The practice of gifting a “push present”—a gift given to a mother by her partner after the birth of a child—has become increasingly popular in recent years. While the tradition is relatively modern, the gifts themselves often draw upon timeless symbols of love, commitment, and new beginnings. Among the most cherished push present options is jewelry featuring birthstones, offering a personalized and sentimental keepsake to commemorate the arrival of a new child. This article explores the significance of birthstones in push presents, detailing the traditional and modern associations of each gem, and examining the various ways they are incorporated into meaningful jewelry designs.
History and Lore of Birthstone Gifting
The concept of associating specific gemstones with months of the year dates back to ancient times, though the specific correspondences have evolved over centuries. Originally, these associations were often linked to astrological signs, with each stone believed to possess unique powers and influence related to the month in which a person was born. The modern birthstone lists, as they are commonly known today, were standardized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers, though variations between “traditional” and “modern” lists persist.
The use of birthstones as gifts signifies a desire to bestow good fortune, health, and protection upon the recipient. When incorporated into a push present, the birthstone takes on an additional layer of meaning, representing the unique connection between mother and child. The act of selecting a gemstone associated with the baby’s birth month transforms a beautiful piece of jewelry into a lasting symbol of this profound bond.
Traditional and Modern Birthstone Lists
The sources provide both traditional and modern birthstone lists, offering a range of options for personalization. The traditional list, rooted in historical and cultural beliefs, includes garnet for January, amethyst for February, bloodstone for March, diamond for April, emerald for May, pearl for June, ruby for July, sardonyx for August, sapphire for September, opal for October, topaz for November, and lapis or turquoise for December.
The modern list, adopted to address issues of availability and preference, substitutes some of the more obscure traditional stones with readily available and popular alternatives. This list features garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March, diamond for April, emerald for May, alexandrite for June, ruby for July, and continues with similar stones for the remaining months. The choice between the traditional and modern lists often comes down to personal preference and the desired symbolism.
Gemstone Jewelry Options for Push Presents
The provided sources highlight a diverse array of jewelry options incorporating birthstones, catering to various styles and budgets. Necklaces, particularly those featuring a single birthstone pendant or multiple stones representing multiple children, are a popular choice. Bracelets, including delicate chains with birthstone charms or more substantial designs, also offer a beautiful way to showcase the gemstones. Rings, such as stacking rings or halo designs, provide a subtle yet meaningful way to incorporate a birthstone into a mother’s existing jewelry collection.
Earrings, including gemstone and diamond halo earrings or hinged hoop earrings with channel-set sapphires, are another elegant option. The versatility of birthstone jewelry allows for customization, with options ranging from simple and minimalist designs to more elaborate and ornate pieces. Many jewelers offer the ability to personalize gifts with engravings, adding the baby’s name, initials, or a special date to further enhance the sentimental value.
Specific Gemstone Considerations
While the sources do not provide detailed gemological properties for each birthstone, they do emphasize the aesthetic appeal and symbolic significance of several key gems. Diamonds, consistently featured as the April birthstone, represent enduring love and strength. Emeralds, the May birthstone, symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, making them particularly fitting for a push present. Rubies, the July birthstone, are associated with passion and vitality. Sapphires, the September birthstone, represent wisdom and loyalty.
The sources also mention the availability of various metal colors, including sterling silver, platinum, and different shades of gold, allowing for further customization to suit the recipient’s preferences. The option to choose between earth-mined and lab-grown diamonds provides flexibility in terms of budget and ethical considerations.
Personalization and Keepsake Value
A key aspect of a successful push present is its personalization. The ability to incorporate the baby’s birthstone, name, or initials transforms a standard piece of jewelry into a unique and cherished keepsake. Some jewelers even offer the option to design custom pieces, allowing partners to create a truly one-of-a-kind gift that reflects their individual style and sentiment.
The sources suggest that some clients design jewelry pieces with the intention of gifting them to their child at a later milestone, adding another layer of meaning and anticipation to the present. This forward-thinking approach transforms the jewelry into a family heirloom, passed down through generations as a symbol of love and connection.
Budget Considerations
Push presents range in price depending on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the jeweler’s pricing structure. The sources indicate that birthstone jewelry can be found to suit a variety of budgets, with options starting around $285 and extending to several thousand dollars. The availability of different metal options and the choice between earth-mined and lab-grown diamonds provide further flexibility in managing costs.
Care and Cleaning
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions for each birthstone, general jewelry care principles apply. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water can help maintain the brilliance of the gemstones. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage certain stones. Proper storage in a soft pouch or jewelry box can also help prevent scratches and damage.
Conclusion
Birthstone jewelry represents a thoughtful and sentimental push present option, offering a personalized and lasting symbol of the bond between mother and child. The tradition of associating gemstones with birth months adds a layer of meaning and symbolism, while the wide range of available designs and customization options ensures that there is a perfect piece to suit every style and budget. By carefully selecting a gemstone and design that reflects the recipient’s preferences and the significance of the occasion, partners can create a cherished keepsake that will be treasured for years to come.