to protect against food poisoning, snake bite, and hemorrhage.

February Birthstone – Amethyst

 

Amethyst Color
Amethyst is a form of quartz. Its color varies from pale lilac to dark purple.

Amethyst Folklore
Amethyst was believed to help protect the wearer from becoming intoxicated. The gemstone is widely known as a symbol of peace and tranquility.

March Birthstone – Aquamarine

 

Aquamarine Color
Aquamarine exists in all shades of blue. Clear blue aquamarine is more valuable than stones with traces of other colors.

Aquamarine Folklore
Aquamarine is said to protect sailors while they are at sea. The gems were also worn to prevent seasickness and other types of stomach ailments.

April Birthstone – Diamond

Diamond Color
Diamonds are the most durable substance on earth. Most are colorless, but colored variations are growing more popular every year.

Diamond Folklore
Some ancient cultures associated diamonds with lighting bolts, believing they were formed when lightning struck the earth. They are a symbol of courage and true love.

May Birthstone – Emerald

 

Emerald Color
Emeralds vary from light to dark green, and most are embedded with bits of other substances. Perfectly clear emeralds are rare and very expensive, so it is not uncommon for emeralds to be treated in some way to enhance their appearance.

Emerald Folklore
Some cultures believed that emeralds gave the wearer psychic powers. They were thought to improve both eyesight and fertility.

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