The belief in special stones for one's month of birth can be traced back to the writings of
Josephus in the first century, when he connected the twelve stones of the high-priest’s
breastplate with the twelve months of the year. St. John's writings in the Book of
Revelation also associated gems from the foundation of New Jerusalem with the twelve
Apostles:
“The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone.
The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald,
the fifth sardonyx (banded chalcedony), the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite (peridot),
the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth (orange zircon),
and the twelfth amethyst.”
(Remember that calendar years once began in March...)
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Since the times of those writings, birth stones have undergone many regional, religious and
industry-driven changes. Thus, through the ages, many different stones have come to symbolize
or represent a given month, while some gems are shared widely between months. I believe it is
nice to honor various cultures and times of history - especially when it allows us more choice
in the "birthstone" we wish to wear. So, when you search for "your" birthstone, don't be
surprised to find non-standard stones listed in "your" month!
You will find more details about this in the "lore" section for specific months (only displayed
on the special sale page for that month). If you have any questions about birthstones - or any
question about gems at all - please drop me a line. I'm happy to visit with you about it.
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