There is no denying that birthstones are unique. They are said to bestow prosperity, health, and money to the person who wears them. For decades, we have had 12 birthstones, one for each of the 12 zodiac signs, which are accepted worldwide. These gems, according to expert gemologists in India, have a special place in the fashion world as well.
But where did these birthstones come from? We seldom know anything about their origins and evolution. So let us discover more about how these birthstones came to be and their religious significance. We will also conclude the blog with a list of 12 dazzling birthstones- have a look!
Are Birthstones Actually Gemstones or Minerals?
The gemologists say that to be a mineral, a gem must meet five requirements. It must occur naturally and not man-made, have an internal structure, should have special chemical composition, inorganic and solid.
So, according to these criteria, the majority of the so-called birthstones are technically minerals. However, Opal can be either organic or inorganic, therefore, it cannot be considered as a mineral. Gems are generally hard to find and possess a high economic value depending upon their rarity.
Are the Birthstones Biblical?
According to scholars, the foundation of birthstones dates back to the Breastplate of Aaron. It is mentioned in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. It is said that the Breastplate threw 12 rare gemstones that ideally represented the 12 major tribes of Isreal.
To highlight the special powers of each tribe, all the gemstones were set in three rows. This proves that the birthstones have spiritual origins. But modern traditions believe that the gemstones were originally assigned as per the birth month.
Scholars Flavius Josephus and St. Jerome first realised the special connection between the 12 gemstones and 12 zodiac signs. However, the categorization of gemstones according to the birth month was done in the 18th century.
The idea was proposed that every gemstone has some special powers that activate with a corresponding astrological sign. And wearing these gemstones can have talismanic or therapeutic benefits. According to these scholars, the ritual of month-specific gemstones began in Poland.
People believe that birthstones possess special healing powers, health benefits, and cosmic benedictions. This tradition came to the west and people started believing that their birthstone strengthens and protects them from the evil eye.
What Is The Significance of Gemstones in Indian Cosmology?
In India, a gemstone is much more than just a lovely thing. Ratnapariksa, a fifth-century book, depicts how jewels are filled with symbolic meaning pertaining to deities, planets, and days of the week. Some gemstones (such as ruby, sapphire, coral, hyacinth, and cat’s eye) are said to have malevolent energies, whilst others (such as pearl, emerald, diamond, and topaz) are thought to contain benevolent energies.
How exactly do birthstones work?
Birthstones are more than just gemstones that correspond to each month. Each of them has a therapeutic quality that corresponds to one of the zodiac signs. They also help to cleanse, purify, and ignite the aura. The inherent energy contained in birthstones can assist to alleviate anxiety, increase confidence, and strengthen relationships.
What Are The 12 Birthstones As Per Zodiac Signs?
- Garnet – Worn by the people born in January
- Amethyst – Represents the month of February
- Bloodstone and Aquamarine – These gemstones represent the month of March
- Diamond – Represents the month of April
- Emerald – Represents the month of May
- Moonstone and Pearl – Represents the month of June
- Ruby – Represents the month of July
- Peridot – Represents the month of August
- Sapphire – Represents the month of September
- Opal – Represents the month of October
- Topaz and Citrine – Represents the month of November
- Turquoise and Tanzanite – Represents the month of December
Whether you honour your zodiac sign or birth month, there is a dazzling birthstone to represent you. So what are you waiting for? Surprise your loved one this year with his or her gorgeous birthstone. And don’t forget to purchase it from KGK Group, one of the best jewellers in India. Also, make sure you consult an experienced astrologer to understand the pros and cons of wearing your birthstone.