Just For Fun...

BIRTHSTONES & THEIR HISTORY

• January - Garnet
• It's believed that the name of this rich, red gem was inspired by the luscious, red fruit of the pomegranate. Garnets are symbolic of love and devotion. They are also rumored to keep the wearer safe from harm.
• February - Amethyst
• Purple, a color often identified with royalty, was a favorite among kings and pharaohs, thus, amethysts were prominently featured in crown jewels. Amethysts were also associated with Dionysus, the Greek God of wine. In ancient Rome, they were worn to prevent intoxication and bring the wearer tranquility.
• March - Aquamarine
• These sea-blue gems bear the Greek name for sea water and were believed to be the treasures of mermaids. Rumored to prevent aging, aquamarines have been used to cure everything from hiccups to laziness.
• April - Diamond
• Pure carbon, diamonds are one of the earth's most common and oldest elements. Diamonds were originally formed under intense heat and pressure deep in the earth. Millions of years ago, volcanic forces pushed them to the surface where they were scattered along rivers and oceans. Diamonds are the hardest substance found in the world and have always represented inner strength and courage.
• May - Emerald
• The vivid color of emeralds represents rebirth and symbolizes the beauty of Spring. They are also prized for their ability to reveal true love.
• June - Pearl
• The regal pearl was believed to possess life-restoring powers. There are many different types of pearls including freshwater, saltwater and cultured. Pearls are also an ideal gift for brides.
• July - Ruby
• Rubies are rare and extremely valuable, sometimes exceeding the cost of diamonds. Synonymous with royalty, throughout history majestic rubies have been presented during coronations.
• August - Peridot
• Formed from fire and found in rocks near volcanoes, legend has it that Peridots are tears belonging to the goddess of volcanoes, Pele. This soft, green gem was also worn as protection against evil spirits.
• September - Sapphire
• Ancient myths described that the earth rested on a giant sapphire whose brilliant color was reflected in the sky. The sapphire was once worn by the world's most famous emperors and kings to protect themselves from harm and envy. Sapphires can be found in all colors ranging from assorted blues to pinks and yellows. Sapphires are the second hardest substance on earth.
• October - Opal
• Considered a symbol of hope, opals were believed to have fallen to the earth in a fiery flash of lightening. Opals are also believed to possess the mysterious wonders of the skies in their colorful depths. Opals are one of the few gemstones that are sedimentary in origin.
• November - Citrine
• The French word for lemon, citrines are one of the most affordable gems on the market. Citrines are believed to symbolize happiness and were believed to be a gift from the sun. Citrines have also been used as an antidote for snake venom, as well as a talisman against the plague, bad skin and evil thoughts. They are believed to aid digestion as well as remove toxins from the body.
• December - Topaz
• This stone is actually brown when mined, but turns a pale blue when exposed to heat. Topaz is believed to strengthen the mind. Originally used in Ancient Egypt, this stone's popularity grew tremendously during the Middle Ages. Topaz represents fidelity and was often given to new couples.