In this comprehensive article, Ella Ray Jewellery delve into the captivating history of birthstone jewellery and how each month’s symbolism has been masterfully incorporated into our exclusive collections. Join us on a journey of discovery as we unveil the fascinating origins, stunning designs, and the spiritual allure of birthstone jewellery.
Gemstones have been used in jewellery for centuries, and one common way of selecting a gemstone is based on the recipient's birth month. Birthstone jewellery, hold special meaning and symbolism, making them popular choices for personal and meaningful jewellery pieces.
The practice of associating gemstones with birth months dates back to ancient times, with different cultures having their own unique set of birthstones. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that certain gemstones held mystical powers and properties that were connected to the zodiac signs and birth months.
Over time, the list of birthstones has evolved and expanded, with the National Association of Jewellers in the United States standardizing the list of modern birthstones in 1912. Today, the list of birthstones varies depending on different traditions and cultures, but the most commonly recognized list is the modern birthstone list which consists of 12 gemstones, each one associated with a specific month.
Whether chosen for their beauty or their symbolism, birthstones continue to hold a
special place in the world of jewellery and are cherished by many as treasured personal items.
Gems for Every Month: The Rich Tapestry of Birthstone Traditions Across Cultures
The concept of birthstones and the stones associated with each month has been
around for centuries, opal representing October, topaz for November and so on and as a result, different cultures have developed their own unique lists of birthstones. The origin and meaning behind each list vary, but they all share a common goal of associating a specific gemstone with a person's birth month.
One reason why different lists of birthstones have evolved is due to geographical and cultural differences. For example, the ancient Hindu and Ayurvedic birthstone lists differ from the Western birthstone list, with each culture attributing different meanings and properties to the gemstones.
Another reason for the variation in birthstone lists is due to changes in the availability and popularity of certain gemstones over time. For example, the modern birthstone list, includes gemstones such as turquoise and lapis lazuli, which were not commonly used in jewellery at the time of their selection in 1912 but gained popularity in the following decades.
Additionally, the marketing and commercialization of birthstones have also influenced the evolution of the lists. Jewellery manufacturers and retailers have promoted different gemstones as birthstones, often based on their availability and affordability.
Overall, the evolution of birthstone lists reflects the diverse cultural, historical, and commercial influences on the selection and use of gemstones in jewellery.
The current list of birthstones that represent each month in the UK is based on the modern birthstone list. This consists of 12 gemstones, each one associated with a specific month, and is widely recognized and used in the UK and many other countries around the world.
The current list of birthstones in the UK is as follows:
· January: Garnet
· February: Amethyst
· March: Aquamarine
· April: Diamond
· May: Emerald
· June: Pearl, Alexandrite, or Moonstone
· July: Ruby
· August: Peridot
· September: Sapphire
· October: Opal or Tourmaline
· November: Topaz or Citrine
· December: Turquoise, Tanzanite, or Zircon
It's worth noting that some variations and alternatives to this list exist, particularly in alternative healing and spiritual practices. However, the modern birthstone list remains the most widely recognized and used in the UK.
Birthstones make both a thoughtful and meaningful gift- explore our selection here.