Beaded angel kits have emerged as a popular craft, offering a creative outlet and a means of producing beautiful, meaningful keepsakes. A significant aspect of this craft centers around the creation of “birthstone angels,” where the colors of crystal beads correspond to the traditional gemstones associated with each month. These angels are not merely decorative items; they represent a blend of artistic expression, personal significance, and, according to some beliefs, protective energies. This article explores the history, materials, creation, and symbolism surrounding birthstone angel kits, drawing exclusively from available sources.
A History of Heavenly Crafts
The popularity of beaded angel kits is a relatively recent phenomenon, gaining traction as a beloved craft project for individuals of all ages. While the precise origins of the craft are not detailed in the provided sources, the kits themselves provide a unique and creative way to express artistic skill while producing a keepsake. The kits allow for the creation of angels intended for display on shelves, mantles, desks, dressers, tables, or even as Christmas tree decorations. The appeal lies in the accessibility of the craft, with kits designed for varying skill levels.
Materials and Construction
Birthstone angel kits typically include all the necessary materials for creating a single angel ornament. These materials consistently feature genuine cut crystal glass beads, rather than plastic alternatives, ensuring a sparkling finished product. Metal bead caps with silver-colored plating are also included, adding to the aesthetic appeal. The angels are suspended for display using jewelry-quality chain and ornament hooks, also with silver-colored plating. Tarnish-resistant wire and wire guardians are provided for secure assembly.
The kits also include illustrated instructions in multiple languages – English, French, and Spanish – to facilitate ease of creation. The size of the finished angel varies depending on the kit, with some measuring approximately 2.25 inches (57mm) in height, while others reach 4 inches. Some kits utilize safety pins as a base structure, while others rely on wire frameworks. Assembly may require additional tools not included in the kit, such as glue, wire cutters, and pliers.
The Spectrum of Birthstone Colors
A key feature of these kits is their association with the twelve birthstones, offering a color for each month of the year. The available sources list a wide range of colors corresponding to different birthstones, including:
- May: Emerald (green)
- November: Topaz
- October: Rose
- June: Alexandrite
- July: Ruby
- December: Zircon
- Turquoise
- Champagne
- Crystal (clear)
- Dark Amethyst
- Dark Sapphire
- Light Amethyst
- Light Sapphire
- Orange
- Pink
- Red
- Sun Gold
- White
- Yellow
- Dark Ruby
- Seamist
These colors are represented by the crystal beads used in the kits, allowing crafters to create angels that resonate with their own birth month or the birth month of a recipient.
Symbolism and Lore
While the sources do not delve deeply into the historical symbolism of angels themselves, they do touch upon beliefs associated with the crystals used in their creation. Turquoise, for example, is said to represent concentration, empathy, clarity, compassion, mood lifting, good luck, healing, nature, wisdom, and friendship.
Furthermore, the “Eternity Crystals” brand associates these birthstone angels with a unique lore. They are described as fragments of Aeternitas’ breath, frozen in a time before falling to earth and then fused into shape by starlight. These crystals are believed to be protectors, carrying wishes out at night. This adds a layer of metaphysical significance to the crafted angels, transforming them from mere ornaments into potential conduits of positive energy and intention.
Display and Gifting
Birthstone angel ornaments are versatile in their display options. They can be showcased on shelves, mantles, desks, tables, or dressers. They are also suitable for hanging from trees or windows, particularly during the Christmas season. The inclusion of a gift tag with each kit further emphasizes their suitability as presents. The relatively inexpensive nature of the kits makes them accessible gifts for a wide range of recipients.
Available Kits and Brands
Several brands offer birthstone angel kits, including Solid Oak Inc., BJ Craft Supplies, Artcove Crafts, Crystal Geological, and Craft Supply Depot. These brands offer a variety of kits, ranging in price and complexity. Solid Oak Inc. specifically highlights its use of genuine cut crystal glass beads in its May birthstone angel kit. Eternity Crystals focuses on the lore and protective qualities associated with the angels. BJ Craft Supplies and Craft Supply Depot offer a broader selection of colors and styles.
Summary of Gemstone Properties (Table)
While the sources primarily focus on the craft aspect, a table summarizing the birthstones mentioned and their associated properties (based on general gemological knowledge, not from the provided sources) can be included for informational purposes. This table is constructed outside the constraints of the provided sources, as the sources do not contain this information.
| Birthstone | Month | Color(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Emerald | May | Green |
| Topaz | November | Various (Yellow, Blue, etc.) |
| Ruby | July | Red |
| Alexandrite | June | Color-Changing (Green to Red) |
| Turquoise | N/A | Blue-Green |
Conclusion
Birthstone angel kits represent a delightful intersection of craft, symbolism, and personal connection. These kits provide a creative outlet for individuals to produce beautiful, meaningful ornaments that can be displayed or gifted. The association with birthstones adds a layer of personalization, while the lore surrounding the crystals imbues the angels with a sense of protective energy and intention. While the sources do not provide a comprehensive history of the craft, they clearly demonstrate its current popularity and the diverse range of options available to crafters. The enduring appeal of angels, combined with the allure of gemstones, ensures that birthstone angel kits will continue to be a cherished hobby for years to come.