Many have believed, throughout the years, that gems and minerals possess great spiritual powers.  The idea of the birthstone centers around this concept, in which a specific stone or gem belongs to each month. During its month, the stone would have heightened properties… good vibrations, if you will.  Sometimes called “birthday stones,” this practice of having a special gem goes back through the ages and across cultures.  In the United States, the American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America, officially adopted their list in 1912, standardizing the list of what we now know as birthstones. 

There are many legends that exist on the idea of birthstones, from King Solomon and his magical 12-stoned breastplate, to specific stories about diamonds ("The Philosopher's Stone") and the like.  That’s all well and good, but as commercialism has had its way with many other traditions, the tradition of the birthstone has been appropriately marketed for mass appeal.  While the real deals are true precious gems (and rather pricey), the new age fad of the late 60s sparked a trend in faux stones – colored glass sold in sets that included earrings, necklaces , and occasionally bracelets.  Having a matching set was the quickest way to make a girl feel like… well… a big girl. 

The trend continues to this day, with girls looking to get a set of their very own.  And just in case you now find yourself wondering which stone goes where, here’s a handy-dandy list, just for you:

January = Garnet
February = Amethyst
March = Aquamarine
April = Diamond
May = Emerald
June = Pearl
July = Ruby
August = Peridot
September = Sapphire
October = Opal
November = Yellow Topaz/Citrine
December = Blue Topaz/Turquoise