The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year, known as the birthstone calendar, boasts a rich and layered history. While the concept of imbuing gemstones with symbolic meaning dates back to biblical times, with the twelve stones on the High Priest’s breastplate representing the twelve tribes of Israel, the modern birthstone list evolved over centuries. Initially, connections were made between gemstones and the twelve apostles, but it wasn’t until the 15th or 16th century in Poland that wearing birthstones became commonplace. The standardization of this practice occurred much later, in 1912, when the Jewelers of America compiled an official list. This list, however, was largely driven by commercial availability rather than strict astrological alignment. Today, twelve gemstones—garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, diamond, emerald, pearl, ruby, peridot, sapphire, opal, topaz, and zircon—are recognized as birthstones, each with its own unique geological origins, properties, and cultural significance.
Historical Origins and the Evolution of Meaning
The earliest roots of birthstone association lie in ancient religious and spiritual practices. The breastplate of the High Priest, adorned with twelve gemstones, served as a foundational link between precious stones and specific groups of people. This connection gradually extended to the twelve apostles, further solidifying the idea of assigning symbolic meaning to gemstones. However, the practice of wearing gemstones specifically tied to one’s birth month did not emerge until much later.
Poland in the 15th and 16th centuries marks a turning point, with individuals beginning to wear the stones corresponding to their birth month, believing they possessed unique powers and offered protection. This practice spread, but a universally accepted list remained elusive for centuries. The standardization of the birthstone calendar finally arrived in 1912 with the official list published by the Jewelers of America. It is important to note that this list was, to a significant extent, influenced by the gemstones readily available in the market at the time.
A Spectrum of Color: Categorizing the Birthstones
The birthstones encompass a wide range of colors, offering a gemstone for every preference. A useful way to understand them is to categorize them by color, as outlined by gemological sources. The birthstones can be broadly divided into red/pink, yellow/orange, blue, and green categories.
Red and pink gemstones include garnet, ruby, spinel, and pink tourmaline. Garnets, often a dark red hue, are sometimes mistaken for rubies, though they are less expensive and durable. Rubies, belonging to the corundum family, are among the four precious gemstones (along with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires) and rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Pink sapphires also fall into this category, representing a lighter shade of the same mineral.
Yellow and orange are represented by November’s birthstones: topaz and citrine, both exhibiting varying shades of yellow.
Blue birthstones are particularly prominent, with aquamarine, sapphire, zircon, and turquoise all displaying shades of blue. Aquamarine offers a calming, refreshing blue, sometimes with hints of green. Sapphires, while known for their deep blue variety, actually occur in a rainbow of colors. Zircon is known for its colorless variety but also appears in blue, while turquoise and tanzanite are exclusively blue stones associated with December.
Green is represented by emerald and peridot. Emeralds, sourced from Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia, are highly prized. Peridot, another green gemstone, is also mined across the globe.
Gemological Properties and Origins
The birthstones exhibit a diverse range of gemological properties. Diamonds, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, are renowned for their brilliance and durability. Rubies and sapphires, also ranking 9, are equally durable and belong to the corundum family. Emeralds, while beautiful, are generally more fragile. Garnets, while less expensive than rubies, are also less durable.
The origins of these gemstones are equally varied. Garnets are found worldwide, particularly in Africa, Asia, South America, and the United States. Amethysts are primarily mined in Zambia, but also in South America, Asia, the United States, and Canada. Aquamarine is largely sourced from Brazil. Diamonds are primarily produced in Russia, Africa, India, and Australia. Emeralds come from Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. Rubies are mined globally, as are peridots. Sapphires are found in more limited locations, including Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
While the sources do not delve deeply into the specific symbolism associated with each birthstone, the very act of assigning a gemstone to a birth month implies a belief in its inherent properties and influence. The historical connection to religious figures and tribes suggests a long-held belief in the power of gemstones to offer protection, healing, or good fortune. The selection of commercially available stones in 1912, while pragmatic, does not diminish the enduring appeal of these gemstones and their associated meanings.
A Note on Additional Information and Events
While the primary focus is on the birthstone calendar, it is worth noting that events and experiences centered around gemstones and jewelry are available. American Girl, for example, offers events such as Bingo and Pizza Parties, Flower Crown Teatime, and Halloween Teatime Brunches. They also provide services like Styled by You, allowing girls to personalize and accessorize dolls, and personal shopping assistance. These events and services, while not directly related to the birthstones themselves, demonstrate the broader cultural fascination with gemstones and the joy they bring.
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Conclusion
The birthstone calendar represents a fascinating intersection of history, geology, and cultural belief. From its origins in ancient religious practices to its modern standardization by the Jewelers of America, the tradition of associating gemstones with birth months has endured for centuries. The twelve birthstones—garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, diamond, emerald, pearl, ruby, peridot, sapphire, opal, topaz, and zircon—each possess unique properties and origins, contributing to their enduring appeal. While the selection process in 1912 was influenced by commercial considerations, the symbolic significance of these gemstones remains strong, offering a colorful and meaningful connection to the month of one’s birth.