Birthstones have always been an interesting conversation starter. Whether we believe in its metaphysical powers or not, we often find ourselves welcoming these unique stones as a part of our newly discovered identities. But how exactly did this trend start?
According to ancient scholars, birthstones actually date all the way back to the first century.
The scriptures in the book of Exodus 28 in the Bible describe Moses setting forth a series of directions in regards to making a special ceremonial garment for the High Priest of the Hebrews, Aaron. This particular garment was to feature a breastplate, adorned with 12 precious gemstones to represent each of the 12 tribes of Israel. These featured stones were what we believe to be: Carnelian, Chrysolite, Emerald, Turquoise, Sapphire, Amethyst, Jacinth, Agate, Crystal, Beryl, Lapis Lazuli and Jasper.
It wasn’t until about 500 years later that the coincidence of there being exactly 12 stones was realised. This introduced some theories about whether these 12 stones could have been in reference to the 12 signs of the zodiac.
The possibility of there being a celestial connection to these stones instigated the belief that these stones may hold special metaphysical powers, with many wearers choosing to wear each stone during their respective months to heighten its protective powers.
Today, modern translations of the birthstone list have little to do with the High Priest’s breastplate or religion at all. But in an effort to introduce a standardised understanding of birthstones throughout the jewellery industry, the National Association of Jewellers (USA) developed the current birthstone list we know today which has each of the 12 stones corresponding with the 12 months in the Gregorian calendar.
As you may know, some months have more than one birthstone assigned to them. This is actually due to accessibility and affordability reasons in an effort to make birthstones available to everyone!
Click on the stones below to find out what metaphysical powers may be inhabiting them:
January (Capricorn/Aquarius): Garnet
February (Aquarius/Pisces): Amethyst
March (Pisces/Aries): Aquamarine
April (Aries/Taurus): Diamond (Herkimer Diamond, Clear Quartz)
May (Taurus/Gemini): Emerald (Carnelian)
June (Gemini/Cancer): Pearl (Alexandrite, Moonstone)
September (Virgo/Libra): Sapphire
October (Libra/Scorpio): Opal (Tourmaline)
November (Scorpio/Sagittarius): Topaz (Citrine)
December (Sagittarius/Capricorn): Turquoise (Tanzanite)
Birthstones are an effortless gift for those special in your life; They are thoughtful, personal, yet facile. At Made in Earth, we offer a large selection of delicate layering pieces, making it easy for anyone to incorporate this special sentimental piece to their own unique style.
Now that you have found your birthstone, we encourage you to take a closer look at our beautiful birthstone collection and begin building your very own collection at home!
