Jan – Garnet Symbolizing religion and bravery, garnets are thought to increase emotion and nurture the imagination. Ancient Greeks and Romans thought the deep red gem resembled a pomegranate seed because of its color and round shape. They were very fond of the gems and used them in their jewelry and other embellishments. In ancient Egypt, Cleopatra wore the red gem probably thinking it was a ruby. Back then, they didn’t know that garnet came in more colors than just red.
There are about 14 different varieties and most are mined in Africa. Tanzania, Namibia and parts of South Africa are common mining locations. Europe, Asia, Australia and the United States also have gem deposits. Carl Faberge used the emerald green stones found in the Urals of western Russia in many of his pieces.Feb – Amethyst a depiction of peace since ancient times, amethyst was once used to brighten the English crown jewels. Thought to market peace, the stones are respected for their relaxing traits.
Today, the transparent blue stone is a depiction of bravery and everlasting youth. Apr – Diamond in the Italian Renaissance, diamonds came to represent divine love from the interpretation dio ( God ) and amante ( love ). Today, diamonds remain the final symbol of everlasting devotion. PP May – Emerald Due to its rich green hue, the ancients compared emeralds with spring and cherished them as symbols of rebirth. The colourful stones are thought to quicken the intelligence as well as the heart. The planet’s oldest known gem, pearls are said to promote wealth and long life. July – Ruby Believed to market balance in love and all religious endeavors, the ruby is not just the planet’s rarest gemstone, but also the one many consider the most keen.
Aug – Peridot / Sardonyx traditional Romans called peridot the’evening emerald’, since its clear green color does not darken at night. Once thought to drive away malicious spirits, the stone is still considered a depiction of good luck. Sep – Sapphire The ancients thought the earth rested on a giant sapphire, and its reflection coloured the sky.
Once worn by kings to guard against harm, today sapphires are thought to promote inner peace. October – Opal / Tourmaline Shakespeare onced used opals as his muse, their luminous surfaces mirroring the joys of the skies, rainbows, fireworks and lightening right now. Today, the stone is symbolic of both intuition and joy.
Nov – Citrine / Yellow Topaz Derived from the French word citron, meaning lemon, citrine is AKA the jewel of the sun. The golden stone has been aptly linked with light-heartedness, contentment and joy. December – Blue Topaz / Turquoise The traditional greeks thought topaz had the power to increase strength and make its wearer invisible. Still considered a forceful stone, today this stunning gem is also symbolic of rejuvenation and joy.
Here is a link to some beautiful garnet rings and other fine gems.