The practice of associating gemstones with specific months, and thus with individual birthdays, has a long and fascinating history. Today, this tradition manifests in many forms, including the increasingly popular birthstone ornament. These ornaments, particularly those crafted by Precious Moments, offer a unique blend of sentimentality, artistry, and the enduring appeal of gemstones. This article will explore the significance of birthstone ornaments, focusing on their role within the Precious Moments collection, their historical context, and the enduring symbolism they represent.
A Tradition of Personalization
Birthstone ornaments represent a contemporary extension of a tradition rooted in ancient beliefs. The idea of assigning specific stones to months dates back to the breastplate of Aaron in the Old Testament, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations evolved, with different cultures attributing various powers and meanings to each stone. The modern birthstone list, while standardized relatively recently, continues to hold cultural significance, offering a personalized connection to the month of one’s birth.
The appeal of birthstone ornaments lies in this personalization. They are not merely decorative items; they are tangible representations of individual identity and cherished moments. As highlighted by several sources, these ornaments are designed to “remind us of our beauty, elegance, and personal significance,” becoming “cherished keepsakes.” The addition of personalization, such as engraving a name, further enhances this sentiment, transforming the ornament into a truly unique and meaningful gift.
Precious Moments and the Celebration of Life
The Precious Moments brand, known for its endearing figurines and heartfelt messages, has embraced the birthstone ornament as a natural extension of its core values. Founded on principles of authenticity and craftsmanship, Precious Moments aims to offer jewelry that “tells a story.” The brand’s philosophy centers on connecting individuals to the deeper meaning behind each gemstone, elevating the ornament from a simple decoration to a celebration of life’s unique moments.
The Precious Moments collection features a “Little Moments” series specifically dedicated to birthstones. These figurines, often depicting charming scenes and characters, incorporate jeweled accents representing the corresponding birthstone for each month. The ornaments are designed for year-round display, serving as “meaningful additions to any home décor” and potential “heirlooms passed down for generations.” The brand’s commitment to quality and ethical sourcing further enhances the value and significance of these ornaments.
Ornament Varieties and Collectibility
The provided sources indicate a diverse range of Precious Moments ornaments available for purchase, extending beyond the birthstone-specific “Little Moments” series. A sales board lists numerous ornaments from various years, showcasing a wide array of themes and characters. These include Christmas-themed ornaments, depictions of animals, and figurines conveying inspirational messages.
The collectibility of Precious Moments ornaments is also evident. The sales board details asking prices ranging from $15.00 to $25.00, suggesting a secondary market for these items. Specific ornaments, such as “Bear The Good News Of Christmas” (1987) and “Glide Through The Holidays” (1990), are listed with individual prices, indicating varying levels of demand and rarity. This collectibility adds another layer of value to the birthstone ornaments, making them appealing to both gift-givers and collectors.
Ornament Specifications and Materials
The birthstone ornaments described in the sources are typically constructed from glass and feature jeweled accents. They measure approximately 3” in diameter and are suspended by a gold ribbon for hanging. The ornaments are designed for standard shipping within the 48 contiguous United States, with restrictions on delivery to P.O. Boxes, APO/FPO addresses, and foreign locations.
The materials used in the construction of these ornaments – glass and jeweled accents – contribute to their aesthetic appeal and perceived value. The glass provides a clear medium for displaying the jeweled birthstone, while the gold ribbon adds a touch of elegance. The combination of these materials creates a visually appealing ornament suitable for a variety of decorative settings.
Birthstones as Symbols and Good Luck Charms
The enduring popularity of birthstones stems from the belief that they possess inherent powers and symbolic meanings. According to the sources, birthstones are considered “the ultimate good luck charm.” While the specific meanings associated with each birthstone vary across cultures and traditions, they generally represent qualities such as love, health, prosperity, and protection.
The act of gifting a birthstone ornament, therefore, is not merely a gesture of affection; it is an expression of hope for the recipient’s well-being and happiness. The ornament serves as a constant reminder of the giver’s love and support, and the symbolic meaning of the birthstone adds an extra layer of significance to the gift.
Purchasing and Availability
Birthstone ornaments are readily available through various retailers, including Birthstone.com and Lillian Vernon. Birthstone.com offers a curated selection of fine jewelry, emphasizing the symbolic beauty of birthstones and providing educational resources to enhance the shopping experience. Lillian Vernon specializes in personalized gifts, including birthstone ornaments with customizable name engravings.
Precious Moments ornaments can be purchased directly from the Precious Moments website and through authorized retailers. The brand offers free shipping on U.S. orders over $99, making it an attractive option for customers seeking a wider range of Precious Moments products. The availability of these ornaments through multiple channels ensures accessibility for a broad audience.
Table of Precious Moments Ornament Examples (from Source [4])
| Item # | Year | Title | Asking Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 104515 | 1987 | Bear The Good News Of Christmas | $15.00 |
| 525057 | 1990 | Bundles Of Joy | $20.00 |
| 527696 | 1992 | But The Greatest Of These Is Love | $20.00 |
| 272698 | 1997 | Cane You Join Us For A Merry Christmas | $25.00 |
| 520462 | 1989 | Christmas Is Ruff Without You | $20.00 |
Conclusion
Birthstone ornaments, particularly those crafted by Precious Moments, represent a beautiful fusion of tradition, artistry, and personal sentiment. These ornaments are more than just decorative items; they are tangible expressions of love, connection, and the celebration of life’s precious moments. Rooted in ancient beliefs and enhanced by modern craftsmanship, birthstone ornaments continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gift-givers and collectors alike. The enduring appeal of these ornaments lies in their ability to transform a simple gift into a cherished keepsake, imbued with meaning and symbolic significance.