The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year has a long and fascinating history, evolving over centuries and varying across cultures. While a standardized list of birthstones exists today, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom maintains several unique and historically significant variations. This article explores the British birthstone tradition, delving into its origins, the gemstones themselves, and the cultural significance they hold, drawing upon historical practices and evolving preferences.
The assignment of gemstones to months dates back to ancient times, though the specific associations have shifted over the years. The practice gained significant momentum during the Victorian era in Britain, becoming deeply intertwined with sentimental jewellery and personal expression. During this period, gemstones were not merely symbols of birth months but were also used to spell out secret messages in jewellery, adding a layer of romanticism and personal meaning. A popular example was the use of Diamond, Emerald, Amethyst, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire, and Topaz to spell “DEAREST” in a brooch, showcasing the intricate and thoughtful use of gemstones. This practice highlights the importance of birthstones as tokens of affection, remembrance, and social status.
Historical Variations in British Birthstones
The British tradition diverges from the standard American list in several key areas, reflecting a unique historical trajectory and regional preferences. For instance, while Aquamarine is commonly associated with March in the United States, Bloodstone held a more prominent position in British tradition. Bloodstone, a dark-green gemstone speckled with red iron oxide, was favored for its perceived protective and healing properties. Similarly, August traditionally featured Sardonyx, a banded stone of red, brown, and white, before Peridot gained popularity. Moonstone often accompanied Pearl as a birthstone for June in Britain, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the month. Perhaps the most notable difference lies with December, where Turquoise has historically been the preferred stone, surpassing the more modern inclusion of Blue Topaz.
Gemstones and Their Significance
Several gemstones stand out in the British birthstone tradition, each carrying its own unique history and symbolism.
Amethyst (February): Amethyst, with its captivating purple hue, has long been associated with royalty and spirituality. Historically worn by rulers of the Byzantine and Holy Roman Empires, it adorned the fingers of bishops and featured in the coronation regalia of British royalty. Rooted in Greek legend, amethyst was believed to prevent drunkenness, leading to associations with clear-headedness and wisdom. Modern interpretations continue to emphasize its calming properties, promoting intuition and spiritual understanding.
Ruby (July): The vibrant red of the ruby has always been linked to passion, love, and vitality. Throughout history, rubies have been prized for their beauty and rarity, featuring prominently in the jewellery of European aristocracy. The stone’s association with romance is deeply ingrained in folklore, making it a popular choice for expressing deep affection.
Peridot (August): Known as “the gem of the sun” by the ancient Egyptians, Peridot was originally mined on the island of Topazios (now St. John’s Island or Zabargad) in the Red Sea around 1500 BC. It was believed to ward off evil and, later, to improve relationships. Despite periods of obscurity, Peridot was rediscovered in the early 1900s, with sources now including the United States, Myanmar, Pakistan, and the Himalayas. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually consisted of Peridot.
Citrine & Topaz (November): November boasts two birthstones: Citrine and Topaz. Citrine, often called the "sunshine gem," is a variety of quartz known for its golden hues. Its name derives from the French word for lemon, citron. It is believed to promote positivity, prosperity, and creativity, earning it the nickname "the merchant's stone." Topaz, while also accepted, is considered the more traditional November birthstone.
Diamond (April): Diamonds, renowned for their exceptional hardness and brilliance, are a symbol of enduring love and commitment. Their unique formation process, requiring extreme pressure and heat, contributes to their exceptional durability. Diamonds are so hard that they can only be cut with another diamond.
Aquamarine & Bloodstone (March): Aquamarine, with its serene bluish-green tones, evokes the tranquility of the sea. Its name originates from the Latin words for “seawater.” Historically, it was believed to grant safe passage across stormy waters and is now recognized as a stone of harmony and tranquility. Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is a dark-green gemstone with red spots of iron oxide, believed to realign lower chakras and boost resilience.
British Gemstone Pride and Trade
Britain has a rich history of gemstone appreciation and trade. Welsh gold, sourced from Snowdonia, is famously used in royal wedding rings, symbolizing national pride and heritage. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Cornish and Scottish stones were highly prized for their uniqueness. The late 1800s saw a surge in popularity for Opals sourced through British trading networks, further solidifying October’s birthstone status. This demonstrates a long-standing connection between British culture and the appreciation of locally sourced and internationally traded gemstones.
The Victorian Era and Sentimental Jewellery
The Victorian era marked a golden age for birthstone jewellery in Britain. The practice of gifting birthstone jewellery became a thoughtful and stylish tradition, reflecting a deep understanding of the stones’ symbolism and personal significance. Beyond simply wearing one’s birthstone, Victorians embraced the art of creating personalized messages using gemstones, as exemplified by the “DEAREST” brooch. This period cemented the role of birthstones as integral components of personal expression and sentimental gifts.
Geological Origins and Sources
The sources of these gemstones are as diverse as their histories. Amethyst is found worldwide, including in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Zambia. Peridot has been sourced from Egypt (historically), the United States, Myanmar, Pakistan, and the Himalayas. Citrine, a variety of quartz, is also widely distributed. Diamonds originate from regions with ancient geological formations, requiring immense pressure and heat for their creation. The specific geological conditions necessary for the formation of each gemstone contribute to their rarity and value.
A Continuing Tradition
The British birthstone tradition continues to evolve, blending historical significance with modern preferences. While the standardized list provides a common framework, the unique variations and historical context offer a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of these gemstones. Whether worn for luck, love, remembrance, or simply for their aesthetic beauty, birthstones remain a cherished part of British culture, carrying with them a legacy of history, sentiment, and old-world charm.
Conclusion
The British birthstone tradition is a captivating blend of ancient lore, historical events, and cultural preferences. From the unique variations in monthly associations to the Victorian era’s embrace of sentimental jewellery, the story of British birthstones is a testament to the enduring power of gemstones to symbolize personal meaning and cultural identity. The tradition continues to thrive, offering a connection to the past and a source of beauty and inspiration for generations to come.