Birthstones have a long history; as far back as the first century, Jewish historians were proclaiming a connection between birthstones and the gemstones on the breastplate of Aaron. The popularity of actually wearing your birthstone did not become popular until 15th century Poland. Polish tradition stated that you should have 12 unique pieces of your birthstone and rotate them out each month. Today, few such traditions still exist; nevertheless, buying jewelry containing your birthstone is still popular.

November Birthstone

Traditionally the November birthstone has been the Topaz, however over the years Citrine has become an acceptable and more affordable substitute. You can find all kinds of jewelry proudly displaying either of these yellow stones, from adult sized Topaz and Diamond to a simple child’s Topaz ring it has never been more fashionable to wear your birthstone.

There are many options if you are looking for birthstone jewelry for yourself or someone special.

* 14 k Gold Basket stud earrings with citrine
* Sterling silver eternity band with Citrine
* Open circle pendant with topaz
* Handmade November birthstone bracelets with Swarovski crystal

As you can see there are any number of gift ideas when it comes to the November birthstone, the above examples are but a few examples. You can also find earrings of all shapes and sizes, charms for bracelets and even beads you can use to create your own special designs with, that all contain topaz or citrine stones.

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Opal is one of October’s birth stones
Queen among Gems

Achievement and hope are among the positive values attributed to Opal which is also known as an Eve of the Gods. Water is among its principal elements as it is scientifically recognized as hydrated silica. What makes it special are the three-dimensional silica spheres formed when water percolate amid sediments of volcanic ash. This process in effect fossilizes the dissolved silica of bones, shells and woods, eventually leading to the opal formation. Because of its structural formation, opal is a delicate gemstone that needs careful handling so that its innate beauty could be preserved and enjoyed.

Lore

While it is quite delicate, opal is regarded as a bringer of robust energy and psychic power, as well as a gem of romance and love, serving likewise as a talisman empowering the pursuit of personal wishes and happiness. Perhaps wearing opal jewelry will help you smile more. The citizens of ancient Rome were the first to recognize this gem’s as a tiding of good fortune, calling the stone opalus. Before the 16th century opal was exclusively sourced from Czechoslovakia (now split into Czech Republic and Slovakia). Spanish conquistadors later discovered opal in the Aztec civilization of South America, which resulted in the appearance of this gem stone in royal crowns in Europe.

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Tourmaline is the other birthstone for October

Jewelry boxes of many noted artists and writers, for instance, hold the gemstone tourmaline, which is widely regarded as a charm that enhances creativity. Tourmaline jewelry is also used for Leo in the Zodiac sign and a keepsake for those marking their eighth wedding anniversary.

Colors

Its name was derived from the Sri Lankan phrase “tura mali,” which means a stone of mixed colors. Prized tourmalines are those that are dichroic, which at different angles display different colors. Combinations of colors that only Nature could possibly conceive make tourmaline truly an inspiring stone; it could be pink in one end and green at the other, while some may be pink inside and green outside. This stone offers a riot of colors ranging from yellow, lime, dark brown to red. The most highly priced are the pink rubellite, green verdelite and the blue indicolite.

The chrome tourmaline is often mistaken for an emerald because its chromium content produces an exquisite green hue that is also similar to tsavorite garnet. In addition to Sri Lanka where it traces its name, tourmaline also comes from mines in several other countries such as Australia, USA, Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Kenya, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Pakistan, where gem aficionados likewise regard it as an elixir to both body and soul; not a pot of gold, but nonetheless priceless treasures.

Whichever birthstone you choose to wear to celebrate October, we know you will be happy with your choice!

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A mesmerizing reflection of the deep blue sky is just one of wonders in appreciating the September birthstone, Sapphire. Sapphire is named after ‘sapphirus’, a greek word which simply means ‘blue’. This precious blue stone is popularly known to symbolize purity and wisdom and have been worn by kings and priests.

Aside from its stunning brilliance and quality, sapphire enjoys a high ranking in terms of popularity. There is a belief on an existing legend about these precious stones being used as the stone tablets upon which the ten commandments were inscribed. Then, in the modern times, sapphire grabbed the headlines by being chosen by Prince Charles as his engagement ring with Princess Diana.

This September birthstone is commonly believed to effect powerful protection against envy and poisoning. It is even believed that placing a deadly snake in a vessel made of Sapphire will instantly kill it. Rheumatism, mental illness, a weakening eyesight and colic are just some of the illnesses this gemstone allegedly can cure.

Sapphire is a mineral corundum variety, which can be seen in different colors. However the most desired Sapphire hue is a deep, rich blue. India’s 563-carat is the largest and most popular star Sapphire, placed on exhibit at American Museum of Natural History. Presently, sapphire can be mined from Sri Lanka, Australia, Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar and Thailand.

Looking for the best way to profess sincere love and faithfulness? Sapphire jewelry is known to symbolize these virtues. In making a promise to give the heavens for one’s true love, don’t forget to bring the Sapphire.

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What Does My Birthstone Mean?

Your birth month has something to say about you, and what else could tell you best but your birthstone? Not only do birthstones hold relevant meanings, they make good accessories as well. Below are some birthstone meanings you might want to know, while flaunting your glittering accessories.

Garnet – The January Birthstone

Burgundy red in color, garnet is a mesmerizing piece of birthstone jewelry. It derives its name from the Roman word “granatum”, a word which signifies the pomegranate fruit. Garnet was most probably named after the pomegranate because of its likeness to its seeds. It is said to represent faith and courage, and can enhance a person’s popularity when worn. It is also said to bring good luck to business.

Amethyst – The February Birthstone

This birthstone is a variety of quartz, and possesses a vibrant purple hue. The Greeks believed amethyst to prevent intoxication, and often wore it when drinking. It was also once used in adorning crowns, particularly those of the British royalty. Amethyst is said to signify peace and spiritual wisdom, and is believed to cure headaches and insomnia, as well as bring good dreams.

Aquamarine – The March Birthstone

Aquamarine, as its name suggests, is translucent blue. It symbolizes safety and serenity, and has been used by those who travel by sea to guarantee a safe passage. It also means everlasting youth, and is said to help you get in touch with your inner child when worn.

Diamond – The April Birthstone

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” says a song. But aside from its flawless beauty, have you ever wondered why this April birthstone is often used to express love? It’s most probably because its name comes from the Latin words “Dio”, which means God, and “amante”, which means love. Simply put, a diamond symbolizes “divine love”. It also represents innocence and constancy – both desirable attributes of love.

Emerald – The May Birthstone

Its rich green color makes emerald one of the most favorite birthstones out there. It is often used in making accessories like rings, bracelets, and necklaces. It is said to boost one’s intelligence, and heal the heart. some say it helps people become more healthy or flexible depending on the tradition.

Pearl – The June Birthstone

In ancient times, pearls were believed to be a mixture of moonlight and dewdrops, particularly because of its iridescence. Pearls are a product of shelled mollusks, but the most beautiful ones come from oysters. They are said to signify longevity, but some people also believe that giving them as gifts would bring tears to the recipient.

Legend has it that pearl jewelry helps one feel the love the giver has for them and helps them accept that love. That is what the are a favorite gift to give to loved ones.

Ruby – The July Birthstone

Because of its fiery crimson color, ruby is associated with passionate love. It is believed to bring good luck to one’s endeavors in romance, and is often used as ring ornaments. Ruby is unusual as it seems to be the July birthstone across many many traditions including Ayurvedic which is over 1000 years old.

Peridot – The August Birthstone

This birthstone boasts olive green hues, which does not grow dim at night. Though it is a very common stone, it is hard to find high gem quality peridot. It was originally found in Egypt, and is believed to drive away evil spirits. It also brings forth good luck. Some say that this gem will help dreams become a reality.

Sapphire – The September Birthstone

With its radiant blue hue, sapphire was once believed to be the source of the sky’s color. Sapphire comes in many colors besides blue such as: yellow, pink and orange. Red sapphire is actually ruby.

Sapphire means lotus blossom. It is a symbol wisdom and truth. It also signifies commitment and loyalty, and is a popular choice of jewelry.

Opal – The October Birthstone

With its ability to refract light, opal is most enjoyed for the array of colors it displays. Its vivid flashes of color is sure to enchant any pair of eyes that fixes its gaze upon it. Shakespeare even used it as his muse once. Similar to its play of colors, this birthstone is also associated with delight.

Most high quality opal comes from Australia. Some say that opal helps one see more of the available possibilities.

Citrine – The November Birthstone

This birthstone’s name comes from the French word for lemon, “citron”. It is the most abundant mineral, and signifies light-heartedness. One often wears citrine to have more happiness enter their lives. Some also call it the “jewel of the sun”.

Turquoise – The December Birthstone

Turquoise has a blue-green color that has been used as an ornament as early as the time of the pharaohs. It is said to be a stone of power, one that could amplify the strength of the person who wears it. Contrary to its powerful image, however, turquoise is easily damaged by chemical agents like soap, and is advised to be kept with care to avoid discoloration.

And there you have the twelve birth stones that represent the twelve months of the year. With all these birthstone jewelry trivia, who wouldn’t want to wear them? For all we know, they might be the good luck we’ve been waiting for.

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With a vibrant green spark, the August birthstone, which is popularly known as Peridot, symbolizes vitality and growth. The term originated from the word ‘faridat’, from the Arabic language which means ‘gem’. The brilliance of this precious crystals are said to be stunningly visible when reflected by the sun, earning them the title ‘gem of the sun’ as boasted by the ancient Egyptians.

The peridot is also closely associated with nature because of its green color. Cups are made out of this gem and are filled with ‘soma’, a stimulating beverage which are then drank by Egyptian priests in the early times. They believed that doing such would make them closer to the goddess of nature, Isis.

In Hawaii, crystals of this August birthstone were found by the natives along the black sands of the beach. Released from the Earth’s depths through a volcanic activity, the natives referred to the Peridot as tears shed by the volcano goddess, Pele.

An olivine mineral, peridot comes in different shades of green. Some have light yellowish green shine while others can be in a dark olive sparkle. This crystal is believed to have protective powers against evil and can help prevent unpleasant dreams when set with gold as jewelry. It also has curative powers for asthma. Presently, Peridot can be mined in the countries of Norway, Burma, Australia, Brazil, Arizona and Hawaii.

To ensure growth of a blossoming relationship as well as vitality for one’s business venture, giving Peridot jewelry as a present is most beneficial. It also effectively nurture the individual’s strength and can give good luck to every beginnings.

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With a fiery red sparkle, the July birthstone called Ruby righteously symbolizes passion and love. The ancient Hindus call this precious gem ‘Rajnapura’ which means ‘King of Gems’ being one of the most costly stone throughout history. A magical power attributed to ruby jewelry is that of warding off evil spirits. Worn by the right owner, it can change its redness into a deeper darker hue whenever danger is approaching, and turns back to the original state when the danger is past. It is often converted into talismans and worn by the royal ruler as a protection to their throne.

Ancient tribes are known to have pounded this July birthstone into powder, and lodged onto their tongues to cure indigestion. Rubies represent power and heat. They are often used as blowguns and are put in pots of water to hasten the boiling process.

Ruby is a type of mineral which is a falls under the category of Corundum, the next hardest mineral following the diamond. It is formed as crystals which developed within the spaces of metamorphic rock. Needless to say, the bigger a ruby is, the more expensive it will cost because it rarely develops on big sizes. It can exude different color ranges, from orangey red to those with a purplish red shade. The most preferred ruby is the one with a true red color. Excellent qualities of rubies can be found in the countries of Kenya, Australia, India, Pakistan and the United States.

The July birthstone jewelry or ruby is a nice gift to represent one’s undying affection, as its fiery, bloody-red sparkle resembles passion on fire.

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June is the time for weddings, the perfect occasion to wear the creamy white June birthstone jewelry – a pearl necklace.

This precious jewelry is created in the ocean depths with a process as mystifying as it looks. Whenever a mussel, clam or an oyster gets irritated by an intruder, in the form of a parasite or a small fish, it produces a protective layering substance called the ‘nacre’. Over a long period of time, this layer of nacre develops into a shimmering lustrous pearl.

Pearls can be harvested from the oceans of the South Pacific Islands, the Persian Gulf and Japan.

People have been obsessed with pearls throughout the ages. They grind and use these gems as cosmetic components and as treatment for stomach ailments. They also use pearls to decorate temples, crowns and clothing. Pearls are even thought to have aphrodisiac effects.

The pearl symbolizes innocence and purity. It stands against the thoughts of materialism and greed as suggested in a story by John Steinbeck, in a book entitled ‘The Pearl.’ Every fair lady wearing simple white dresses with a pearl jewelry is a sight to behold, and is used most of the times, as a subject in paintings and photography. In modern times, the conventional practice of wearing pearls is mixed with the latest fashion creations, giving them an eclectic trend.

As a nature’s gift, the June birthstone jewelry is used for marriage celebrations and for rejoicing the birth of a child. The pearl can now bestow good taste and refinement to anyone who wears it, once enjoyed solely by the nobility.

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With a refreshing brilliant green color, the Emerald fairly represents the springtime in May. This May birthstone is composed of tiny inclusions or fractures that closely resemble a foliage or a garden because of their greenish hue. In the ancient times, the Egyptians used to create foliage symbols by engraving with these gems to represent eternal youth. These engraved jewels were then buried with the dead.

Cleopatra wore lavish embellishments of emerald, this precious stone being her favorite jewelry. These breath-taking crystals were mined by the ancient Egyptians under the extreme conditions of desert heat, snakes and scorpions. The mines were claimed by Cleopatra as her own, during her reign, as she took extreme fascination to the green gems. It was noted how Cleopatra often gifted her visitors with this May birthstone, carved in her image.

A large emerald is usually very expensive as it is very rare. Growing within metamorphic rocks, the slow development and the growth in size is often restricted by the rock. Hence, finding a big stone is a very special condition increasing the emerald’s value. Care must be observed to protect it from hard blows because it is possible to get broken, due to the inclusions within.

It is often believed that an Emerald jewelry can bring wisdom, patience and growth to its wearer. May birthstone jewelry is best presented as a gift by a lover who would want to incorporate all of the mentioned virtues in the present relationship. After all, who does not wish for love to be strong and to endure all things.

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The hardest among all the other substances found on Earth, Diamond is the April birthstone. This diamond jewelry is referred to by the ancient Hindus as ‘vajra’ to mean ‘lightning’. It is quite understandable why this gem would gain such reputation as the sparkle of lights from this stone resembles none other than the lightning. This flashes of light and the interplay of flashes through reflection and refraction makes this precious stones remarkably stunning.

Throughout history, diamonds are used as ornamental parts of crowns, emblems and swords. The practice of recognizing any 50th year anniversary as a ‘diamond celebration’ started from Queen Victoria. She declared as a ‘Diamond Jubilee’ her celebration for reaching the 50th year of her reign. In the middle ages, diamonds are used for healing purposes. This April birthstone was believed to have the powers to heal sickness, with the queer practice of warming the stone first by bringing it to bed.

The uniqueness and rarity of a diamond can be explained by its source. This gem is a crystallized carbon which can only be formed deep under the earth through extreme heat and pressure. It was brought to the surface of the earth by volcanic activities which occurred centuries ago. Under these extreme conditions, a diamond is definitely as precious as a miracle. This April birthstone can be primarily found in Africa, the Soviet Union and Australia.

With its durability, hardness and the special circumstances of its origin, a diamond is used to symbolize an everlasting love. As a symbolic pledge for a true and enduring love, the diamond is wished for by women all over the world.

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Resembling the pale blue color of the sea, the Aquamarine is considered as the March birthstone. ‘Aqua’ is a word with a Roman origin which means ‘water’ and ‘mare’ in Roman refers to the ‘sea’. Being such, the precious stone of Aquamarine is considered favored by the Roman god of the sea, Neptune. These gems are thought to have fallen from the sirens’ jewel boxes and are carried by the waves to the shore. Sailors seek protection form the dangers of the sea by wearing Aquamarine as talismans, engraved with the image of Neptune.

It has also been said that this March birthstone gains more strength and power whenever immersed in water. The water is then to be used for healing different ailments of the mouth, throat, liver, stomach and heart. Consequently, Aquamarine is also used as an antidote to poisons and can be an effective medium in telling one’s fortune.

Most of the Aquamarine stones are flawless. The color ranges from deep blue-green to lighter sky-blue. Belonging to the Beryl family, a group of mineral known for its hardness and formed by igneous rock crystallization, Aquamarine is durable for use as a jewelry constituent.

As a gift, it is believed to strengthen a weakening love relationship much like reawakening a dying love. It is for this reason that this March birthstone is often used as a very symbolic peace offering among lovers. March birthstone jewelry is desirable not only for its curative powers in deteriorating relationships but also for its mythical power to ensure security and safety.

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