The wearing of birthstones is thought to bring good luck, good health, and protection. Astrologers long ago attributed supernatural powers to certain gemstones. The January birthstone, garnet, is thought to keep the wearer safe during travel. The word “garnet” is derived from a term that means “seed,” because the gem resembles the color and shape of a pomegranate seed. The February birthstone, amethyst, is said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage. At one time, only royalty could wear the gem. In fact, “amethyst” comes from amethystos, a Greek word meaning “sober.” Ancient Greeks thought that the amethyst guarded against intoxication. The March birthstone, aquamarine, was thought to cure heart, liver, and stomach diseases-all one had to do was drink the water in which the gem had been soaking. Early sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, etched with the likeness of the sea god Neptune, protected them against ocean dangers. The April birthstone, diamond, in addition to being a symbol of everlasting love, was once thought to bring courage.

In Sanskrit, the diamond is called vajra, which also means lightning in Hindu mythology, vajra was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods. The May birthstone, emerald, was one of Cleopatra’s favorite gems. It has long been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience. The June birthstone, pearl, has long been a symbol of purity.

The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The July birthstone, ruby, was regarded by ancient Hindus as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. Today, the ruby’s deep-red color signifies love and passion. The August birthstone, peridot, symbolizes strength. It is sometimes called the “evening emerald” for its light green color. It was once believed that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele.

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