Swarovski dishes on birthstone colors and it’s history and symbolism. What is your birthstone and what characteristics define you?
THE HISTORY AND SYMBOLISM OF BIRTHSTONE COLORS
Birthstone colors were first studied in 1400BC by the Assyrians, followed by the Old and New Testaments, which explored their symbolism and how each was associated with a specific calendar month. Indeed, the Book of Exodus describes the high priest as wearing a breastplate studded with twelve gems representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Likewise, in the Book of Revelation John describes the twelve foundation stones of New Jerusalem. Historical sources from around the world have mentioned, time and again, how various gems possess characteristics that might be helpful to individuals born in a particular month.
With such a rich and fascinating history it’s no wonder that astrologers began making connections to the twelve signs of the Zodiac. After studying the characteristics specific to each colored stone, they ascribed values that may be useful to people born under the corresponding star sign. This gemstone symbolism was recorded for the first time a few hundred years ago by jewelers in Germany and Poland. By 1912, famous jewelry brands had begun publicizing birthstones, with the National Association of Jewelers confirming the definitive stones and colors together with their associated months, signs and symbolic qualities in 1952.
CAPRICORN – SIAM
KEEP THE WEARER SAFE DURING TRAVEL
Those born in January, or under the star sign of the goat, have Siam as their birthstone color. Its deep red color changes under different light sources, just as Capricorns modify their behavior to get ahead. Those who want to improve their status, boost their self-esteem, or even invite romance, will benefit from wearing rich Siam. It symbolizes faith, love and courage, and its properties are said to help build energy levels and prevent nightmares in children.
AQUARIUS – AMETHYST
STRENGTHEN RELATIONSHIPS AND GIVE ITS WEARER COURAGE
Those born in February, or under the star sign of the water-bearer, have Amethyst as their birthstone color. This beautiful purple shade represents royalty. Indeed, there was a time when only those of royal blood were allowed to wear it. The name “amethyst” comes from “amethystos,” which means “avoiding drunkenness,” so the ancient Greeks thought that amethyst protected the wearer against intoxication. It is said to help maintain a level head, while the color’s legendary protective properties extend to warding off general ill-health.
PISCES – AQUAMARINE
CREATIVITY, HOPE AND COURAGE
Those born in March, under the star sign symbolized by Pisces the fish, have Aquamarine as their birthstone color. Ancient legend has it that the sky was once solid and the only pieces of it that still remain are exquisite pale blue gems. Early sailors, meanwhile, believed that aquamarine talismans etched with the likeness of Neptune would protect them from drowning at sea. Pisceans find Aquamarine soothing, something solid to hold onto. Symbolic of positive self-expression, it is said to increase youthfulness, health and happiness, making it the perfect color to enhance radiant good looks.
ARIES – CRYSTAL
EVERLASTING LOVE
Those born in April, under the star sign of the ram, have pure crystal as their birthstone color, representing the diamond. Known as “vajra” (“lightning”) in Sanskrit, the unrivaled strength and clarity of this color boosts the hardheaded and determined Arian’s clearsightedness and conviction when pushing forward to achieve bigger and better objectives. Wearers can harness the ram’s dynamic qualities, as well as enjoy its enduring romantic powers.
TAURUS – EMERALD
FERTILITY, REBIRTH AND LOVE.
Those born in May, or under the star sign of the bull, have Emerald as their birthstone color. Its lush green radiance was said by the ancients to be dewdrops left behind by the bare footsteps of Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, it is thought that emerald signifies faithfulness and fertility in love and passion, along with wisdom and patience. Traditionally believed to have magical properties that kept illness at bay, this color will also enhance Taureans’ natural sensitivity.
GEMINI – LIGHT AMETHYST
PURITY AND HELPS CALM ANXIETY.
Those born in June, or under the star sign of the twins, have Light Amethyst as their birthstone color. Representing purity and childish innocence, gentleness and curiosity, Geminis are expressive, creative, smart and sociable, although sometimes inclined towards nervous anxiety. This cool, silky, and airy color can be used to instill a sense of serenity, grounding them, and providing reassurance.
CANCER – LIGHT SIAM
COURAGE, GOOD LUCK, AND GOOD FRIENDSHIP.
Those born in July, or under the star sign of the crab, have this beautiful shade of red as their birthstone color. Cancerians are known for their loyalty, empathy, intuition and tenacity, but they can be sensitive and emotional; so it is fortunate that as well as symbolizing passion, Light Siam safeguards their most tender emotions, just like the strong shell of the crab. Significantly, ravishing Light Siam encourages Cancerians to enjoy being themselves, safe in the knowledge that it offers protection.
LEO – PERIDOT
GIVES STRENGTH AGAINST NEGATIVITY AND STRESS.
Those born in August, or under the star sign of the lion, have Peridot as their birthstone color, like the gemstone that shares the same name. This stunning olive-green stone was treasured by the ancient Pharoahs, who believed it brought them closer to nature, fostered friendships, attracted love, and brought happiness. Among the benefits of the mesmerizing Peridot color is its ability to reduce stress and anger.
VIRGO – SAPPHIRE
SYMBOLIZES WISDOM AND FAITHFULNESS, AND SHARPENS THE MIND.
Those born in September, or under the star sign of the virgin, have Sapphire as their birthstone color. Once thought to guard against evil and poisoning, this intense blue color was a favorite of priests and kings. Representing purity, loyalty and serenity, it is thought to be resistant to corruption and help to ward off pain. Virgos are known for their attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and deep sense of humanity, so the wearer will benefit from the color’s intense natural energy in both mind and body.
LIBRA – ROSE
ASSOCIATED WITH EMPATHY, TENDERNESS AND CREATIVITY.
Those born in October, or under the star sign of the weighing scales, have Rose as their birthstone color. Rose stands for emotional tenderness, empathy, and deep sensibility. These are key characteristics of Librans, whose innate tact and diplomacy allow them to build bridges, mend fences, restore trust, and get along even with people others might find difficult. They also love beauty and peace—qualities especially evoked by the harmonious Rose tone.
SCORPIO – TOPAZ
BELIEVED TO AID THE INTELLECT AND WARD OFF NEGATIVITY.
Those born in November, or under the star sign of the scorpion, have orange-toned Topaz as their birthstone color. Topaz is known as the “stone of the mind,” the superstition surrounding this fiery orange gem led to a belief in its ability to cure mental illness. It embodies the many virtues of passionate, determined Scorpios, who are society’s natural leaders. Wearers of the color Topaz are said to find it easier to assert themselves, to be resourceful, and to navigate misunderstandings. This is why it is renowned as the symbol of true and lasting friendship, as well as offering strength in both head and heart.
SAGITTARIUS – MONTANA
SYMBOLIC OF CURIOSITY, ENERGY AND SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE.
Those born in December, or under the star sign of the archer, have smoky blue Montana as their birthstone color. Known for their energy and generosity, their curiosity and their need for freedom, Sagittarians are born adventurers. Montana is reminiscent of the calm, fathomless ocean and endless clear sky that show Sagittarian travelers the way and guide them to the shore, symbolizing reassurance and security in their journey through life.
Images and copy provided by Swarovski®.
