Happy Birthday to all those born in March!

The next stone up in my birthstone series is  the gemstone Aquamarine.

Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is also the astrological birthstone for those born under the zodiac sign of Aries.

Derived from Latin word aqua = water,  and marina = the sea, Aquamarine is known as the sailors’ lucky stone.  Legend has it that aquamarine was originally found in the treasure chest of mermaids  So, this gemstone was believed to protect sailors and guarantee safe travels.

Aquamarine comes in a range of colors with the most common ranging from almost colorless to pale blue to sky blue.  Folklore indicates that this serene blue stone keeps the wearer calm. Aquamarine is also thought to empower those who wear the stone with intelligence, courage, and happiness.

According to the folklore of sailors, the aquamarine originated in the treasure chest of mermaids, and has, since ancient times, been regarded as the sailors’ lucky stone and protected against the dangers of the sea.  Some even thought that the mermaids’ tails were made of aquamarine.

Bloodstone – the alternative birthstone for March

A dark-green jasper flecked with vivid red spots of iron oxide, bloodstone (also known as heliotrope) was believed to have healing powers and was often used in the making of amulets. The bloodstone was also thought to generate a change in one’s life.  The bloodstone is also known as a symbol of justice.

While birthstone gems are commonly known, there are flowers associated with one’s birth month as well.  The flower associated for those born in March is the ipomea (morning glory) as well as the violet.

‘Sentiments of The Months’ from a book on gemstone lore by George Frederick Kunz  focuses on the birthstone of bloodstone for this month:

 Who on this world of ours her eyes

In March first opens may be wise,

In days of peril firm and brave

Wears she a bloodstone to her grave.

Who wears a jasper, be life short or long,

Will meet all dangers brave and wise and strong.

Which stone do you prefer – aquamarine or bloodstone?

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Happy Birthday to all those born in February!  The next stone up in my birthstone series is  the gemstone Amethyst.

Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is also the astrological birthstone for those born under the zodiac sign of Pisces.

The word  ‘amethyst’  comes from the Latin word – amethystus -  not intoxicated (or ‘not drunk’ – which led to crushed amethyst being used as a charm to ward off intoxication.

Amethyst is believed to be a meditative and calming stone.  It can bring the wearer emotional stability and inner strength, as well as courage, freedom, enhanced intuition, and, spiritual nourishment.

This gemstone is also thought to be beneficial when dealing with problems of money, which can lead to prosperity and abundance.

While birthstone gems are commonly known, there are flowers associated with one’s birth month as well.  The flower associated for those born in February is the primrose.

  ‘Sentiments of The Months’ from a book on gemstone lore by George Frederick Kunz:

The February-born may find

Sincerity and peace of mind,

Freedom from passion and from care,

If she an amethyst will wear

Let her an amethyst but cherish well,

And strife and care can never with her dwell.

What is your birthstone?

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Being totally obsessed with gemstones, (and anything that sparkles for that matter) it seems only natural to start a blog post series on gemstones and their folklore.  So….here we go!

Garnet, the birthstone for January,  is also the astrological birthstone for those born under the zodiac sign of Aquarius.

The word  Garnet  comes from the Latin word – granatum (seed), or granatus (having many seeds) – due to the gem’s strong resemblance to pomegranate seeds.

Folklore surrounds the Garnet – some believed the stone to be a talisman and protector – illuminating the night, and protecting the wearer from evil – and so, it became a common amulet for travelers.

Garnet is also said to provide strength, inspiration, compassion, creativity & rejuvenation.    In earlier times, garnets were exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to insure that they meet again.

While birthstone gems are commonly known, there are flowers associated with one’s birth month as well.  The flower associated for those born in January is the snowdrop.

Aside from charts and articles I have collected over the years, the majority of the information for this post (and future posts)  comes from a wonderful used book I found on gemstones by George Frederick Kunz.  My  favorite section of this book contains the most charming short poems for each month – ‘Sentiments of The Months’:

January

No gems save garnets should be worn

By her who in this month is born;

They will insure her constancy,

True friendship and fidelity.

The gleaming garnet holds within its sway

Faith, constancy, and truth to one always.

Up next for this series is Amethyst – my favorite stone – I love, love, love purple!

What are your favorite gemstones?  Let me know in the comments below… they may show up in my spring gemstone jewelry line (coming soon)….

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