Tag Archives: birthstone

What are Birth Stone’s, and why do we wear them?

birthstone image

Birth stones are gems that are associated with a birth month. These 12 stones are so popular, that if you ask someone: “What’s your birth stone”? They will almost always know the answer.

The origins of birth stones date back to the1st and 5th centuries.  It is believed that in these times, people began linking gems to the 12 months of the year and to the 12 signs of the zodiac. These stones were presumed to have special powers if worn during each corresponding astrological month. The belief was so strong that people began to collect all 12 stones to wear each month.

It is thought that associating of one gem to each month began in Poland in the 18th century, and these stones are known as the traditional birthstones. In the U.S., there was much disagreement between which stone is assigned to each month so, in an effort to standardize birthstones, The National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) got together and officially adopted a list in 1912. These are known as modern birthstones.

As you can see, the custom of wearing your birth stone is only a few centuries old.  Jewelers are still making changes to the birth stone charts, and as a result, some people choose stones from both the modern and the traditional list.

In honor of July, lets talk about the Ruby

The traditional and modern birth stone of July is the ruby.  This red gem is associated with love, passion, wealth, and peace.  The ruby is one of the most popular traditional jewelry stones.  It is custom for a person to wear their birth stone all year long weather it be in a ring, necklace, or earrings. 

While it is believed wearing your birth stone is a symbol of good fortune and wellness, it is my belief that each person selects a gemstone that calls to them.  If you want a protective stone that can bring happiness and spiritual vitality into your life, just wear a ruby, even if it isn’t your birth stone.