Birth Stone Guide
Garnet
Colour: Red is the most traditional colour of Garnet
Birth Stone: January
History: The name Garnet derived from the Latin word ‘Granatum’, meaning pomegranate, for its resemblance to the seed. According to Ancient folklore, a large garnet provided the only light on Noah’s Ark. The garnet dates back as far as the Bronze Age and was held in high esteem by many civilisations, for both sacred and protective beliefs.
Beliefs: Garnet is thought to assure the wearer of love, health, faithfulness and energy. It is considered a great gift to symbolise friendship and trust.
Amethyst
Colour: Purple.
Birth Stone: February
History: The word amethyst comes from the Greek ‘ametusthos’, meaning “not intoxicated,” and was considered to ensure a balanced mind. In ancient times, it was the known as the “Gem of Fire,” and as precious as a Diamond. It is the stone of St. Valentine and carries the energy of fire and passion. yet as the Bishop’s stone, it bears the logic of humility and sobriety.
Beliefs: Amethyst has many powers but is best known to soothe and stimulate emotions. It is associated with spirituality, wisdom, sobriety, and security.
Aquamarine
Colour: Blue
Birth Stone: March
History: The name derives from the Latin ‘aqua marinus,’ meaning "water of the sea. Aquamarine was believed to be the treasure of mermaids, and was used by sailors as a talisman of good luck, fearlessness and protection. Used by the Romans to purify water and also considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness.
Beliefs: Said to symbolise youth, self-expression, hope and courage.
Rock Crystal (Clear Quartz)
Colour: Clear
Birth Stone: April
History: Rock Crystal derives from the Greek word "krystallos", meaning "ice", because crystal was believed to be water frozen so hard it could never thaw. Known as the ‘Perfect Jewel,’ the six-sided prisms of light and energy contain the entire colour spectrum. Believed to be the supreme gift of Mother Earth, and a key source of light to Mankind.
Beliefs: Believed to increase energy, improve self-respect and encouraging purity of heart, peace and clam, thus promoting happiness.
Emerald
Colour: Green
Birth Stone: May
History: According to Indian lore, the name Emerald was first translated from Sanskrit as Marakata, meaning “the green of growing things.” In French it became ‘Esmeraude’ and in Latin ‘Esmaraldus’, meaning ‘green stone’. The Emerald spans back 4000 yrs to Babylon, the ‘cradle of civilisation’. It was dedicated in the ancient world to the goddess Venus for its ability to insure security in love.
Beliefs: Called the “Stone of Successful Love,” the Emerald opens and nurtures the heart and symbolises contentment and loyalty. It represents healing and fertility and also encourages growth, reflection, peace and balance.
Moonstone
Colour: Opaque to transparent white/grey, with an effervescent like glow.
Birth Stone: June
History: Named for its moon-like sheen. The ancient Greeks called Moonstone "Aphroselene" after the goddesses Aphrodite (love) and Selene (moon). It is considered a sacred stone in India, and still used as a traditional wedding gift. Ancient folklore considered the Moonstone to be the Traveler's Stone, especially protective of those who travelled by night or upon the water when the moon shone.
Beliefs: A stone for “new beginnings”, Moonstone is considered a symbol of new love. It promotes emotional stability, health and longevity.
Ruby
Colour: Red
Birth Stone: July
History: In ancient India, the ruby was considered to be the ‘King of gems’. Ancient hindus offered them to their god, Krisha, in the believe that they would be reborn as an Emperor. Dreaming of rubies was believed to indicate success and prosperity.
Beliefs: The ruby is associated with love and harmony, protection, contentment, success, integrity and strength.
Peridot
Colour: Vibrant lime green
Birth Stone: August
History: Peridot derives from the Arabic word, “faridat” meaning ‘gem’. Once considered more valuable than diamonds, the Romans wore them as protection from enchantment, melancholy, and nightmares.
Beliefs: Peridot is believed to instil power and influence. It is a healing stone and so aids digestion and insomnia, balances the mind and calms emotional storms.
Sapphire
Colour: A ray of colours including Pink, yellow, green, but best known in it’s rich blue colour.
Birth Stone: September
History: The name Sapphire derives from the Greek “sappheiros”, which means blue. It is considered regal and sacred and worn for good luck by Kings and Queens. In the Middle Ages the gem was believed to protect those close to you from harm and Bishops believed it symbolised heaven.
Beliefs: Represents loyalty and trust. Thought to promote purity of emotions serenity, joy and peace, and opens the mind to love.
Tourmaline
Colour: Available in a rainbow of beautiful colours but best known for its mix of red, pink and green colours.
Birth Stone: October
History: Tourmaline originates from the Singhalese term “turamali”, which means “stone of mixed colours.” It is historically referred to as a “magic” stone that is capable of protecting whoever wore it.
Beliefs: Tourmaline is believed to boost vitality and physical strength, and promote a healthy mood. A gift of this stone is symbolic of hope.
Citrine
Colour: Yellow.
Birth Stone: Citrine
History: “Citrine” derives from the French word, “Citron,” meaning “lemon”. Citrineis believed to radiate positive energy. It is known as the 'success stone’ or the ‘Merchant’s stone’, since it is thought to attract wealth and prosperity, success and all things good. It also encourages generosity and the sharing ofgood fortune.
Beliefs: Citrine is said to be a gift from the sun and is uplifting, warm, and invigorating. It is believed to dissipate negative energy and increase self-esteem.
Turquoise
Colour: Opaque blue/green
Birth Stone: December
History: Turquoise is a French term “pierre turquoise” meaning Turkish Stone ("pierre" translates as “stone”). For centuries, turquoise was considered a highly esteemed gem. The Aztecs considered it more valuable than gold. As one of the earliest stones mined, turquoise was used as an amulet for protection and symbolised wealth in ancient cultures.
Beliefs: Believed to protect from harm and negative energy, Turquoise signifies good fortune, happiness, peace and patience. It is a symbol of friendship.