A Guide to Birthstones - Part One

For hundreds of years, civilizations have associated precious gems and stones with birth dates. This originated from hundreds of years of religion, culture and folklore. Each stone has different properties and myths, which have been with certain months of the year. You can find birthstones on jewellery websites and in local and high street jewelers.

January's stone is Garnet, a protector of those on a journey. It symbolises one's love and wish of well being for those on a voyage. Therefore, it has been considered an appropriate going away present, as well as a gift for those starting out their journey in life. Garnet itself means 'seed' because of its aesthetic likeness to the pomegranate seed. This succulent and vibrant gem promotes a sense of vitality and life. In fact, what is most unique about this gem is that you can find it a multitude of vibrant colours, due to its natural mixture with other elements.

February's stone, the amethyst, is a stabilising force. It has in the past been associated with royalty, sobriety and spirituality. It was once considered to be even above diamonds, due to its emblematic nature as a protector. It was also believed that this stone could give you the power and strength to overcome difficult challenges in life, as well as strengthen relationships. As a symbol of power and personal strength, this hazy purple gem is a wonderful suitor for engagement or commitment rings.

March's gemstone is a mineral associated with the sea due to its mixtures of blue and green. Aquamarine literally means 'water' and 'sea' in Latin, and has been used by sailors as protective talisman during voyage across the wild and untamable sea. For many, this gemstone promotes security and safety in a long term relationship - and can even reawaken passion! Due to these connotations it is often given as a anniversary present. March, unlike the prior months, has an alternative stone -Bloodstone - a gem that is deemed to mean 'courage' because of the belief that Christ's blood was spilt onto the stone.