What is a Birthstone?
Who doesn’t like an excuse to either receive or buy themselves a gift? Here’s another: birthstones. What is a birthstone? Well legend (or google) says that birthstones have a biblical source, where 12 gemstones represented the twelve tribes of Israel at the time.
"There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes." (Exodus 28:17-20)
I can already hear some people saying “but like, I don’t read the Bibile/not Christian/I’m an Atheist etc.” Don’t worry, we’re not here to discuss your faith, or unfaith? (I’m not really sure what you’re supposed to say if you don’t have one…) BUT back to the point: a stone for your birthday! Who cares why… it’s another “personal” gift idea.
Birthstone Guide by Month.
January: Garnet
February Birthstone: Amethyst
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
April Birthstone: Diamond
May Birthstone: Emerald
June Birthstone: Pearl or Alexandrite
July Birthstone: Ruby
August Birthstone: Peridot
September Birthstone: Sapphire
October Birthstone: Tourmaline or Opal
November Birthstone: Topaz or Citrine
December Birthstone: Tanzanite or Turquoise
The January Birthstone:
Since it’s January, your birthstone is Garnet! Never heard of it? Don’t worry, that’s what we’re for. The name “garnet” originates from the latin word Garanatus,” which means seedlike = pomegranate. The gem literally looks like the bright red seeds you find in a pomegranate.
In the good old days… the medieval times, the stone was thought to be a cure for depression, protect against bad dreams, and relieve your liver of any diseases. In Greek mythology, a pomegranate is referenced as a gift of love and is associated with eternity.
Virtues of the stone include passion, true friendship, fidelity, success, self-esteem, loyalty, devotion, energy, faith, consistency & truth… all qualities you're probably looking for in a partner, right?
The details you'll probably want to know:
Garnet is one of the few untreated gems available in a whole range of colors, although most commonly in red. Otherwise they come in shades of purple, brown, orange, pink, yellow, green, gray and black.
Where are they found? Africa, India, Russia, South America, Madagascar, Pakistan and the United States.
How much does Garnet cost? That depends greatly on the color, quality and cut of the gem. Loose stones could sell for about 30$/carat but they range up to 100$/carat. The more exceptional and rare stones could sell for 500$/carat.
How do you clean Garnet? Warm soapy water and a soft brush. They’re really durable and resistant to chipping & scratching, so if you’re a little bit of a klutz… this gem would be great for you.
