The Birthstone Barbie collection represents a unique intersection of popular culture and gemological appreciation. Launched by Mattel, these dolls are designed to embody the color and spirit of each month’s birthstone, offering a playful and collectible tribute to these treasured gems. While no longer actively sold by Mattel directly, the Birthstone Barbies have become highly sought-after items, with prices varying widely depending on the month and condition. This article will explore the history, design, and collectability of these dolls, drawing exclusively from available information.
A History of Gemstone-Inspired Dolls
Mattel introduced the first line of Birthstone Barbies in 2002, quickly establishing a popular collector’s item. The concept resonated with Barbie enthusiasts and those interested in the symbolism of birthstones alike. The dolls were initially released with a more formal aesthetic, featuring floor-length gowns and coordinating accessories. A subsequent line, the Birthstone Beauties Pink Label Collection, debuted in 2007, offering a more contemporary look with shorter dresses and the addition of a matching puppy companion.
The collection expanded over the years, with a total of 36 variations created – three Barbies for each birth month, each featuring a different skin tone. This attention to inclusivity added to the appeal of the collection. The dolls appeal to a diverse audience, from those seeking a Barbie representing their own birthstone to collectors aiming to complete the entire set.
Design and Representation of the Birthstones
Each Birthstone Barbie is meticulously designed to reflect the color and essence of its corresponding gemstone. The dolls are adorned in dresses that mirror the hue and, where possible, the visual characteristics of the birthstone. Accessories, including necklaces and bracelets, further emphasize the connection to the gem.
January: Garnet Birthstone Barbie is dressed in a deep red, chiffon evening dress, complemented by a sophisticated wrap, garnet necklace, and bracelet. The rich color accurately represents the deep red tones of the garnet.
February: Amethyst Birthstone Barbie is dazzling in a purple ensemble, covered in glitter to evoke the rich tone of the amethyst stone.
March: Aquamarine Birthstone Barbie features a pastel aqua dress, inspired by the delicate color of aquamarine, and accented with sparkle.
April: Diamond Birthstone Barbie is clothed in an elegant white gown, serving as a canvas for glitter, reminiscent of the sparkling diamond.
May: Emerald Barbie showcases a striking forest green dress, accurately portraying the bold color of the emerald.
June: Pearl Birthstone Barbie presents a softer look with a cream-colored evening dress, embodying the classiness associated with pearls. The design shares similarities with the Diamond Barbie’s attire but offers a distinct, softer aesthetic.
July: Ruby Barbie is bold and beautiful, with uniquely colored red hair and a sparkly red evening gown, capturing the essence of the ruby.
August: Peridot Barbie features a dress with two different shades of green, highlighting the unique beauty of the peridot birthstone.
September: Sapphire Barbie is adorned in a rich, deep blue dress, reflecting the upscale feel of the sapphire.
October: Opal Barbie boasts a gorgeous evening gown with an iridescent color, mimicking the play-of-color characteristic of the opal, with subtle shades of pink and blue.
November: Topaz Barbie is creatively represented with a mauve-toned dress adorned with gold glitter clusters, capturing the unique beauty of the topaz.
December: Turquoise Barbie features a fun blue turquoise gown with bunches of blue glitter, capturing the two-tone essence of the turquoise birthstone.
Collectibility and Market Value
The Birthstone Barbie dolls have become a popular collector’s item, with prices varying considerably. While Mattel no longer sells them directly, they can be found through online auction sites like eBay. Prices range from around $10 for some of the more common dolls to $250 or more for rarer or particularly well-preserved examples. The popularity of specific months, such as January (Garnet), March (Aquamarine), June (Pearl), September (Sapphire), and December (Turquoise), contributes to their higher market value.
The appeal of the collection lies in its combination of Barbie’s enduring popularity and the personal connection individuals feel to their birthstones. Collectors may seek to acquire the entire set, the doll representing their own birth month, or purchase them as gifts for loved ones.
Beyond Birthstones: Barbie and Cultural Representation
While the focus of this article is on the Birthstone Barbies, it’s worth noting Mattel’s broader efforts to create dolls representing diverse cultures and traditions. The company has released dolls inspired by various countries, including Mexico, Jamaica, and Germany, each designed to celebrate the unique heritage and customs of that nation.
For example, Mexican Barbie is dressed in a traditional folklórico outfit, reflecting the country’s rich cultural history and craftsmanship. Jamaican Barbie embodies the laid-back joy of Jamaica with a vibrant, handmade costume. German Barbie is ready to celebrate Bavarian culture with a traditional Oktoberfest outfit. These dolls demonstrate Mattel’s commitment to cultural representation and provide a glimpse into the traditions and artistry of different communities around the world.
Sources
Conclusion
The Birthstone Barbie collection offers a charming and collectible tribute to the beauty and symbolism of birthstones. These dolls, with their carefully designed attire and accessories, capture the essence of each month’s gemstone, appealing to both Barbie enthusiasts and those with an appreciation for gemology. While no longer in production, the Birthstone Barbies remain a popular item among collectors, with prices varying depending on rarity and condition. The collection stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Barbie and the timeless fascination with the world of gemstones.