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Gemstones are beautifully exquisite mineral crystals ranging in a variety of stunning colours and are used to form charming pieces of jewellery. Early myths of gemstones date back to the Bible which suggested that the twelve gemstones were part of a special breastplate designed for Aaron, the High Priest of Hebrews, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The twelve gemstones have also been linked to the twelve signs of Zodiac.

Today, each month of the year has a particular gemstone associated with it, which is why these gemstones are frequently referred to as birthstones, and are often given as presents usually in the form of a jewellery for people’s birthdays. It is also believed that the birthstone corresponding to a particular month also carries certain unique and mysterious qualities, for instance healing powers or luck.

Trend Alert: Birthstone of the Month Jewellery - The Clothes Maiden

JanuaryGarnet symbolises friendship, faith, love and constancy which makes this gemstone a sentimental gift for a good friend. This gem ranging from a bright red to a deeper maroon and burgundy colour also provides guidance and willpower. Heritage Gemset Jewellery consider that this would be the perfect gemstone to give to someone who is perhaps going travelling or starting a new adventure in their life.

February – Amethyst, a stunning gemstone ranging from lighter lilac tones to deep purples has been said to provide the wearer with courage and help to remain clear-headed. The gem may also strengthen relationships but also provide comforting qualities.

March – Aquamarine, derived form the Latin word ‘water’, this gem was believed to protect sailors and ensure that they had a safe journey. The colour truly reflects the qualities of the stone as it will help the wearer to remain cool, calm and rational.

April – Diamonds are most associated with eternal love, therefore are a great gift idea for a loved one. Diamonds may also bring courage, and although the white diamond is most common, they also available in a variety of other magnificent colours.   

May – Emeralds, one of the rarest gemstones, are a rich beautiful green colour. As May is part of the Spring season, emeralds symbolise the renewal of life, birth, fertility and love, making this stone the perfect present for anyone expecting a child. Today, Emerald’s have also been thought to help encourage wisdom and growth.   

June – Pearls are a very popular jewellery due to their natural beauty which have been prevalent for centuries, and are most commonly associated with purity and marriage. Alexandrite gemstones also belong to June and are considered to be quite rare. The colours of the stone change depending on the lighting and are thought to help inspire creativity and increase intuition.

July – Rubies, this gemstone was considered to be the ‘King of gems’ by ancient Hindus. The intensely rich and deep pink to red colour symbolizes love and passion, but is also believed to assist with strength and nobility, as well as helping to protect the wearer of evilness.

August – Peridot, a refreshing olive green gemstone is thought to contain magical powers to bring luck and strength to the wearer, but to also protect them from nightmares and ward off evil. Some believe that the green peridot crystals created inside the Earth and brought to the surface by volcanos signify the tears of Pele, the Goddess of fire and volcanoes.

September – Sapphire, this beautiful deep blue birthstone was considered in the middle ages to help protect and keep you and your loved one’s safe, therefore would be the perfect gemstone to give to a family member or close friend. Other qualities such as loyalty, wisdom, faith and dignity are also associated with sapphires.

October – Tourmaline is a special gemstone which is found in a variety of colours, but can also magically display more than one colour in the same stone. Opal is the second birthstone of October, reflecting several colours including blues, greens, whites and pinks and can help to increase confidence and faithfulness, as well as protecting the wearer from harm.

November – Topaz is considered to be a gift from the sun which is reflected in the golden glow of the gemstone, and helps to give the wearer good mental health, strength and intellect. Citrine, being the French word for lemon is November’s second birthstone and holds values of health, youth, strength and hope.

December – Turquoise, sometimes known as the ‘love charm’ helps to provide happiness, success and good fortune. Zircon has been said to promote honour, wisdom and similarly to Turquoise, prosperity. Tanzanite is named after Tanzania, being the only place in the world where this gem has been found. This indulging velvety violet-blue stone aids the wearer with better vision as well as a special pathway to the spiritual realm. Furthermore tanzanite is believed to increase compassion and tranquillity in both the wearer and people surrounding them.

Avery Parker