History of Birthstones - Traditional Birthstones

In Rome, they say that a sapphire can inspire devotion, loyalty and fidelity (now I know why Roman husbands gave sapphire rings to their wives). In England, aquamarine is considered to be the healer of all ailments. Indians consider the ruby to be one of the most powerful protectors, from any impending harm. From ancient times, gemstones have been believed to be possessing mysterious special powers.

Brief History of Birthstones

The first written records for the use of birthstones, comes from the book of 'Exodus', in the 'Old Testament'. It is agreed by most historians and scholars, that the initial use of gemstones for tapping their powers, probably began form the breastplate of the Hebrews' High Priest. It had various gemstones set in a 4x3 pattern in gold filigree. The twelve gemstones were supposed to have been representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Some differing scholars also believe them to be depicting the 12 signs of zodiac. Despite this being the first ever written record on the use of gemstones, it is said that wearing birthstones actually became popular in Poland, in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Gemstone artifacts dated from the prehistoric times, have been recovered by archaeologists. Even the Incas and Montezumas seem to have believed in their powers. The Egyptian Pharaohs also used them as talismans. It has been believed since ages, that gemstones are capable of affecting character, health and fortunes.

Different cultures present different lists of birthstones for a specific purpose, month or zodiac. Though there are differing opinions on this as well, most agree that the first list may have been Tibetan. Though the proper way of assigning gemstones is according to astrological sign and not on birth month, monthly birthstones are also very popular today. It is an ancient belief that goes - 'the best way to assign a stone, is to find one that talks to you'.

Traditional Birthstones

Below, I present one list that states the favorable birthstones according to month and astrological signs. It pays to remember, that birthstones have the powers to heighten your good traits, as well as your bad ones, so it is best to start wearing one only after an astrological consultation.

January: Traditionally, the Hebrew, Arabic, Roman and Polish cultures consider garnets to be proper stones for this month. Though the modern theory agrees with the garnet, the star sign of Capricorn (that is active through this month) calls for rubies. Hindus claim January's monthly stone to be the serpent stone.

February: Once again, all the four cultures, the Hebrew, Roman, Arabic and Polish cultures, coincide with the opinion of the modern theories and point at the Amethyst. The sun sign of Aquarius finds the garnet to be most congenial. The Hindus believe that the 'Chandrakanta' is the most favorable stone for this month.

March: The Hebrew, Arab, Polish and Roman cultures believe that a Bloodstone is the best stone for March born people. The modern theories disagree and stress on the benefits on an Aquamarine. An Amethyst is the best stone for a Pisces individual. Hindus consider the gold-sivalinga as the best stone for the March born.

April: The April stone is a diamond according to most modern theories. While the Hebrew, Roman and Arab cultures believe a Sapphire to be best for April, the Polish and Hindu cultures also point at diamonds. It is said that a bloodstone is the best stone for an Aries individual.

May: The Hebrews and the Romans agree that for May, it is the Agate. The Arabs, the Hindus and the Polish believe that Emeralds are the best stones for this month. The modernists agree with the emerald. The star sign of Taurus requires a Sapphire.

June: Modernists say that Moonstones and Alexandrite are the stones for the month of June. Agate works wonders with Gemini people. The Romans and the Hebrews back the Emeralds, while the Arabs and the Hindus stand by their Agates and Pearls respectively.

July: Modern theories back Rubies and so do the Polish and Russian cultures. While the Hebrews and Romans call for an Onyx, the Arabs and Hindus recommend Carnelians and Sapphires respectively. Cancerians should wear Emeralds.

August: Peridots are the stones for August born individuals, according to modern theories. The Polish and Arabic cultures push for a Sardonyx and the Hebrews and Romans recommend a Carnelian. Hindus preach on the use of Rubies. For Leos, astrological recommendations fall on an Onyx.

September: Modern theories hoot for the Sapphire gemstones. All the four cultures (Hebrew, Roman, Polish and Arabic) recommend the use of Peridots, but the Hindus push for Zircon. Virgos should use Carnelians as talismans.

October: Opals and Tourmalines are recommended for October born people, according to the modern theory. Peridots are considered good for Librans. The four traditional cultures harp on the advantages of Aquamarines, for October born individuals. Hindus call on the Corals for the October people.

November: Topaz and Citrine (Quartz) are considered beneficial to those born in November, according to modern gemology. Scorpios should consider using Beryl as it is extremely advantageous for them. The Hindus recommend the use of Cats-Eye while all the four traditional cultures call for the use of Topaz.

December: Modern gemology suggests that Turquoise, Blue Topaz and Tanzanite are good for all those born in December. Topaz is recommended for Saggitarians. While the Hebrews, Romans and Arabs call upon Rubies, the Hindus and Polish advocate the use of Topaz and Turquoise respectively.

Birthstones carry mysterious powers. Try an amethyst for security and peace, a Garnet for constancy and loyalty or a Sapphire for wisdom and calmness. But before you experiment, make sure you have researched on all the precious gems. You see, I'd rather not see you in anger management classes because you wore a gem that increased your impatience and released your anger.