Calendar birthstone necklaces represent a contemporary adaptation of a long-held tradition: associating gemstones with specific months of the year. These personalized pieces, often featuring cubic zirconia representations of birthstones, allow individuals to commemorate significant dates and carry a connection to their birth month’s symbolic gem. While the practice of assigning gemstones to months has ancient roots, the modern calendar necklace leverages accessible materials like stainless steel and gold plating to create affordable and meaningful jewelry. This article will explore the history of birthstones, the gemstones associated with each month according to current charts, and the materials and construction of these popular personalized necklaces.
A History of Gemstone Association
The concept of linking gemstones to specific months is not a modern invention. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient world, particularly to the breastplate of Aaron in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate contained twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel, establishing an early connection between stones and symbolic meaning.
Over time, different cultures developed their own associations. Ancient Greeks linked gemstones to the zodiac signs, believing that wearing a stone corresponding to one’s astrological sign could bestow specific benefits. Similarly, Roman historians like Pliny the Elder documented gemstone lore and their perceived medicinal properties.
The modern birthstone chart, however, is a relatively recent development. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones for the United States, aiming to provide a consistent reference for jewelers and consumers. This list has been updated several times since, with additional stones added as modern options. Today, both traditional and modern birthstone lists exist, offering a wider range of choices.
The Modern Birthstone Chart
The current, widely accepted birthstone chart assigns a specific gemstone to each month. January is represented by garnet, February by amethyst, March by aquamarine, April by diamond, May by emerald, June by alexandrite, July by ruby, August by peridot (and spinel), September by sapphire, October by tourmaline (and opal), November by topaz (and citrine), and December by blue topaz (and turquoise).
Garnets, traditionally associated with January, are not limited to the red hues often depicted. They encompass a wide spectrum of colors, from purplish to green and orange. Amethyst, the February birthstone, is a variety of quartz known for its lilac to deep reddish-purple coloration and a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for various jewelry applications. Aquamarine, the March stone, derives its name from seawater and exhibits blue to blue-green shades. Diamonds, the April birthstone, are renowned for their brilliance and durability. Emeralds, representing May, are prized for their vibrant green color.
The June birthstone, alexandrite, is a color-changing gem, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light. Ruby, the July stone, is a red variety of corundum, celebrated for its intense color. Peridot, for August, is an olive-green gem. September’s sapphire is typically blue, but can also occur in other colors. October offers a choice between tourmaline, which comes in a vast array of colors, and opal, known for its play-of-color. November presents topaz and citrine as options, while December features blue topaz and turquoise.
Materials and Construction of Calendar Necklaces
Calendar birthstone necklaces typically feature a scallop-edge calendar pendant crafted from high-quality solid 925 sterling silver or stainless steel. These pendants are designed to hold small gemstones, often cubic zirconia (CZ), representing the birthstones of significant dates. The necklaces are available in various finishes, including 18K gold plating, sterling silver, and rose gold.
Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone that closely resembles diamond in appearance. It is a popular and affordable alternative to natural diamonds, making it ideal for everyday wear and personalized jewelry. The stones used in these necklaces are typically around 2mm in size.
The chains accompanying these pendants are often adjustable, allowing the wearer to choose a length of 16, 17, or 18 inches. Materials like 14k gold fill and sterling silver are commonly used for the chains, offering durability and hypoallergenic properties. Gold-filled pieces consist of multiple layers of gold bonded to a base metal, providing a lasting and affordable alternative to solid gold. Sterling silver (.925) is also a popular choice due to its timeless appeal and resistance to tarnishing.
Some manufacturers offer additional options, such as gift packaging and the ability to engrave the pendant with a personalized title of up to 13 characters. The necklaces are often marketed with a 90-day warranty and are described as carefully handcrafted and made to last.
Gemstone Properties and Care
While calendar necklaces often utilize cubic zirconia, understanding the properties of the natural birthstones is valuable. Diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of 10, are the hardest known natural substance, making them exceptionally durable. Emeralds, with a hardness of 7.5-8, require careful handling to avoid chipping or scratching. Rubies and sapphires, also corundum varieties, possess a hardness of 9, making them highly resistant to abrasion.
Cubic zirconia, while durable, is softer than diamond (around 8.5 on the Mohs scale) and can be scratched over time. To maintain the appearance of a calendar necklace, it is recommended to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and extreme temperatures. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap is generally sufficient. For gold-filled or sterling silver components, regular polishing can help restore their shine.
Symbolism and Modern Appeal
The enduring popularity of birthstone jewelry stems from the belief that gemstones possess unique energies and symbolic meanings. Garnets are associated with protection and vitality, while amethysts are linked to spirituality and mental clarity. Aquamarines symbolize marital happiness and intellect, and diamonds represent enduring love and strength.
The calendar necklace format adds a personalized dimension to this tradition, allowing individuals to celebrate not only their birth month but also other significant dates, such as anniversaries, birthdays of loved ones, or milestones in their lives. This combination of personal meaning and aesthetic appeal contributes to the continued demand for these necklaces.
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Conclusion
Calendar birthstone necklaces represent a modern interpretation of an ancient tradition. By combining the symbolic significance of birthstones with personalized design elements, these necklaces offer a meaningful and accessible way to commemorate important dates and celebrate individual connections to the gemstones associated with their birth months. The use of materials like sterling silver, stainless steel, and cubic zirconia ensures affordability and durability, making these necklaces a popular choice for gift-giving and personal adornment.