Birthstones, gemstones popularly associated with the month of one’s birth, hold a captivating place in human history and culture. Throughout the ages, people have adorned themselves with beautiful and rare jewelry, but stones representing a personal connection – the month of one’s birth – possess a deeper meaning and enduring appeal. The tradition of linking gemstones to specific months has evolved over time, with variations existing across different regions and cultures. The standardization of birthstones as recognized today began in 1912 with the American National Association of Jewelers, and has been updated since by the Jewelry Industry Council of America and the American Gem Trade Association. This article will explore the history, lore, and modern significance of birthstones, drawing upon ancient beliefs and contemporary practices.
A History Rooted in Ancient Beliefs
The belief in the magical and mystical power of gems dates back to ancient civilizations. The Babylonians utilized gems as talismans, associating them with astrological signs and attributing healing properties to each stone. This tradition continued through the Greeks and Romans, whose writings, primarily focused on the medical applications of gems, have been passed down through the centuries. Similar beliefs were held by numerous other ancient tribes worldwide. These early cultures believed that gemstones possessed inherent energies that could influence health, fortune, and protection.
The practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month is a more recent development, though it builds upon these ancient foundations. The actual gemstones associated with each month have shifted over the years and vary geographically, demonstrating the evolving nature of these traditions.
Vedic and Chinese Astrological Gemstones
Beyond Western traditions, birthstones also feature prominently in Eastern astrological systems. Traditional Hindu Vedic astrology links specific gems to the Sun, Moon, and planets, utilizing them not only for adornment but also in ayurvedic medicine. In this context, gems are believed to influence chakras – energy channels within the body – particularly through the power of color. Similarly, birthstones are associated with Chinese astrological signs, further illustrating the widespread cultural significance of these gemstones.
November’s Dual Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
November is uniquely recognized with two birthstones: topaz and citrine. Both offer a range of warm, autumnal colors, making them particularly fitting for the fall month. The name “Topaz” is believed to originate from the Sanskrit word ‘Tapas’ and the Greek word ‘Topazos,’ both meaning “Fire.” Topaz exhibits a diverse spectrum of colors, including yellow, orange, brown, pink, and blue. Imperial topaz, characterized by its reddish-orange to pinkish-orange hue, is considered a particularly prized variety.
Citrine, on the other hand, is known for its warm yellow to amber hues, ranging from pale yellow to deep golden brown. While Imperial Topaz is highly valued, Citrine is more readily available and affordable, making it a popular choice for a wide array of jewelry designs.
Gemological Properties of Topaz and Citrine
Topaz is a silicate mineral with a chemical formula that varies, but generally includes aluminum and fluorine. It registers a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Citrine, however, is a variety of quartz, with a chemical formula of SiO2. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, slightly less durable than topaz.
Topaz comes in a variety of colors, with blue topaz being the most common today due to a stable enhancement process. Colorless topaz is irradiated to brown and then heated to achieve the sky-blue hue. A newer vapor deposition process can create additional colors like dark blue, red, pink, and green, or rainbow iridescence, though these require careful handling as the coating can be scratched. Citrine’s color is naturally derived, though heat treatment is often used to enhance or create its yellow to amber tones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Topaz is associated with qualities such as strength, courage, and wisdom. It is believed to bring positive energy and protection to the wearer. Citrine, conversely, is linked to energy, warmth, and abundance, carrying the energy of the sun and promoting positivity. These symbolic associations contribute to the enduring appeal of both stones as birthstones and gifts.
Moonstone: A Gem of Lunar Deities and Romantic Lore
Moonstone, the birthstone for June, is renowned for its adularescence – the shimmering, billowy light that appears to emanate from within the gemstone, giving it a unique glow. The finest moonstones exhibit a blue sheen against a colorless background. Historically, moonstone has been associated with both the Roman and Greek lunar deities, and Hindu mythology claims it is made of solidified moonbeams.
Moonstone is often linked to love, passion, and fertility, believed to bring great luck to those who wear it. It experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Art Nouveau era (1890s–1910s), with designers like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany incorporating it into their fine jewelry. It also gained prominence during the 1960s “flower child” movement and with New Age designers in the 1990s.
Sources and Mining Locations
Topaz is found in Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Africa, and China. Moonstone can be found in the United States (New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia), as well as in India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania. The most important world locations for moonstone are India and Sri Lanka. Peridot is mined in Arizona by Native Americans, Burma, and China, with a significant deposit discovered in Pakistan in 1994. Rubies have been traded along China’s North Silk Road as far back as 200 B.C.
Gemological Properties of Peridot
Peridot, the birthstone for August, has a chemical composition of Mg2SiO4-Fe2SiO4 and crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. It has a refractive index of 1.635 - 1.673, a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, and a specific gravity of 3.3 - 3.4. It exhibits imperfect cleavage and is not heat sensitive. While harder than many metals, it is softer than many other gemstones and requires careful storage to avoid scratches and impacts.
Care and Cleaning of Birthstones
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of any gemstone. Peridot, being sensitive to rapid temperature changes, should not be steam cleaned or subjected to ultrasonic cleaning. Instead, it should be cleaned with mild dish soap and a soft brush, paying attention to areas where dust can accumulate. Moonstone, with a hardness of 6–6.5, also requires gentle handling and should not be exposed to high heat or harsh cleaning methods. Topaz and Citrine, being more durable, can withstand more rigorous cleaning, but it is still advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
The Enduring Legacy of Birthstones
From ancient talismans to modern symbols of personal connection, birthstones continue to hold a special place in our hearts and minds. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, their historical significance, or their perceived metaphysical properties, these gemstones offer a tangible link to tradition, culture, and individual identity. The ongoing evolution of birthstone lists, with additions like tanzanite and spinel, demonstrates the enduring fascination with these captivating gifts from the earth.
Conclusion
Birthstones represent a rich tapestry of history, lore, and gemological science. From the ancient Babylonians to modern jewelry enthusiasts, the belief in the power and significance of these gemstones has persisted for millennia. Whether one believes in their mystical properties or simply appreciates their beauty, birthstones offer a unique and meaningful way to connect with the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future. The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months continues to thrive, offering a personalized and enduring symbol of identity and connection.