These charming birthstone angel pins, featuring Genuine Austrian Crystals, represent a delightful intersection of faith-based symbolism and the enduring appeal of birthstone jewelry. While not focused on a single gemstone in the traditional sense, these pins showcase a variety of crystals associated with each month of the year, offering a personalized and meaningful accessory. This article will explore the history and significance of these pins, the gemstones they feature, and their place within the broader tradition of birthstone jewelry.
A Modern Tradition with Historical Roots
The concept of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year dates back to ancient times, with origins in the Book of Revelation and early Jewish priestly breastplates. However, the specific pairings we recognize today evolved over centuries, becoming standardized in the 20th century. The angel pin, as a design element, carries its own rich history, often symbolizing protection, guidance, and faith.
The combination of these two elements – birthstones and angelic imagery – appears to be a relatively recent trend, gaining popularity through retailers specializing in inspirational and faith-based gifts. The pins are frequently presented as tokens of affection, remembrance, or spiritual connection. The readily available nature of Austrian Crystals has made these pins accessible and affordable, contributing to their widespread appeal.
The Allure of Austrian Crystals
Genuine Austrian Crystals are a key component of these pins, prized for their brilliance and affordability. While often compared to diamonds, Austrian Crystals are produced using a different manufacturing process. They are known for their high refractive index, which contributes to their sparkling appearance. The sources emphasize that these crystals deliver an “unbeatable sparkling look” and are “as shiny as diamonds.”
These crystals are used in conjunction with other materials, such as gold-finished metal, to create the pins. The pins are typically around 3/4 inches in height, making them a subtle yet noticeable accessory.
Birthstones Represented: A Monthly Overview
The available sources detail a wide range of birthstones represented in these angel pin designs. The following table summarizes the gemstones and their corresponding months, as offered by Gergana’s Couture and other retailers:
| Month | Birthstone | Availability (as of sources) |
|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | In Stock |
| February | Amethyst | In Stock |
| March | Aquamarine | Out of Stock |
| April | Crystal | In Stock |
| May | Emerald | In Stock |
| June | Alexandrite | In Stock |
| July | Ruby | In Stock |
| August | Peridot | Out of Stock |
| September | Sapphire | Out of Stock |
| October | Rose Zircon | In Stock |
| November | Topaz | In Stock |
| December | Blue Zircon | In Stock |
It is important to note that stock availability varies, as indicated in the sources. The range of available birthstones demonstrates the broad appeal of these pins as personalized gifts.
Symbolism and Meaning
Beyond the inherent symbolism of birthstones, the angel motif adds another layer of meaning. Angels are often seen as messengers of hope, protectors, and symbols of divine guidance. The combination of the two creates a piece of jewelry that is both personal and spiritually resonant.
The August birthstone pin, specifically, highlights the symbolism associated with Peridot. According to one source, Peridot is known to “heal relationship stress, lessen anger and jealousy and slowdown the aging process,” and hallmarks “abundance and prosperity.” This demonstrates how specific gemstones are believed to possess unique metaphysical properties.
Craftsmanship and Materials
The pins are described as being “proudly Made in USA,” suggesting a focus on domestic craftsmanship. The use of a 14Kt gold finish halo around the head of the angel adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. The crystals are handset, indicating a degree of skilled labor involved in their creation. The pins are often accompanied by a colorful greeting card with a thoughtful verse, further enhancing their gift-giving appeal.
Care and Maintenance
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions, the materials used in the construction of these pins suggest certain precautions. Austrian Crystals, while durable, can be scratched or damaged by harsh chemicals. It is recommended to avoid exposing the pins to cleaning agents, perfumes, or lotions. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is generally sufficient to maintain their sparkle. The gold finish should also be protected from abrasive materials.
Purchasing and Availability
These birthstone angel pins are available through a variety of retailers, including online marketplaces like eBay and specialized gift shops like Gergana’s Couture and Reilly Church Supplies. Availability varies depending on the month and retailer. The price point is generally affordable, ranging from approximately $7 to $15, making them accessible gifts for a wide range of budgets.
Conclusion
Austrian Crystal birthstone angel pins represent a charming and meaningful addition to the world of gemstone jewelry. They combine the ancient tradition of birthstone symbolism with the comforting imagery of angels, creating a piece that is both personal and spiritually resonant. While not featuring rare or precious gemstones, the use of Genuine Austrian Crystals provides an affordable and sparkling alternative. These pins serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of faith-based gifts and the power of personalized jewelry.
Sources
- Birthstone Angel Pin Austrian Crystal February Amethyst 3/4 in
- Emerald-May Birthstone Angel Pin, Genuine Austrian Crystals, Gold Finish Metal
- Genuine Austrian Crystal Pin Guardian Angel Birthstone February + Key Ring
- Emerald-May Birthstone Angel Pin, Genuine Austrian Crystals
- Thoughtful Little Angels August Birthstone Angel Pin
- Birthstone Angel Pins (Austrian Crystal)