The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year has a rich and evolving history. While modern lists are relatively standardized, their origins lie in ancient beliefs and evolving cultural practices. The official birthstone list, as recognized today, dates back to 1912, established by the American National Retail Jewelers Association, now known as Jewelers of America. This system provides a personalized connection to gemstones, making them popular choices for jewelry and meaningful gifts. This article will explore the established birthstone list, focusing on the gemstones recognized for each month, as outlined by Jewelers of America.
A Monthly Overview of Birthstones
The established birthstone list, originating in 1912, assigns a specific gemstone – or sometimes multiple gemstones – to each month of the year. January is represented by Garnet. February’s birthstone is Amethyst. March features Aquamarine. April is associated with Diamond. May’s birthstone is Emerald. June has Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite. July’s birthstone is Ruby. August is represented by Peridot and Spinel. September’s birthstone is Sapphire. October features Opal and Tourmaline. November’s birthstones are Citrine and Topaz. Finally, December is represented by Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon.
The Historical Context of Birthstone Lists
The practice of linking gemstones to specific months or astrological signs has ancient roots. While the modern list is a relatively recent development, the concept itself dates back centuries. Ancient priests and healers believed gemstones possessed healing properties and influenced the wearer’s destiny. These beliefs led to the association of certain stones with particular months, based on astrological correspondences and perceived energetic qualities. The standardization of these associations, however, was a gradual process, influenced by cultural exchange, trade, and evolving gemological knowledge. The 1912 list by the American National Retail Jewelers Association provided a unified and commercially viable system, solidifying the modern birthstone tradition in the United States.
Employee Purchase Policies and Retail Practices
While not directly related to the gemological or historical aspects of birthstones, provided documentation details employee purchase policies at Western Stone & Metal (WSM) and Shane Co. These policies emphasize the importance of responsible purchasing and confidentiality regarding employee discounts. Employees and their immediate family members are permitted to purchase merchandise for personal use or as gifts, but resale and proxy purchases are strictly prohibited. Maintaining the confidentiality of employee pricing is also a key requirement, with violations potentially leading to disciplinary action, including termination. These policies highlight the retail context surrounding gemstone sales and the importance of ethical business practices within the jewelry industry.
Birthstone Selection and Personal Significance
The birthstone list offers a convenient and meaningful way to select gemstones. Choosing jewelry featuring one’s birthstone is often seen as a way to connect with personal heritage, embrace symbolic meaning, or simply appreciate the beauty of a particular gem. The availability of multiple birthstones for some months, such as June (Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite) and October (Opal, Tourmaline), provides additional options and allows for individual preferences. The practice of gifting birthstone jewelry is a popular way to show thoughtfulness and create a personalized present.
Conclusion
The birthstone tradition, formalized in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Association, continues to hold significance for many individuals. The association of specific gemstones with each month provides a connection to history, symbolism, and personal identity. While the provided sources primarily focus on the established birthstone list and related retail policies, they underscore the enduring appeal of gemstones as objects of beauty, meaning, and personal expression. The list serves as a guide for those seeking to explore the world of gemstones and find a piece of jewelry that resonates with their individual story.