Ever since the first century particular gemstones have been connected with the zodiac signs and have been used in birthstone jewelry. Initially birthstone schemes were based on the color of the gems. The origins of the practice are thought to be related to the Breastplate of Aaron which incorporated gemstones associated with the twelve tribes of Israel. Each stone had the name of the tribe inscribed on it and they were attached to the breastplate in 4 rows of three. Even though the names of the gems that were used are established, the exact translation is controversial so the specific stones that were used are not known. This has led to various stones being associated with the various signs of the zodiac.
More recently birthstones became connected with the months of the year instead of the zodiac signs and there has been a good deal of disparity in the month to which a gem is assigned. The most extensively used list today is the one which was initiated by the Association of Jewelers in America in 1912, and has some substitutes for the higher-priced gemstones. One addition has been made since that time. Tanzanite was assigned to December in 2002 though it is not recognized by everybody.
Other systems which connect distinct gems with the month of birth include mystical birthstones and Ayurvedic birthstones. The mystical birthstones system is thought to date to over ten centuries ago and is from Tibet, the Ayurvedic birthstones system is from ancient Indian philosophy and dates back to around 1500 BC. However the majority use the contemporary systems proposed by the Association of Jewelers.
Contemporary List
* January - emerald, garnet
* February - amethyst
* March - aquamarine
* April - diamond
* May - emerald
* June - pearl, moonstone
* July - ruby
* August - peridot
* September - sapphire
* October - opal, tourmaline
* November - topaz, citrine
* December - tanzanite, topaz, turquiose
Therefore there are several alternatives to select from. If you do not like your birthstone from the modern list, pick one from the traditional listing.There are beautiful examples of silver birthstone jewelry in the shops and they make wonderful birthday gifts for loved ones, that show how much thought we put into choosing a gift that is just right for them.
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