The practice of associating specific gemstones with months of the year, and subsequently with birthdays, is a tradition steeped in history and lore. While modern birthstone lists are widely recognized, a fascinating precursor exists in the form of the Gregorian birthstone poems. These verses, popularized in the 19th century, offer a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of gemstones, linking them to specific months and attributing particular qualities to each. This article will delve into the origins of these poems, their connection to earlier traditions, and the gemstones they celebrate, drawing exclusively from available sources.
The formalized association of gemstones with months began to take shape in the 1500s, but it was the publication of “Gregorian Birthstone Poems” by Tiffany & Co. in 1870 that truly solidified a standardized, albeit evolving, system. These poems, of unknown authorship, provided a memorable and accessible way to connect individuals with the gemstones corresponding to their birth month. Tiffany’s initiative was, in part, a marketing strategy to promote birthstone jewelry as ideal gifts for birthdays and anniversaries, but it also tapped into a much older tradition.
The roots of birthstone associations extend back to ancient civilizations. Christian scholars in the 5th century attempted to correlate the twelve gemstones adorning the Breastplate of Aaron (a sacred garment described in the Bible) with the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac. This connection suggested that wearing a specific gemstone during its corresponding month would bestow therapeutic benefits. Over time, this practice evolved, with individuals wearing one stone for each month of the year, each attributed with unique meanings and values. Eventually, the custom shifted to wearing only the stone associated with one’s birth month.
Early attempts at standardization occurred in the early 20th century. The National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) created a list in 1912, followed by the National Association of Goldsmiths in 1937. These lists, however, were not always consistent, and revisions continued throughout the century. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America amended the 1912 list, sometimes substituting more affordable gemstones for rarer, more expensive ones. This highlights the practical considerations that often influenced birthstone designations.
The Gregorian poems themselves offer a poetic snapshot of these evolving associations. Several examples are preserved in available sources. For those born in January, the poem dictates the garnet should be worn. February’s stone is not explicitly mentioned in the provided sources, but the poems continue through the year, assigning gemstones to each month.
For March, the poem states that a woman born in May, wearing an emerald, “Shall be a loved and a loving wife.” April’s poem calls for a diamond to be worn. May’s traditional birthstone, as highlighted in the poems and later standardized lists, is the emerald. The sources note that while the Hebrew interpretation for May’s birthstone was agate, the Arabic interpretation was emerald, and Tiffany & Co.’s pamphlet cemented the emerald’s place as the May birthstone.
June is associated with agate, with the poem promising health, wealth, and a long life to those who wear it. July’s poem champions the ruby, promising freedom from “love’s doubts and anxiety.” August calls for the wearing of a stone to ensure conjugal felicity, lest the August-born live “unloved and lone.” September’s poem suggests a sapphire for those born in September, to cure “diseases of the mind.” October’s poem links the opal to hope and respite from woes.
November’s association is more complex, with both topaz and citrine appearing on modern lists. The original November poem, however, focuses on topaz, suggesting it embodies “friends and lovers true.” The sources explain that citrine was added to the list in 1952, potentially due to its greater affordability compared to topaz. Historical records show that the ancient Greeks used citrine as early as 300 to 150 BC, connecting it to the harvest goddess Demeter, while Romans carved citrine intaglios and priests wore rings adorned with the gem.
Finally, December’s poem suggests wearing a turquoise to ensure success in all endeavors. The poem also mentions ruby as an ancient December birthstone.
The sources also highlight a distinction between “modern” and “ancient” birthstones. The ancient associations often differed from those popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting evolving cultural beliefs and economic factors. The appeal of vintage and antique birthstone jewelry lies, in part, in its connection to these earlier traditions. The ability to adorn oneself with all of one’s birthstones, rather than just the modern designation, adds a layer of personalization and historical significance.
The standardization of birthstones wasn’t solely about aesthetic preference or historical accuracy. Economic considerations played a role, as evidenced by the substitution of citrine for topaz in November. The desire to make birthstone jewelry accessible to a wider range of consumers influenced these decisions.
The enduring popularity of birthstones, and particularly the romantic appeal of the Gregorian poems, speaks to a deep-seated human desire for meaning and connection. The belief that a gemstone can influence one’s life, offer protection, or symbolize personal qualities continues to resonate with many. Whether viewed as a historical artifact, a romantic tradition, or a source of personal significance, the legacy of the Gregorian birthstone poems remains a vibrant part of the world of gemstones.
Conclusion
The Gregorian birthstone poems represent a fascinating intersection of history, culture, and commerce. Originating from ancient traditions and formalized in the 19th century, these verses provided a memorable framework for associating gemstones with months of the year. While modern birthstone lists have evolved, the poems offer a valuable glimpse into the historical and symbolic significance of these beautiful stones, reminding us of the enduring human fascination with their beauty and perceived powers. The poems continue to offer a unique and personalized way to celebrate birthdays and connect with the rich heritage of gemstone lore.