BY TABATHA RENEGAR

From our very early birthdays, we know what our birthstones are. But did you know that birthstones may have originated in the bible? The following passage from Exodus 28:17-20 is often cited as proof of this:

“There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.”

Biblical or not, birthstones make a natural “go to” jewelry gift for sisters, moms, wives and girlfriends (guys, well… not so much but the colors can still be a good reference). The next time you choose a birthstone gift, how about adding a little note with it that tells the recipient about the meaning of the stone you’ve chosen for them?

January Birthstone: Garnet

A symbol of faith, love and constancy, this deep red stone might even prevent nightmares and keep the wearer safe when traveling!

February Birthstone: Amethyst

From the Greek word amethystos which means “sober,” the purple amethyst represents peace, temperance, serenity and royalty.

March Birthstone: Aquamarine

When you see the pale blue aquamarine, it’s hard to deny its calming nature. The lovely aquamarine symbolizes creativity, hope, and courage.

April Birthstone: Diamond

Lucky is the recipient of an April birthstone gift! Symbolizing everlasting love, diamonds are considered the pure representation of true love, strength and romance.

May Birthstone: Emerald

Dedicated to Venus, the Goddess of love and beauty by the ancient Romans, the deep, green emerald represents wisdom, growth and patience.

June Birthstone: Pearl

The ancient Greeks claimed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy, shed by Aphrodite! Perhaps for this reason, they symbolize purity and chastity, and are said to help ensure a happy marriage.

July Birthstone: Ruby

Another red stone with a bit more shine than the garnet, rubies are believed to be tokens of harmony and peace. Hindus even believe that a ruby could protect the wearer from evil!

August Birthstone: Peridot.

Sometimes called the “evening emerald” for its soothing, light green color, the peridot symbolizes strength and can help to ward off negativity and depression.

September Birthstone: Sapphire

Traditionally a favorite stone of priests and kings, the sapphire symbolizes purity and wisdom. They also symbolize dignity, loyalty, serenity and faith.

October Birthstone: Opal

From the Latin word “opalus,” meaning precious jewel, the luminescent opal symbolizes faithfulness and confidence. As an interesting side note, legend has it that opals can only be kept by those whose birth it represents. So, if you try to buy yourself an opal and you don’t celebrate your birthday in October, don’t get too attached!

November Birthstone: Topaz

Whether you choose a deep, gold version or bright, sunshiny yellow, the topaz symbolizes love and affection and can increase strength and intellect for the wearer. Topaz is also believed to discourage negative emotions.

December Birthstone: Turquoise

Turquoise has been traditionally regarded as a love charm. It is also a symbol of good fortune and success, and it is believed to relax the mind and to protect its wearer from harm.