BIRTHSTONE
JANUARY
Garnet
Garnet is a remarkable gem in that it comes in all colors except blue. Its reds range from raspberry to blood-red. Its greens may rival that of emerald. It also occurs in a range of shades of yellow, orange and brown. You will be fascinated by the selection of color available.
Garnets offer enough variety in appearance to suit every taste, as well as an outstanding price range (especially for larger sizes) to suit every pocketbook.
Garnet is the accepted birthstone for the month of January. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the second year of marriage.
Legend holds that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. It reportedly also gives its wearer guidance in the night, protection from nightmares, and according to the Egyptians, is an antidote for snake bite and food poisoning. It was also thought to have a special affinity with the blood.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows, and avoid extreme temperature changes.
Garnets are found in the U.S., Africa, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and India.
Garnet
Garnet is a remarkable gem in that it comes in all colors except blue. Its reds range from raspberry to blood-red. Its greens may rival that of emerald. It also occurs in a range of shades of yellow, orange and brown. You will be fascinated by the selection of color available.
Garnets offer enough variety in appearance to suit every taste, as well as an outstanding price range (especially for larger sizes) to suit every pocketbook.
Garnet is the accepted birthstone for the month of January. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the second year of marriage.
Legend holds that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. It reportedly also gives its wearer guidance in the night, protection from nightmares, and according to the Egyptians, is an antidote for snake bite and food poisoning. It was also thought to have a special affinity with the blood.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows, and avoid extreme temperature changes.
Garnets are found in the U.S., Africa, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and India.
FEBRUARY
Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and comes in pale lilac to nearly black purple shades. Ideally, it is a deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes that give amethyst its beauty and fire.
Because of its abundance, it is readily available in all sizes and shapes. It is durable and can be worn every day. Coupled with the folk legend of the Greeks that it will prevent intoxication when worn, it becomes a most desirable gem! Amethyst is the recognized birthstone for February and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the sixth year of marriage.
Amethyst was said to have a sobering effect on the wearer—not only those who imbibed but those over-excited by love’s passion as well. It has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility. Some say it will prevent baldness and improve the complexion, while protection from treason and deceit. Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British Crown Jewels.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
As part of the finishing process, amethyst occasionally is heated to lighten its color.
It is found mainly in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia.
Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and comes in pale lilac to nearly black purple shades. Ideally, it is a deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes that give amethyst its beauty and fire.
Because of its abundance, it is readily available in all sizes and shapes. It is durable and can be worn every day. Coupled with the folk legend of the Greeks that it will prevent intoxication when worn, it becomes a most desirable gem! Amethyst is the recognized birthstone for February and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the sixth year of marriage.
Amethyst was said to have a sobering effect on the wearer—not only those who imbibed but those over-excited by love’s passion as well. It has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility. Some say it will prevent baldness and improve the complexion, while protection from treason and deceit. Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British Crown Jewels.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
As part of the finishing process, amethyst occasionally is heated to lighten its color.
It is found mainly in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia.
MARCH
Aquamarine
The ideal color of aquamarine is a refreshing sea blue; not too pale or too green. If you are looking for a big, durable gemstone, aqua is readily available in larger sizes and is truly dramatic when cut in rectangular or oval shapes. It is a member of the important beryl family, which also includes emerald.
Aquamarine is one of the traditional birthstones for March. It is also the accepted anniversary gem for the 19th year of marriage.
In ancient times, the stone was said to aid seafarers; thus it is an excellent gift suggestion for sailors or one who takes frequent cruises! To dream of aquamarine signifies the making of new friends; to wear aquamarine earrings brings love and affection. It is a universal symbol of youth, hope and health.
As part of the normal finishing process, most aquamarines are heated to remove traces of yellow and permanently intensify the blue color.
Aquamarine is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria and Zambia.
Aquamarine
The ideal color of aquamarine is a refreshing sea blue; not too pale or too green. If you are looking for a big, durable gemstone, aqua is readily available in larger sizes and is truly dramatic when cut in rectangular or oval shapes. It is a member of the important beryl family, which also includes emerald.
Aquamarine is one of the traditional birthstones for March. It is also the accepted anniversary gem for the 19th year of marriage.
In ancient times, the stone was said to aid seafarers; thus it is an excellent gift suggestion for sailors or one who takes frequent cruises! To dream of aquamarine signifies the making of new friends; to wear aquamarine earrings brings love and affection. It is a universal symbol of youth, hope and health.
As part of the normal finishing process, most aquamarines are heated to remove traces of yellow and permanently intensify the blue color.
Aquamarine is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria and Zambia.
APRIL
Diamond
The name "diamond" comes from the Greek word "adamas" meaning unconquerable – suggesting the eternity of love. In fact, diamonds have been the traditional symbol of love since ancient Greece. Discovered about 2,500 years ago in India, the ancients believed they were splinters from the stars, perhaps crystallized lightning or hardened dew drops.
Traditionally, the diamond is the accepted birthstone of April. And, besides being the most popular gemstone for engagement rings, is the accepted anniversary gem for the 10th and 60th years of marriage.
Although diamonds are associated with being a colorless stone, they are occasionally found with a strong, bright color – green, red, pink, blue, canary yellow and amber. These "fancy" color diamonds are highly prized.
Occasionally, to improve appearance, diamonds are laser-drilled and sometimes, a foreign substance is used to fill surface cavities or fractures. Diamonds may also be irradiated and/or heated to induce "fancy" colors.
Even though it is the most durable of gemstones, care should be taken to protect a diamond from sharp blows. To clean, you may use a jewelry cleaner, lukewarm soapy water and a small bristle brush, soak in a half-and-half solution of cold water and ammonia for ½ hour, or a home ultrasonic machine with its recommended cleaner.
Diamond
The name "diamond" comes from the Greek word "adamas" meaning unconquerable – suggesting the eternity of love. In fact, diamonds have been the traditional symbol of love since ancient Greece. Discovered about 2,500 years ago in India, the ancients believed they were splinters from the stars, perhaps crystallized lightning or hardened dew drops.
Traditionally, the diamond is the accepted birthstone of April. And, besides being the most popular gemstone for engagement rings, is the accepted anniversary gem for the 10th and 60th years of marriage.
Although diamonds are associated with being a colorless stone, they are occasionally found with a strong, bright color – green, red, pink, blue, canary yellow and amber. These "fancy" color diamonds are highly prized.
Occasionally, to improve appearance, diamonds are laser-drilled and sometimes, a foreign substance is used to fill surface cavities or fractures. Diamonds may also be irradiated and/or heated to induce "fancy" colors.
Even though it is the most durable of gemstones, care should be taken to protect a diamond from sharp blows. To clean, you may use a jewelry cleaner, lukewarm soapy water and a small bristle brush, soak in a half-and-half solution of cold water and ammonia for ½ hour, or a home ultrasonic machine with its recommended cleaner.
MAY
Emerald
Emerald is one of the most highly prized of all the gems. The name comes from the Greek "smaragdos" which means green stone. The most prized is the pure green or slightly bluish-green.
Emeralds are often characterized by a garden of included crystals trapped within. Under magnification, you will see all sorts of lovely patterns resembling foliage in a garden. A flawless, clear emerald is very rare and is usually found in only small sizes. Small to medium sized stones are often faceted in the "step" or emerald cut. The gem is also lovely when cut into cabochon or dome shape. Sometimes emeralds are even carved.
Emerald is the accepted birthstone for the month of May. It is also the anniversary gemstone for the 20th and 35th years of marriage.
According to legend, the wearing of emerald not only cured a wide range of ailment, including low I.Q., poor eyesight and infertility, but also enabled the wearer to predict the future.
As part of the normal fashioning process, most emeralds are immersed in colorless oil to fill minute voids.
Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals, and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine.
Emeralds are found mainly in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Emerald
Emerald is one of the most highly prized of all the gems. The name comes from the Greek "smaragdos" which means green stone. The most prized is the pure green or slightly bluish-green.
Emeralds are often characterized by a garden of included crystals trapped within. Under magnification, you will see all sorts of lovely patterns resembling foliage in a garden. A flawless, clear emerald is very rare and is usually found in only small sizes. Small to medium sized stones are often faceted in the "step" or emerald cut. The gem is also lovely when cut into cabochon or dome shape. Sometimes emeralds are even carved.
Emerald is the accepted birthstone for the month of May. It is also the anniversary gemstone for the 20th and 35th years of marriage.
According to legend, the wearing of emerald not only cured a wide range of ailment, including low I.Q., poor eyesight and infertility, but also enabled the wearer to predict the future.
As part of the normal fashioning process, most emeralds are immersed in colorless oil to fill minute voids.
Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals, and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine.
Emeralds are found mainly in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
JUNE
Pearl
A pearl is the product of an oyster’s defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster immediately surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone known as pearl.
Pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free from skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The higher the luster or "orient", the more valuable the specimen. The larger the pearl, the greater the value.
Pearl is the "official" birthstone of the month of June. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 3rd and 30th years of marriage.
Besides the popular round shape, there are stylish mabe (large hemispherical cultured pearls), fresh water (elongated in interesting shapes and colors), and South Sea (large cultured pearls 10mm and up from Australia’s and Indonesia’s waters), to name a few.
They have been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity. They have come to symbolize a happy marriage.
Different shades of colors may be achieved through bleaching, dyeing, chemicals combined with heat, or irradiation.
Avoid household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays and perfumes. Don’t use ultrasonic cleansers. Wash with mild soap and water and store in a protective chamois pouch or tissue.
Pearl
A pearl is the product of an oyster’s defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster immediately surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone known as pearl.
Pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free from skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The higher the luster or "orient", the more valuable the specimen. The larger the pearl, the greater the value.
Pearl is the "official" birthstone of the month of June. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 3rd and 30th years of marriage.
Besides the popular round shape, there are stylish mabe (large hemispherical cultured pearls), fresh water (elongated in interesting shapes and colors), and South Sea (large cultured pearls 10mm and up from Australia’s and Indonesia’s waters), to name a few.
They have been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity. They have come to symbolize a happy marriage.
Different shades of colors may be achieved through bleaching, dyeing, chemicals combined with heat, or irradiation.
Avoid household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays and perfumes. Don’t use ultrasonic cleansers. Wash with mild soap and water and store in a protective chamois pouch or tissue.
JULY
Ruby
Ruby is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and beauty. Derived from the Latin word "ruber," it simply means red. Ruby, like sapphire, is a variety of corundum and only exists as a true red in color. The finest color is vivid, almost pure spectral red with a very faint under tone of blue, as seen in the highest quality Burmese rubies, which are considered the finest.
Ruby is the accepted birthstone for July. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 40th years of marriage.
The highest quality rubies were said to protect their owners from all kinds of misfortune. A fine ruby assured the owner he would live in harmony with his neighbors. It would protect his stature in life, his home and land. Its protective powers were intensified when set in jewelry, and worn on the left side. Many believed rubies possessed an inner flame which burns eternally.
As part of the customary fashioning process, most rubies are heated to permanently improve their color and appearance.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
Many fine rubies emanate from Burma, having been mined there for more than 700 years. Other sources include Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India and Vietnam.
Ruby
Ruby is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and beauty. Derived from the Latin word "ruber," it simply means red. Ruby, like sapphire, is a variety of corundum and only exists as a true red in color. The finest color is vivid, almost pure spectral red with a very faint under tone of blue, as seen in the highest quality Burmese rubies, which are considered the finest.
Ruby is the accepted birthstone for July. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 40th years of marriage.
The highest quality rubies were said to protect their owners from all kinds of misfortune. A fine ruby assured the owner he would live in harmony with his neighbors. It would protect his stature in life, his home and land. Its protective powers were intensified when set in jewelry, and worn on the left side. Many believed rubies possessed an inner flame which burns eternally.
As part of the customary fashioning process, most rubies are heated to permanently improve their color and appearance.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
Many fine rubies emanate from Burma, having been mined there for more than 700 years. Other sources include Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India and Vietnam.
AUGUST
Peridot
Peridot is the child of volcanic action. Crystals are sometimes combed from the black sands of Hawaii.
Peridot is usually a lively lime green, although it can also have a brownish or olive cast.
Peridot is an accepted birthstone for August. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 16th year of marriage.
Peridots were favored by pirates, considered powerful amulets against evil, and when set in gold, were said to protect the wearer from the terrors of the night. They had medicinal uses, too. If fashioned into a chalice from which medicines were drunk, it intensified the effects of the drug.
Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for cleaning.
The peridot is abundant, and is available in larger sizes. It is found in Burma, the U.S. and Egypt.
Peridot
Peridot is the child of volcanic action. Crystals are sometimes combed from the black sands of Hawaii.
Peridot is usually a lively lime green, although it can also have a brownish or olive cast.
Peridot is an accepted birthstone for August. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 16th year of marriage.
Peridots were favored by pirates, considered powerful amulets against evil, and when set in gold, were said to protect the wearer from the terrors of the night. They had medicinal uses, too. If fashioned into a chalice from which medicines were drunk, it intensified the effects of the drug.
Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for cleaning.
The peridot is abundant, and is available in larger sizes. It is found in Burma, the U.S. and Egypt.
SEPTEMBER
Sapphire
Sapphire, a variety of corundum, comes in all colors except red ( the red variety being known as ruby ), but is especially popular in deep blue. Fancy colored sapphires – including pink, green, orange and golden yellow – are magnificent when combined in a necklace or bracelet.
Prince Charles chose a blue sapphire for Princess Diana’s engagement ring. The stone’s durability, combined with its beauty, makes it the perfect alternative for an engagement ring.
Sapphire is the September birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gem for the 5th and 45th years of marriage.
Ancient priests and sorcerers honored sapphire above all gems, for this stone enabled them to interpret oracles and foretell the future. Ancients believed the Ten Commandments were written on a sapphire tablet. Marriage partners put great faith in the stone. If its luster dimmed, one knew his or her spouse had been unfaithful. Sapphire refused to shine when worn by the wicked or impure.
As part of the customary fashioning process virtually all blue, yellow and golden sapphires are heated to permanently produce or intensify their color.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
Sapphire is found mainly in Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Australia and East Africa.
Sapphire
Sapphire, a variety of corundum, comes in all colors except red ( the red variety being known as ruby ), but is especially popular in deep blue. Fancy colored sapphires – including pink, green, orange and golden yellow – are magnificent when combined in a necklace or bracelet.
Prince Charles chose a blue sapphire for Princess Diana’s engagement ring. The stone’s durability, combined with its beauty, makes it the perfect alternative for an engagement ring.
Sapphire is the September birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gem for the 5th and 45th years of marriage.
Ancient priests and sorcerers honored sapphire above all gems, for this stone enabled them to interpret oracles and foretell the future. Ancients believed the Ten Commandments were written on a sapphire tablet. Marriage partners put great faith in the stone. If its luster dimmed, one knew his or her spouse had been unfaithful. Sapphire refused to shine when worn by the wicked or impure.
As part of the customary fashioning process virtually all blue, yellow and golden sapphires are heated to permanently produce or intensify their color.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
Sapphire is found mainly in Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Australia and East Africa.
OCTOBER
Opal
The well-known Roman naturalist Pliny described opal as "made up of the glories of the most precious gems…the gentler fire of the ruby, the rich purple of the amethyst, the sea-green of the emerald, glittering together…"
White opal has a white or light body color with flashes of many colors. Black opal has a black dark blue, dark green or gray body color with vivid flashes of color such as red, pink and bright green.
Opal is the October birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 14th year of marriage.
Opal has symbolized hope, innocence and purity through the ages. In the Middle Ages, young, fair-haired girls wore opals in their hair to protect its lovely blond color. Medieval writers believed opal could render its wearer invisible when the need arose. It was also said to have a beneficial effect on eyesight. It was thought to banish evil spirits and favor children, the theater, amusements, friendships and feelings.
Occasionally opal matrix is dyed to produce black and play of color. Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals, and extreme temperature changes. To maintain the brilliance of opal, it should be wiped clean with a soft cloth. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine or jewelry cleaner.
Opal sources are Australia, Mexico, and the U.S.
Opal
The well-known Roman naturalist Pliny described opal as "made up of the glories of the most precious gems…the gentler fire of the ruby, the rich purple of the amethyst, the sea-green of the emerald, glittering together…"
White opal has a white or light body color with flashes of many colors. Black opal has a black dark blue, dark green or gray body color with vivid flashes of color such as red, pink and bright green.
Opal is the October birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 14th year of marriage.
Opal has symbolized hope, innocence and purity through the ages. In the Middle Ages, young, fair-haired girls wore opals in their hair to protect its lovely blond color. Medieval writers believed opal could render its wearer invisible when the need arose. It was also said to have a beneficial effect on eyesight. It was thought to banish evil spirits and favor children, the theater, amusements, friendships and feelings.
Occasionally opal matrix is dyed to produce black and play of color. Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals, and extreme temperature changes. To maintain the brilliance of opal, it should be wiped clean with a soft cloth. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine or jewelry cleaner.
Opal sources are Australia, Mexico, and the U.S.
NOVEMBER
Topaz
Most people think of topaz as a transparent golden yellow gemstone. However, this gemstone is available in orange-yellow, red, honey-brown (dark sherry), light green, blue and pink.
The name topaz is derived from the Greek word "to shine" and also implies "fire." Orange-red "Imperial" topaz and pink colors are rare and most valuable.
Topaz is one of the accepted birthstones for November. Blue topaz is the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 4th year; Imperial topaz for the 23rd year of marriage.
The lore, magic and romance of topaz goes back many thousands of years. It holds the distinction of being the gemstone with the widest range of curative powers. The Greeks felt it gave them strength. In addition, it supposedly cooled tempers, restored sanity, cured asthma, relieved insomnia and even warded off sudden death. Topaz is said to make its wearer invisible in times of emergency. It proved the loyalty of associates by changing color in the presence of poison.
As part of the normal fashion process, most brownish to sherry brown topaz are heated to produce a permanent pink color. Certain types of topaz are irradiated and heated to produce shades of blue. Avoid sharp blows, intense heat and strong light.
Topaz is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria and Sri Lanka.
Topaz
Most people think of topaz as a transparent golden yellow gemstone. However, this gemstone is available in orange-yellow, red, honey-brown (dark sherry), light green, blue and pink.
The name topaz is derived from the Greek word "to shine" and also implies "fire." Orange-red "Imperial" topaz and pink colors are rare and most valuable.
Topaz is one of the accepted birthstones for November. Blue topaz is the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 4th year; Imperial topaz for the 23rd year of marriage.
The lore, magic and romance of topaz goes back many thousands of years. It holds the distinction of being the gemstone with the widest range of curative powers. The Greeks felt it gave them strength. In addition, it supposedly cooled tempers, restored sanity, cured asthma, relieved insomnia and even warded off sudden death. Topaz is said to make its wearer invisible in times of emergency. It proved the loyalty of associates by changing color in the presence of poison.
As part of the normal fashion process, most brownish to sherry brown topaz are heated to produce a permanent pink color. Certain types of topaz are irradiated and heated to produce shades of blue. Avoid sharp blows, intense heat and strong light.
Topaz is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria and Sri Lanka.
December
Zircon
Zircon comes in a wide variety of colors – blue, green, yellow, orange, red and brown, in addition to colorless. Zircon is prized for its brilliance and fire as well as being a very "clean" stone, displaying very few inclusion.
The yellow "hyacinth" zircon was associated with the zodiac sign of Leo, thus with lions and courage. Rare red zircon was said to be the cure for all insomnia. From ancient times through the Middle Ages, a zircon was considered a must for travelers because it was a powerful protection against wounds and plagues. It was also said to increase its wearer’s riches because it gave him wisdom with which to conduct his finances. Someone bewitched by evil spirits was encouraged to rub zircon over a cross cut into a fresh-baked loaf of bread, recite a chant, and eat the bread. The spell would soon vanish.
Zircon is one of the accepted birthstones for December.
To clean, immerse in a jewelry cleaner or in lukewarm soapy water and use a small bristle brush. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine. Avoid abrasives and extreme temperature changes.
As part of the customary fashioning process, various shades of brown zircons are heated to produce colorless stones or beautiful shades of blue and red.
Zircons are found today in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Cambodia.
Zircon
Zircon comes in a wide variety of colors – blue, green, yellow, orange, red and brown, in addition to colorless. Zircon is prized for its brilliance and fire as well as being a very "clean" stone, displaying very few inclusion.
The yellow "hyacinth" zircon was associated with the zodiac sign of Leo, thus with lions and courage. Rare red zircon was said to be the cure for all insomnia. From ancient times through the Middle Ages, a zircon was considered a must for travelers because it was a powerful protection against wounds and plagues. It was also said to increase its wearer’s riches because it gave him wisdom with which to conduct his finances. Someone bewitched by evil spirits was encouraged to rub zircon over a cross cut into a fresh-baked loaf of bread, recite a chant, and eat the bread. The spell would soon vanish.
Zircon is one of the accepted birthstones for December.
To clean, immerse in a jewelry cleaner or in lukewarm soapy water and use a small bristle brush. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine. Avoid abrasives and extreme temperature changes.
As part of the customary fashioning process, various shades of brown zircons are heated to produce colorless stones or beautiful shades of blue and red.
Zircons are found today in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Cambodia.
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