The world of gemstones has long captivated enthusiasts, and within the virtual landscape of Animal Jam, this fascination is mirrored through the “Birthstones Collection.” Introduced in early 2013, this set of den items offers players a seasonal opportunity to acquire twelve unique gemstones, each representing a month of the year. This article details the history, availability, and characteristics of these collectible items, as presented within the Animal Jam universe.
The Birthstones Collection is a members-only feature, designed to add a touch of personalized decoration to player dens. Unlike traditional birthstone associations rooted in historical or geological significance, the Animal Jam birthstones are primarily aesthetic items intended for collection and display. The collection’s release was announced in Jamaa Journal Volume 78, marking the beginning of a continuing seasonal cycle of gemstone availability.
History and Introduction
The Birthstones Collection debuted as a unique offering within Animal Jam, drawing inspiration from the concept of birthstones but adapting it to the game’s virtual environment. The set was conceived as a seasonal offering, with each gemstone becoming available for purchase on the first day of its corresponding month and remaining available until the month’s end. This timed availability encourages players to actively engage with the game throughout the year to complete their collections.
The collection shares similarities with the “Birth Flowers Collection,” suggesting a broader design strategy within Animal Jam to incorporate personalized, seasonally-rotating items. The introduction of a dedicated display shelf, sold year-round at Epic Wonders, further supports the collection’s focus on presentation and showcases the player’s acquired gemstones.
Availability and Acquisition
Access to the Birthstones Collection is restricted to members of Animal Jam, a subscription-based service offering enhanced features and content. Each individual gemstone within the collection is priced at 1,500 Gems, the game’s primary virtual currency. This cost positions the gemstones as a significant investment for players, encouraging careful consideration and strategic gem acquisition.
The seasonal release schedule is a defining characteristic of the collection. Players must log in during the appropriate month to purchase the corresponding gemstone. This creates a sense of anticipation and encourages repeat engagement with the game. The consistent timing – the first of the month to the end of the month – provides a predictable pattern for collectors.
The Twelve Gemstones
The Birthstones Collection comprises twelve distinct gemstones, each associated with a specific month. The following table summarizes the gemstones and their corresponding months:
| Birthstone | Month |
|---|---|
| Garnet | January |
| Amethyst | February |
| Aquamarine | March |
| Diamond | April |
| Emerald | May |
| Pearl | June |
| Ruby | July |
| Peridot | August |
| Sapphire | September |
| Opal | October |
| Topaz | November |
| Turquoise | December |
Each gemstone is described as being inlaid in a gold-like metal, contributing to a consistent aesthetic across the collection. They are also noted for their sparkling appearance and relatively small size, suggesting a focus on detail and visual appeal within the game’s graphical limitations.
Gemstone Characteristics within Animal Jam
While the Animal Jam birthstones draw their names from real-world gemstones, their in-game characteristics are primarily defined by their visual appearance and collectible nature. The sources do not provide details regarding specific gemological properties such as hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition. Instead, the emphasis is on the aesthetic qualities of each item.
The description of each gemstone as “sparkling” suggests a visual effect designed to enhance their appeal. The “small size” indicates that they are intended as decorative elements rather than prominent features within a den. The “gold-like metal” setting provides a unifying design element, ensuring a cohesive look across the entire collection.
Collecting and Display
The primary appeal of the Birthstones Collection lies in the act of collecting and displaying the gemstones. Players are motivated to acquire each gemstone to complete their set and showcase their dedication to the game. The availability of a dedicated display shelf at Epic Wonders facilitates this aspect of the collection, providing a designated space for showcasing the acquired gemstones.
The collection encourages players to return to the game each month, fostering a sense of ongoing engagement and community. The limited-time availability of each gemstone creates a sense of urgency and encourages players to actively participate in the game’s seasonal events.
Conclusion
The Animal Jam Birthstones Collection represents a unique adaptation of the traditional birthstone concept within a virtual gaming environment. While lacking the geological and historical depth of real-world gemstones, the collection provides a compelling incentive for players to engage with the game on a monthly basis, fostering a sense of community and encouraging collection-based gameplay. The seasonal availability, coupled with the aesthetic appeal of the gemstones, has established the Birthstones Collection as a popular and enduring feature within Animal Jam. The collection’s success demonstrates the power of adapting established concepts to create engaging and rewarding experiences within virtual worlds.