We often mark special occasions like an engagement, wedding, anniversary and birthday with a piece of gemstone jewelry. It not only makes a worthy gift but it also stays with the recipient forever. Here are some interesting symbolisms associated with gemstones that will make your next jewelry purchase even more meaningful. Read on…
Garnet
It is believed that ancient explorers used this deep red gem to protect them from unforeseen disasters. Noah too used a garnet in his ark to illuminate his way through the darkness and floods. Also, garnets are known for their physical benefits that include relieving fatigue and depression as well as stimulating the bloodstream. Garnet is regarded to be the birthstone for January-borns and the gemstone for the 2nd wedding anniversary.
Amethyst
This mystical beauty is also known to possess mystical powers such as the ability to negate the effects of alcohol consumption. It is believed to promote calmness of the mind and spiritual awareness. From ancient royal Egyptians to British monarchs, everyone has cherished the aura of this prized gemstone. Also, the Christian church regarded it as the ‘stone of bishops’. Amethyst is the birthstone for those born in February and the gem for 6th and 17th anniversaries.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine was regarded as the treasure of the mermaids and ancient sailors carried it as a talisman to protect them on voyages. Besides this, it was considered as a gemstone of eternal youth and happiness by the Egyptians and Sumerians. Aquamarines are worn for a happy marriage and also to rekindle love between estranged couples. March-borns have this sparkling sea-blue gem as their birthstone and it is also the 18th and 19th anniversary gemstone.
Diamond
The hardest gemstone in the world, diamond is replete with symbolisms. No wonder it is the preferred gem for all happy occasions, especially engagements and weddings. Also, did you know that Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds? This April birthstone is also the 60th and 75th anniversary gemstone.
Emerald
Associated with the Greek goddess Venus, emerald represents love and beauty. Also, emeralds are symbols of rebirth, good fortune and youth. It is believed that the gem’s soothing green hue helps in relieving eye strain and stress. Due to the lush green landscapes, Ireland is also referred to as the Emerald Isle. Emerald is the birthstone of the month of May.
Pearl
Japanese believed that pearls were formed from the tears of mermaids, angels and nymphs. While white pearls are symbols of beauty, innocence and new beginnings, the golden and black pearls represent wealth and prosperity. Since pearls also allude to purity, they are often sewed into wedding gowns and adorned as jewelry by traditional brides. Pearls are also regarded as June’s birthstone.
Ruby
Regarded as the ‘king of gems’, ruby also symbolizes the sun. It is considered as the gemstone of passion and love and also one of the most popular choices for engagement rings. This July birthstone also marks the 40th wedding anniversary.
Peridot
Peridot is known as the ‘gem of the sun’ and also considered as ‘tears of the volcanic goddess Pele’. Ancient Romans and Egyptians wore these olive green gemstones as a talisman against evil spirits and nightmares. Peridot is also mentioned in the Bible as ‘pitdah’. It is the birthstone for people born in the month of August.
Sapphire
From time to time, sapphire has been coveted by royals and the affluent for its magnificent beauty and enchanting blue hue. Princess Diana’s and Princess Kate’s blue sapphire engagement ring continues to inspire would-be brides with its exceptional color and elegant design. This rich blue gem not only represents hope and faith but is also believed to attract heavenly blessings. The 5th and 45th anniversaries are commemorated with a sapphire which is also the birthstone for September natives.
Opal
The October birthstone opal was perhaps born from a rainbow that was brought to earth by the creator of Dreamtime. Like the colors in a rainbow, the splendid color-play on an opal sets it apart from the rest of the gemstones. Loved by artists and lovers alike, opal is commonly associated with creativity, purity and fidelity. The royals such as Queen Victoria of England and Napolean Bonaparte too were fascinated by the sheer beauty of opals.
Citrine
Also known as the ‘success stone’ and ‘the merchant’s stone’, citrine is believed to bring abundance and success and promote growth and positive energy. It is said that citrines hold the power of the sun and never need to be ‘recharged’ or ‘cleared’. A birthstone for November-borns, this gemstone’s fiery hues is simply irresistible.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare gemstone, coveted for its stunning bluish-violet hues. It is often considered as a token of new beginnings. Among the Maasai tribes of Tanzania, tanzanites are given to wives upon the birth of a child and to bless the newborn with good fortune and prosperity. This exotic gem is a December birthstone.
The unique symbolisms of these gemstones make them even more meaningful gifts. At Angara, they are available in various qualities, carat weight options and a variety of appealing designs. Pick your favorite right away!
