Kendra Scott’s birthstone jewelry represents a contemporary approach to a time-honored tradition – associating gemstones with specific months and their corresponding symbolic meanings. The brand’s collections, particularly the Elisa and Marisa lines, offer a diverse range of gemstone-inspired pendants and jewelry, blending modern design aesthetics with the enduring cultural significance of birthstones. While the available sources primarily focus on product descriptions and brand information, they collectively illuminate the evolution of birthstone lore and Kendra Scott’s interpretation of this tradition. This article explores the gemstones featured in the Kendra Scott collection, their historical context, and the brand’s commitment to design and personalization.
History and Lore of the Collection
The practice of linking gemstones to birth months has ancient roots, evolving over centuries. While the modern standardization of birthstones largely took shape in the 19th and 20th centuries, the underlying belief in the power and symbolism of gemstones dates back to ancient civilizations. Kendra Scott’s collection acknowledges this historical context, presenting each birthstone with a distinct visual identity that aligns with the brand’s aesthetic while respecting the gemstone’s inherent qualities.
The brand itself is relatively modern, but its birthstone collection taps into a long-standing tradition. The collection doesn’t necessarily focus on traditional gemological birthstones, but rather utilizes crystals, glass, and mother of pearl to represent each month, offering a wider range of aesthetic options. This approach allows for greater design flexibility and accessibility, catering to a broader audience.
Gemstone Varieties in the Kendra Scott Collection
Kendra Scott’s birthstone collection features a variety of materials representing each month of the year. These include crystals, glass, and mother of pearl, each chosen for its color and aesthetic appeal. The following is a breakdown of the gemstones used for each month, as detailed in the provided sources:
- January: Burgundy Red Crystal
- February: Purple Crystal
- March: Aqua Crystal
- April: White Cubic Zirconia
- May: Green Crystal
- June: Ivory Mother of Pearl
- July: Burgundy Red Crystal (shared with January)
- August: Peridot Crystal
- September: Blue Crystal
- October: Champagne Opal Crystal
- November: Golden Yellow Crystal
- December: Aqua Crystal or Blue Crystal
It is important to note that the use of “crystal” and “glass” indicates these are not necessarily the traditional gemstones associated with each birth month. For example, while traditional birthstones for July include ruby, Kendra Scott utilizes a burgundy red crystal. Similarly, December’s options include aqua or blue crystal, rather than traditional stones like turquoise or tanzanite. This highlights the brand’s focus on aesthetic representation rather than strict adherence to traditional gemological classifications.
Design and Craftsmanship
Kendra Scott is known for its signature aesthetic of soft colors and delicate designs. This is reflected in the birthstone collection, where each piece is thoughtfully crafted to blend artistry with sentimental value. The Elisa and Marisa collections, in particular, offer a range of styles – from necklaces and earrings to rings and bracelets – making the collection accessible to various tastes and occasions.
The jewelry is available in both gold-plated and rhodium-plated finishes, over a brass base. The Elisa necklace is a particularly popular style, offered alongside coordinating Ellie earrings and Elaina bracelets in each birthstone variation. This allows customers to create cohesive and personalized jewelry sets.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining the luster of Kendra Scott birthstone jewelry requires gentle care. Gold-plated and rhodium-plated pieces are prone to wear over time, especially with frequent use. To preserve the finish, it is advisable to avoid exposure to moisture and store the jewelry in a dry, cool place when not in use.
The sources emphasize the importance of storing pieces separately to prevent scratches and damage. Harder materials, such as crystals, can scratch softer surfaces if stored together. Using individual compartments or soft pouches is recommended. Regular inspection of the settings and clasps is also advised, and any damage should be addressed by a professional repair service.
Symbolism and Personalization
Kendra Scott’s birthstone jewelry is designed to be more than just a fashion accessory; it’s a meaningful piece that celebrates individuality and personal milestones. The ability to connect with the meaning of one’s own or a loved one’s birthstone adds a layer of sentimentality to the jewelry.
While the sources do not delve deeply into the specific symbolism associated with each gemstone, the act of wearing a birthstone is often seen as a way to harness its perceived energies and benefits. The collection’s emphasis on personalization allows wearers to express their unique identity and celebrate important relationships.
Conclusion
Kendra Scott’s birthstone collection offers a stylish and thoughtful way to celebrate the significance of gemstones in both personal and cultural contexts. The collection showcases a diverse range of gemstone-inspired options, blending traditional symbolism with modern aesthetics. While the sources do not provide detailed gemological data, they highlight the brand’s commitment to quality, design, and customer satisfaction. By combining a contemporary aesthetic with the enduring appeal of birthstone lore, Kendra Scott creates jewelry that is both meaningful and wearable, serving as a celebration of individuality and the enduring power of personal connection.