The concept of birthstones, gemstones associated with specific months, has a long and fascinating history. While modern interpretations often focus on personalized jewelry, the tradition’s roots lie in ancient astrology and beliefs surrounding the healing powers of colored stones. Recent trends, particularly those popularized by brands like Alex and Ani, have seen a surge in the popularity of birthstone-themed jewelry, specifically expandable bangles featuring crystal charms representing each month’s designated gem. This article will explore the gemstones associated with several months, as highlighted by available information, alongside the evolving trends in birthstone jewelry and consumer perceptions.
Historical Context and Modern Trends
The practice of linking gemstones to specific months dates back to the Breastplate of Aaron in the Old Testament, though the modern standardization of birthstones didn’t occur until much later. The National Association of Jewelers officially adopted a list of birthstones in 1912, though variations exist across cultures and even within the jewelry industry.
Recently, brands like Alex and Ani have capitalized on the personalization aspect of birthstones, offering expandable bangles adorned with crystal charms. These bangles, often marketed as gifts for mothers and birthdays, allow individuals to showcase their birthstone or those of loved ones. However, consumer feedback suggests a fluctuating level of satisfaction with these products. Some customers report issues with quality control, including inconsistencies in wrapping and the appearance of the charms compared to online representations. Concerns have been raised regarding the durability of the finish, with some bracelets exhibiting chipping and dullness over time. Despite these concerns, the initial appeal of these bangles, and the broader trend of birthstone jewelry, remains strong.
Gemstones by Month: A Closer Look
Based on the available information, several birthstones and their associated characteristics can be examined.
July: Red Gemstones
July is associated with the color red, and specifically with gemstones that exhibit this hue. While no specific gemstone is explicitly named beyond the color association, the mention of an “Alex and Ani Birthstones Expandable Bangle for Women, Light Siam Crystal Charm for July” suggests a preference for Siam-colored crystals in contemporary jewelry.
August: Peridot and Sardonyx
August boasts two birthstones: Peridot and Sardonyx. Peridot, a vibrant green gemstone, is often mistaken for emerald but possesses a unique character. It is described as a stone of “happy energy,” associated with kindness, enthusiasm, and problem-solving abilities. The information suggests that peridot is a product of meteorites, linking it to a cosmic origin. Sardonyx is presented as an alternative to peridot.
September: Sapphire
September is represented by Sapphire, a gemstone known for its calm and wise energy. Sapphires are considered individuals who thrive in leadership roles, offering honest opinions with kindness. However, they may struggle with vulnerability and opening up about personal challenges. The color associated with September birthstones is a dark blue.
October: Opal, Tourmaline, and Aquamarine
October presents a more complex selection, with Opal as the primary birthstone, and Tourmaline and Aquamarine offered as alternatives. Opal is described as a “mysterious rainbow jewel” with an unknown formation process. Individuals associated with opal are characterized as keepers of secrets, embracing “necessary destruction” – the courage to start over, set boundaries, and pursue self-improvement. The stone is linked to creativity and hope for the future.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November features Topaz as the primary birthstone, with Citrine as an alternative. Topaz is known as the “friendship stone,” embodying qualities like loyalty, strength, friendliness, flexibility, and emotional stability. While empathetic, individuals associated with topaz may be prone to taking on the burdens of others. The color associated with November birthstones is orange or brown.
December: Turquoise
December is represented by Turquoise, a stone associated with clarity, peace, and luck. Turquoise individuals are described as supportive and protective, though potentially less forgiving. The color associated with December birthstones is a bright blue.
Gemological Properties: Limited Information
The provided sources offer limited information regarding the gemological properties of these stones. No details are given regarding chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or other standard gemological characteristics. The descriptions primarily focus on color and perceived energetic qualities.
A table summarizing the available information is presented below:
| Month | Birthstone(s) | Associated Characteristics | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| July | Red Gemstones | N/A | Red |
| August | Peridot | Happy, Enthusiastic | Green |
| Sardonyx | N/A | N/A | |
| September | Sapphire | Calm, Wise, Leader | Dark Blue |
| October | Opal | Mysterious, Courageous | Iridescent |
| Tourmaline | N/A | N/A | |
| Aquamarine | N/A | N/A | |
| November | Topaz | Loyal, Empathetic | Orange/Brown |
| Citrine | N/A | N/A | |
| December | Turquoise | Clear-headed, Protective | Bright Blue |
Consumer Perceptions and Brand Reputation
The provided sources include customer reviews regarding Alex and Ani bracelets, revealing a mixed reception. While some customers express satisfaction with the aesthetic appeal and wearability of the bangles, others report issues with quality, consistency, and durability. Concerns about the finish chipping and the overall appearance differing from online representations suggest potential discrepancies in manufacturing or quality control. One customer recommends purchasing directly from the brand to avoid these issues. A discussion forum post from 2017 indicates a decline in popularity of Alex & Ani bracelets, with some users finding them “tacky” and short-lived. However, other users continue to enjoy and wear the bracelets, suggesting a continued, albeit potentially niche, market.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a blend of historical tradition, astrological belief, and modern marketing. While the specific gemstones associated with each month have evolved over time, the underlying desire for personalized and meaningful jewelry remains constant. Brands like Alex and Ani have successfully tapped into this market with their birthstone-themed bangles, but consumer feedback highlights the importance of quality control and consistent product representation. The gemstones themselves, from the vibrant peridot to the mysterious opal, each possess unique characteristics and symbolic meanings that continue to resonate with individuals seeking a connection to their birth month and its associated energies. The available information, while limited in gemological detail, provides a glimpse into the evolving appeal of birthstones and the complexities of consumer perceptions in the jewelry market.