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JANUARY - GARNET COLOUR DEEP RED Garnet comes from the Latin word "granatus" meaning "grain" or "seed". This name was given to the garnet because of its close resemblance to the pomegranate seed. The garnet is said to be the protective gem of travellers, a gift of garnet is thought to be symbolic of the safe and speedy journey home of a loved one. |
FEBRUARY - AMETHYST COLOUR PURPLE The ancient Greeks believed that this gemstone gave them the power of protection against intoxication. The word amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos" meaning sober. The gift of Amethyst is symbolic of the power to overcome difficulties. |
MARCH - AQUAMARINE COLOUR PALE BLUE Aquamarine is derived from the Roman word "Aqua", meaning water, and "mare" meaning sea. In ancient times water in which this gemstone had been submerged, was used to heal a variety of illnesses. A gift of Aquamarine symbolises both safety and security, especially within long standing relationships. |
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APRIL - DIAMOND COLOUR WHITE, CLEAR The diamond is harder than any other substance on earth. It has the ability to reflect and refract light giving it a brilliant sparkling effect. Diamonds crystallized carbon formed deep within the earth. A gift of a diamond is symbolic of everlasting love. |
MAY - EMERALD COLOUR DEEP GREEN The Egyptians were known to engrave Emeralds with the symbol of foliage to represent eternal youth, and to bury these jewels with their dead. The ancient Romans associated this gemstone with fertility and rebirth. A gift of Emerald is considered symbolic to love and fidelity. |
JUNE - PEARL COLOUR WHITE Pearls are formed in in oyster, mussel or clam shells from layers of a substance called "nacre" attacking a parasite or fished lodged in the oyster flesh. Pearls are a popular gift for all ages. |
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JULY - RUBY COLOUR RED The ruby was considered to have magical powers, and was worn by royalty as a talisman against evil. The word ruby comes from the Latin "ruber", meaning red. It is said that if worn on the left hand, the ruby will bring good fortune to its wearer. |
AUGUST - PERIDOT YELLOW GREEN The Peridot is formed as a result of volcanic activity and throughout history has been used as a means to connect with nature. The name Peridot comes from the Arabic word "faridat", meaning gem. The gift of a Peridot is symbolic of vitality. |
SEPTEMBER - BLUE SAPPHIRE COLOUR DEEP BLUE Ancient civilizations believed that the world was set upon an enormous sapphire, which painted the sky blue with its reflection. The blue sapphire was named after the Greek word "sapphirus", meaning blue. A gift of Sapphire represents sincerity and faithfulness. |
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OCTOBER - OPAL COLOUR MULTI-COLOURED The opal derives its name from the Latin word "opalus" meaning precious jewel. The opal dates back to prehistoric times and contains up to 30% water, so it must be protected from heat or harsh chemicals. A gift of Opal is symbolic of faithfulness and confidence. |
NOVEMBER - CITRINE YELLOW GOLD The name citrine comes from an old French word, "citrin", meaning lemon. It is believed that some citrine may have begun as amethyst but the heat from nearby molten rock changed it to yellow. A gift of Citrine is symbolic for hope and strength. |
DECEMBER - BLUE TOPAZ BLUE Decembers birthstone is derived from the Sanskrit word "tapas", meaning fire. The Blue Topaz was thought to have magical properties in its ablility to make its wearer invisible in a threatening situation. A gift of Blue Topaz is symbolic of love and fidelity. |
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