The tradition of gifting a birthstone push present has grown in popularity as a heartfelt way to celebrate the arrival of a new child and honor the incredible journey of motherhood. These gifts are often personalized jewelry pieces featuring the gemstone associated with the baby’s birth month. As a symbol of love, gratitude, and recognition for the physical and emotional effort of childbirth, birthstone push presents have become a meaningful addition to the rituals of new parenthood.
This article explores the historical and cultural context of birthstone jewelry, the modern push present tradition, and the gemstones most commonly associated with this meaningful gift. We will examine the symbolic and emotional value of these presents, as well as practical considerations for selecting and customizing the perfect piece.
History and Lore of Birthstone Jewelry
The use of gemstones in jewelry dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations attributing magical and protective properties to different stones. The concept of birthstones—gemstones linked to specific months of the year—has its roots in biblical and historical traditions.
The earliest known reference to birthstones is found in the Old Testament (Exodus 28:15-30), where the twelve gemstones of the High Priest’s Breastplate are described. These stones were believed to represent the twelve tribes of Israel and were used as a source of spiritual guidance and protection. While the specific identities of these stones remain debated, they laid the foundation for later associations between gemstones and the months of the year.
The modern concept of birthstones as we know it began to take shape in the 14th century, when the German physician and mineralogist Abraham Zacchius created the first documented list of gemstones corresponding to the months. His list combined stones from earlier traditions with those known in medieval Europe.
Over time, different cultures and regions developed their own variations of birthstone lists, leading to traditional and modern birthstone lists, which are still used today. These lists have evolved due to the availability of gemstones, advances in gemology, and the desire to assign unique stones to each month.
Traditional vs. Modern Birthstone Lists
As outlined in the sources, there are two primary systems of birthstone association:
Traditional Birthstone List
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Bloodstone
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Pearl
- July: Ruby
- August: Sardonyx
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Topaz
- December: Lapis or Turquoise
This list, which has roots in the 16th century, is based on older gemological traditions and often includes stones that were historically more accessible or culturally significant.
Modern Birthstone List
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Alexandrite
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot or Spinel
- September: Sapphire
- October: Tourmaline
- November: Golden Topaz or Citrine
- December: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, or Tanzanite
The modern list reflects changes in gem availability and the desire to assign unique, colorful gemstones to each month. Alexandrite, for example, is a relatively rare and newly discovered gemstone that was added to the list in the 20th century.
Both traditional and modern lists are widely accepted and used in the jewelry industry, depending on the preference of the buyer and the availability of the stones.
The Rise of the Push Present Tradition
While birthstone jewelry has long been a symbol of personal significance and sentiment, the push present is a more recent tradition. A push present is a gift given to a mother after childbirth—either natural or via C-section—as a token of appreciation and love. The idea is to acknowledge the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and delivery and to celebrate the arrival of a new life.
The push present is typically a piece of jewelry that includes the baby’s birthstone, making it a personalized and enduring keepsake for the mother. The jewelry can be in the form of a pendant, earrings, ring, or bracelet, and it may be custom-designed to reflect the mother’s style and preferences.
According to the sources, the push present has become especially popular among celebrities. For example, Kim Kardashian received a $1 million Lorraine Schwartz choker from Kanye West after the birth of their son, Saint. Similarly, Jennifer Lopez was gifted Canary diamond earrings by Marc Anthony after the birth of their twins. These high-profile examples have contributed to the growing awareness and popularity of the tradition.
However, the push present is not limited to the wealthy or the famous. It has become a celebration of motherhood for women of all backgrounds. As one source notes, it is a gesture that "represents admiration for the incredible work that goes into bringing a child into the world."
Selecting the Perfect Birthstone Push Present
Choosing the right birthstone push present involves several considerations, including the type of jewelry, the design, and the practicality of the gemstone. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
1. Gemstone Selection
The choice of gemstone is dictated by the baby’s birth month, which determines the stone according to the traditional or modern birthstone list. Each gemstone carries its own symbolic meaning and characteristics, which can add depth to the gift.
For instance: - Garnet (January): Known as the "stone of love," garnet is associated with vitality and protection. - Amethyst (February): Amethyst is believed to promote calm and clarity. - Aquamarine (March): This serene blue gem is associated with courage and serenity. - Diamond (April): The hardest natural substance, diamond symbolizes strength and eternity. - Emerald (May): Emerald is linked to fertility and renewal. - Alexandrite (June): Alexandrite is a rare gemstone that changes color in different light and is associated with transformation and balance. - Ruby (July): Ruby is the symbol of passion and is often considered the "king of gemstones." - Peridot or Spinel (August): These vibrant green stones are believed to promote joy and healing. - Sapphire (September): Sapphire is associated with wisdom and loyalty. - Tourmaline (October): Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors and is believed to promote emotional balance. - Topaz or Citrine (November): Golden topaz and citrine are associated with warmth and optimism. - Blue Topaz, Zircon, or Tanzanite (December): These deep blue gems are believed to promote calm and spiritual awareness.
When choosing a gemstone, it's also important to consider its durability and care requirements. For example, opals and pearls are relatively soft and require special care, while diamonds and rubies are much more durable and suitable for everyday wear.
2. Jewelry Design
The design of the jewelry is just as important as the gemstone itself. The push present should be a meaningful and wearable piece that the mother can cherish for years. Common options include: - Birthstone pendants: A classic choice that can be worn daily and is easy to personalize. - Birthstone earrings: Delicate and elegant, these can be worn as a subtle reminder of the baby’s arrival. - Rings: A birthstone ring can be designed as a simple band or a more elaborate piece with additional details. - Bracelets: Birthstone bracelets are a popular option, especially for mothers who may find necklaces uncomfortable after childbirth.
Some sources also mention custom jewelry, which allows for greater personalization. For example, a mother may receive a stacking bangle with the birthstones of multiple children, or a monogrammed piece that includes the baby’s initials or name. These custom designs can be created in a variety of metals, including white gold, yellow gold, or platinum, and can include additional elements such as diamonds or engraved inscriptions.
3. Practical Considerations
When selecting a push present, it's important to consider the practicality of the jewelry. For example: - Size and comfort: A large or bulky piece may not be suitable for a new mother, especially if she will be holding her baby for long periods. - Durability: The gemstone should be hard and resistant to scratches, especially if the piece will be worn daily. - Maintenance: Some gemstones require special cleaning and care, which may be a consideration for a busy new mother.
For example, opals and pearls are not recommended for everyday wear due to their softness and sensitivity to chemicals. In contrast, diamonds, sapphires, and rubies are very durable and can be worn without concern.
The Emotional and Symbolic Value of Birthstone Push Presents
Beyond their aesthetic and practical value, birthstone push presents hold deep emotional and symbolic significance. They serve as a tangible reminder of the baby’s birth, a celebration of the mother’s strength, and a lasting symbol of love and appreciation.
According to one source, "A push gift is just what she deserves, from spoiling her with lavish diamond jewelry to practical items to support her motherhood journey." This sentiment reflects the dual purpose of the push present: to honor the mother and to support her in her new role.
In addition to their symbolic meaning, birthstone push presents can also serve as family heirlooms. As children grow, their birthstone jewelry can be passed down or added to, creating a personalized collection that reflects the family’s journey. Some mothers even choose to wear the jewelry until they pass it on to their child, making it a doubly special gift.
Conclusion
Birthstone push presents have become a cherished tradition that combines personalization, sentiment, and style. By selecting a gemstone associated with the baby’s birth month and creating a meaningful piece of jewelry, these gifts celebrate both the arrival of a new life and the strength of the mother. Whether it's a simple pendant, a custom-designed ring, or a monogrammed bracelet, the push present is a thoughtful and enduring way to honor the journey of motherhood.
As gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology understand, these gifts are not only beautiful but also rich in historical and cultural significance. By choosing a birthstone push present, you are not only giving a gift—you are creating a legacy that can be cherished for generations.