By Margaret Hedderman
Most of us know our birthstones - the traditional gemstones assigned to our month of birth. Surely at some point we've all bought or been given amethysts, sapphires, or (hopefully!) diamonds. But who knew there is a deep, historical and mystical tradition behind our birthstones? Many believe in the healing powers of wearing birthstones during their assigned month. What does your birthstone mean?
January - Garnet
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Cluster Pearl Garnet Earrings by Lorraine Yapps Cohen.[/caption]
A stone for the heart! Garnets benefit the heart, lungs and blood. With a deep, rich red color, garnets are also the stone of love, passion, and sensuality.
February - Amethyst
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14k Amethyst Ladybug Necklace by Cherie Dori[/caption]
A stone for meditation, peace, inner-strength and courage, the alluring purple of amethyst is thought to alleviate insomnia, arthritis, and circulatory issues.
March - Aquamarine
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Aqua Deco Ring by Elizabeth Showers[/caption]
A calming and soothing stone, aquamarine will alleviate stress and nerves, and release fear. It also aids in the health of liver, throat, stomach, eyes, ears and the jaw.
April - Diamonds
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Aurea Ring by Toby Pomeroy[/caption]
Diamonds seem to do it all. A clean, pure and healing stone, diamonds aid enlightenment and fearlessness. Diamonds help manifest abundance and create bonding partnerships.
May - Emerald
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24kt Gold Envy Necklace by GURHAN[/caption]
The stone of the Roman Goddess Venus, the beautiful, deep green of the emerald is associated with health of the skin, liver, and kidneys. It is said that if the heart is true, the emerald will remain its beautiful green color, but if the heart strays, the stone will become dull and lifeless.
June - Pearl
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Multicolored Pearl Necklace by Pam Springall[/caption]
Symbolizing faith, purity and innocence, pearls will help you focus and inhibit boisterous activity. It is said that pearls enhance fertility and ease childbirth.
July - Ruby
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24kt gold Aurora Earrings by GURHAN.[/caption]
This brilliant red stone has always been associated with the sun. Love, energy, passion and power, rubies are said to bring good dreams, courage, and enjoyment of life. It is also believed that rubies will detoxify the body and blood.
August - Peridot
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Five Stone Sugilite and Peridot Bracelet by Kaizen[/caption]
Another detoxifying stone, peridot is believed to relieve psychological conditions: depression and nervousness, among others. It's vibrant and happy green color is said to boost self-esteem.
September - Blue Sapphire
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24kt Gold Blue Sapphire Spring Ring by GURHAN[/caption]
A symbol of the heavens, blue sapphires are a "wisdom" stone. It restores balance to the body and mind, as well as bringing lightness and joy to your life!
October - Opal
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Reversible Ring - Opal to Diamonds by Gloria Sawin[/caption]
Opal brings self-worth, self-esteem and confidence. It is said to be a seductive stone, yet brings loyalty as well. Opal will also strengthen the immune system and bring good health!
November - Topaz
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18kt Gold Topaz Deco Earrings by Elizabeth Showers[/caption]
Topaz comes in many colors. It recharges and re-motivates its bearer, helping to solve problems and express ideas. Topaz is a stone of good love and good fortune.
December - Lapis
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Small Running Horse Pendant by Ben Nighthorse[/caption]
So often found in Native American jewelry, lapis is a stone of protection. It stimulates self-awareness and expression as well as alleviating insomnia and vertigo.