Philippe Harold, a distinguished jeweller in the heart of Antwerp’s Diamond District, has been crafting exceptional jewellery since 1937. This blog delves into the fascinating world of birthstones and zodiac stones, exploring their origins and meanings, and how they have evolved into the cherished gems we know today.
What are Birthstones & Zodiac Stones?
While some may view birthstones and zodiac stones as mere marketing tools, they hold a rich tradition and personal significance. These gemstones make thoughtful gifts, adding a personal touch that shows your knowledge and care for the recipient. Whether for a mother, daughter, niece, or even for men's cufflinks, gemstone gifts linked to birth months or zodiac signs are truly special.
The Origins of Birthstones
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with many scholars tracing their origins to the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Bible. This ceremonial garment was adorned with twelve unique gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Over centuries, these stones evolved into the modern birthstones we recognize today.
Birthstones for Each Month
The Traditional Birthstone list encompasses older birthstones and is occasionally integrated with the modern birthstone list. These stones are indicative of societal birthstone traditions, originating from the 15th century. It is important to acknowledge that many jewellers possess varying lists of traditional birthstones. The Mystical Birthstone list has Tibetan origins dating back over a millennium. The Ayurvedic Birthstone list is derived from Ayurvedic Indian Medicine, a form of medicine practiced for over a thousand years.
The diversity in these lists implies that if the gemstone specified in the 'Modern' list does not appeal to an individual, alternative options are available from other variations. This flexibility allows for personalization in the selection of gemstones. For those who prefer not to be confined to a limited selection of gemstones, the practice of acquiring all twelve gemstones and rotating them monthly can be an appealing approach.
The significance of birthstones is deeply rooted in myth, legend, and history. Gemstones have been associated with various traditions for thousands of years, with numerous health-related and other properties ascribed to them. Each birthstone possesses its own unique history, meanings, holistic properties, and myths.
- January: Garnet – Faith, Eternity, Truth
- February: Amethyst – Honesty, Wisdom, Calmness
- March: Aquamarine – Happiness, Understanding
- April: Diamond – Eternity, Courage, Health
- May: Emerald – Fidelity, Goodness, Love
- June: Pearl – Peace, Nobility, Beauty
- July: Ruby – Love, Enthusiasm, Strength
- August: Peridot – Success, Peace, Love
- September: Sapphire – Serenity, Truth
- October: Opal – Purity, Hope, Health
- November: Topaz – Wisdom, Courage, Sincerity
- December: Turquoise – Love, Happiness, Luck
Zodiac Stones
Zodiac stones, or Astral Stones, align with the twelve signs of the zodiac and have been used since ancient times. Each zodiac sign has associated gemstones believed to bring healing, clarity, and other benefits. Here's a look at the zodiac stones and the personalities they complement:
- Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18): Garnet
- Personality: Friendly and loyal, got that unique vibe, always keepin' it real. But sometimes, they flip the script and act a bit detached, unpredictable, like a wild card in the deck.
- Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20): Amethyst
- Personality: Dreamers with a big heart, kind and wise, they feel the vibes. But watch out, they can get lost in their fantasies, stay secretive, and sometimes follow the wrong beat.
- Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19): Bloodstone
- Personality: Bold and fearless, always first to the scene, energy on high. But they can be quick-tempered, impulsive, and sometimes too eager to rush the track.
- Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20): Sapphire
- Personality: Steady and loving, they hold it down with patience and warmth. But don’t get it twisted, they can be possessive, stubborn, and sometimes a bit too into their own groove.
- Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20): Agate
- Personality: Versatile and witty, they spit rhymes with ease, always switchin' the flow. But they can be nervous, inconsistent, and sometimes a bit too curious for their own good.
- Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22): Emerald
- Personality: Deep and caring, they vibe with intuition and love, protective to the core. But their mood swings can hit like a beat drop, overemotional and sometimes hard to let go.
- Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22): Onyx
- Personality: Big-hearted and creative, they shine like the sun, always the hype. But they can be a bit too bossy, a bit too loud, sometimes stepping on toes with their pride.
- Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22): Carnelian
- Personality: Detail-oriented and smart, they got the grind, always on point. But they can be critical, worry too much, and sometimes get stuck in their own meticulous rhythm.
- Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22): Peridot
- Personality: Smooth and charming, they keep the peace, always diplomatic. But sometimes, they can be indecisive, too easily swayed, and a bit too into the lavish life.
- Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21): Beryl (Aquamarine, Emerald, Morganite)
- Personality: Intense and powerful, they got that magnetic pull, always passionate. But they can be secretive, obsessive, and sometimes play it too close to the chest.
- Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21): Citrine
- Personality: Free-spirited and honest, they keep it real with good vibes and laughter. But they can be careless, too blunt, and sometimes miss the details in their quest for freedom.
- Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19): Ruby
- Personality: Ambitious and disciplined, they climb to the top, always practical. But they can be pessimistic, too serious, and sometimes a bit too tight with their stacks.
Choosing Your Gemstone
There are no strict rules for choosing your gemstone. Whether you prefer your birthstone, zodiac stone, or another gem from different cultural lists, the most important factor is that the stone resonates with you and brings joy.
At Philippe Harold, we offer personalized jewellery that reflects our legacy of craftsmanship. Whether you seek diamond engagement rings, custom engagement rings, wedding bands, or other exquisite pieces, our expert team of gemologists, designers, and crafters are here to create a piece that is uniquely yours. Experience the allure of Antwerp diamond jewellery and let your story sparkle with Philippe Harold.
Explore the beauty and tradition of birthstones and zodiac stones with Philippe Harold. Let us help you find the perfect piece that will become a cherished part of your journey.
