The Animal Jam Birthstone Collection is a series of members-only den items introduced in early 2013, offering players a unique way to celebrate each month of the year. This collection features twelve distinct gemstones, each representing a specific month, and a year-round display shelf for showcasing them. The birthstones are released seasonally, appearing on the first day of their corresponding month and becoming unavailable at the month’s end. This system mirrors the release schedule of the similarly structured Birth Flowers Collection. Each gemstone is inlaid in a gold-like metal and possesses a sparkling quality, adding to their visual appeal within the game environment.
History and Lore
The Birthstone Collection was first announced in Jamaa Journal Volume 78. The concept quickly gained popularity among Animal Jam players, providing a collectible element tied to the calendar year. While the collection doesn’t draw upon ancient gemological traditions or historical lore outside of the game itself, it establishes a modern tradition within the Animal Jam community. The items are exclusively available to members, reinforcing the value of membership within the game. The collection’s seasonal nature encourages players to regularly check the Epic Wonders shop for the current month’s offering. The forum post on Belltree Forums indicates a nostalgic connection to past games for some players, suggesting the collection taps into a broader desire for collectible in-game items.
Gemstone Availability and Cost
Each birthstone within the collection is priced at 1,500 Gems, the in-game currency. This consistent pricing structure simplifies collecting and allows players to budget accordingly. The gemstones are released on a fixed schedule, with each month’s stone becoming available on the first day and disappearing at the end of the month. This limited availability creates a sense of urgency and encourages timely purchases. The display shelf, available year-round at Epic Wonders, provides a dedicated space for showcasing the collected gemstones.
The following table details the gemstones and their corresponding months:
| Birthstone | Month |
|---|---|
| Garnet | January |
| Amethyst | February |
| Aquamarine | March |
| Diamond | April |
| Emerald | May |
| Pearl | June |
| Ruby | July |
| Peridot | August |
| Sapphire | September |
| Opal | October |
| Topaz | November |
| Turquoise | December |
The Significance of Collecting
The Animal Jam Birthstone Collection fosters a sense of community and engagement among players. The seasonal release schedule encourages regular interaction with the game’s shop and promotes discussion about the current month’s gemstone. The collectible nature of the items appeals to players who enjoy completing sets and showcasing their achievements. The collection also provides a thematic element for decorating dens, allowing players to personalize their virtual spaces based on the time of year. The World Oceans Bundle promotion in June 2019, while not directly related to the birthstones, demonstrates Animal Jam’s strategy of offering bundled content to enhance player value and engagement.
Gemstone Descriptions (Based on Availability)
Due to the limited information provided in the sources, detailed gemological properties are unavailable. However, the sources do indicate that each birthstone varies in appearance, and all possess a sparkling quality. The gemstones are described as being “rather small,” suggesting they are designed as decorative den items rather than representations of large, realistic gemstones. The “gold-like metal” setting provides a consistent aesthetic across the collection.
The sources do not provide any information regarding the specific cut, clarity, or carat weight of the gemstones. Nor do they detail the chemical composition or hardness of the stones. The descriptions are purely visual, focusing on their appearance within the game.
Community Engagement and Nostalgia
The mention of the Animal Jam Birthstone Collection in a forum discussion about fondly remembered games highlights its impact on players. The user’s search for a similar game suggests the collection created a positive and memorable experience. This demonstrates the power of in-game collectibles to evoke nostalgia and foster a sense of community. The discussion also underscores the importance of engaging content in retaining players and creating a lasting connection with the game. The celebration of World Oceans Day within Animal Jam, with the associated bundle, further illustrates the game’s commitment to providing themed events and content that resonate with its player base.
Conclusion
The Animal Jam Birthstone Collection represents a successful implementation of a seasonal collectible system within a virtual world. By offering twelve unique gemstones, each tied to a specific month, the collection encourages player engagement, fosters a sense of community, and provides a decorative element for personalizing dens. While the sources lack detailed gemological information, they clearly establish the collection’s significance as a popular and enduring feature of Animal Jam. The collection’s continued presence and the nostalgic connection it evokes among players demonstrate its lasting impact on the Animal Jam community.