Birthstones-A tradition dating back many centuries.

In many cultures around the world, certain gems are assigned to each person according to their date of birth. It is believed that these birthstones correspond with the person’s nature and/or assist in protection.

This practice has been apparent in Indian Aruveydic philosophy for at least 1500 years. In Tibet the tradition dates back 1000 years.

In the Western world, birthstones are linked to signs of the zodiac and the Gregorian calendar.

A new list of birthstones was compiled in 1812 by the association “Jewelers of America” in an attempt to standardize the system.

Gregorian poem

In 1870, Tiffany & Co published a pamphlet based on a Gregorian poem by an unknown author which is featured below.

You can check prices and details or find more examples by clicking on the ring photos below.

January

By her who in January was born
No gem save Garnets shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

The February born shall find
Sincerity and peace of mind,
Freedom from passion and from care,
If they, the Amethyst will wear.

By her who in March was born
No gem save Bloodstone shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

She who from April dates her years,
Diamonds shall wear,
lest bitter tears
For vain repentance flow.

Who first beholds the light of day
In spring’s sweet, flower month of May
And wears an Emerald all her life
Shall be a loved and a loving wife.

By her who in June was born
No gem save Pearls shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

The gleaming Ruby should adorn,
All those who in July are born,
For thus they’ll be exempt and free,
From lover’s doubts and anxiety.

Wear a Peridot or for thee,
No conjugal fidelity,
The August born without this stone,
`Tis said, must live unloved; alone.

A maiden born when autumn leaves
Are rustling in September‘s breeze,
A Sapphire on her brow should bind;
To bring her joy and peace of mind.

October‘s child is born for woe,
And life’s vicissitudes must know,
But lay an Opal on her breast,
And hope will lull those woes to rest.

Who first comes to this world below
In dreary November‘s fog and snow,
Should prize the Topaz amber hue,
Emblem of friends and lovers true.

If cold December gave you birth
The month of snow and ice and mirth
Place on your hand a Turquoise blue;
Success will bless whate’er you do.

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Alternative birthstones

Most experts agree that the 12 gemstones used were the same as those set in the “Priestly Breastplate” according to biblical description. The stones represented the 12 tribes of Israel and also correspond with the 12 signs of the zodiac or months of the year. However, due to some debate by different cultures regarding which stones were actually used, there can be some variation.

For the purpose of this site, we will concern ourselves only with the examples mentioned in the Gregorian poem above based on traditions going back as far as the 15th century.

You can find many examples to purchase online via this website. A birthstone ring can be worn by anyone and makes a long lasting and thoughtful gift for friends and family.

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