One of the most common beliefs in the tradition of birthstones, is that the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial religious garment which represented the twelve tribes of Israel and was described in the Book of Exodus, originated the connection of the twelve gemstones.

Around the 5th century, Christian scholars made a connection between the months of the year, twelve zodiac signs and the twelve gems in the Breastplate of Aaron. They concluded that each gem was connected to the twelve months of the year and all the associated zodiac signs. These scholars theorized that they would acquire therapeutic benefits from wearing one of the gems during the given time they associated the gem with.

In 1912 an official birthstone chart was created by the National Association of Jewelers, so what is your birthstone?

January – Garnet

Meaning: This stone has many representations such as friendship, protection, and trust. Named after the Latin ‘granatum’ meaning “seed” which refers to its resemblance to a pomegranate seed. Many believe that it has the ability to give the wearer eternal happiness, health, and wealth.

February – Amethyst

Meaning: According to the Ancient people of Greece, this stone is said to protect whoever wears it from drunkenness and allows that person to maintain a balanced mindset. It is often associated with qualities of peace, courage, and stability. Amethyst has also become known as the “Jewel of the Gods.”

March – Aquamarine

Meaning: Aquamarine is believed to enhance communication and promote clarity. Its intense color has been known to be a symbol of everlasting youth, health, and hope.

April – Diamond

Meaning: The diamond is arguably one of the most famous and beautiful birthstones. The diamond is most commonly associated with everlasting love. Since it is one of the hardest materials on earth, it symbolizes strength and courage.

May – Emerald

Meaning: The Emerald, deep and rich in green, represents youth, growth, and intelligence. These stones are considered to be a strong symbol of rebirth and love. Although many birthstones are rare, the emerald is widely considered to be the rarest of them all.

June – Pearl & Alexandrite

Meaning: Pearl is the primary birthstone of June. It represents purity and imagination, though its meaning can change based on the color. Alexandrite, the gemstone, has been thought to represent good fortune, luck, and of course love. The popular gemstone has also been said to strengthen creativity, intuition, and the imagination of the wearer.

July – Ruby

Meaning: Known as the “King of Gemstones,” the ruby is valued for its bright red color and represents passion, energy, and love. This gem comes from the ‘corundum’ mineral species, known to represent health and wisdom. It is also said that wearing a ruby brings the owner good fortune.

August – Peridot

Meaning: This gemstone has historic “powers” for healing and warding off nightmares. Legend tells us that peridot is believed to inspire power and influence.

September – Sapphire

Meaning: During the Middle Ages, the sapphire was believed to protect those close to you from harm while also representing loyalty and trust. Also a variety of corundum, sapphires are generally thought to be a rich blue, though they can be many different colors (except for red, as red becomes classified as a ruby.)

October – Tourmaline & Opal

Meaning: Pink tourmaline is the primary hue of tourmaline associated with the month of October, symbolizing humanitarianism and love. There is a secondary birthstone for October, its known as the Opal, and it’s known to represent faithfulness and confidence.

November – Citrine & Topaz

Meaning: Citrine holds a warm color that is thought to be from the sun, offering healing powers in legend. To possess a topaz brings true love and fidelity, friendship, and a gentle nature, bestowing the gifts of courage and wisdom, and success in all endeavors.

December – Tanzanite, Turquoise, & Zircon

Meaning: All three of these stones come in a blue color. Tanzanite is a cool blue or purple gemstone that soothes and calms. Turquoise is perhaps the oldest stone in man’s history, it embodies power, wisdom, luck, protection, and immortality. Prehistoric Native Americans used turquoise rocks and jewelry in ceremonies to symbolize “the god of the sky alive in the earth.” Zircon is believed to have the ability to increase one’s self-confidence, and to aid the wearer in loving the self as well as others, as it is said to open the heart and bring compassion.

If you are searching for the perfect birthstone for yourself or a loved one, visit Precious Metals Refinery and talk with our professional experts to help you find the perfect gift.