Birthstone Jewelry Facts from January to March

In ancient times, the pomegranate-red garnet was known as the friendship stone and was given to loved ones as a token of friendly affection. It was also used as a talisman to improve the mood, enhance health and protect against evil spirits. The garnet today is known as the birthstone for January and the 2^nd anniversary gem.

Affordable Birthstone Jewelry

Garnet jewelry is mostly recognized in its red color, but most people don’t realize that it also exists in other colors such as pink, orange, yellow, brown and green! As birthstone jewelry, garnets are typically not as expensive as other precious gems and thus make unique and affordable birthday gifts.

The garnet rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale which is fairly durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, like most other gemstones care must be taken not to subject the stone to sudden temperature changes or vigorous activity to avoid damage.

The rich purple hue of amethyst is reminiscent of velvet and royalty. The word amethyst comes from the Greek word for sober and indeed wine was once drunk from amethyst goblets to avoid drunkenness. Catholic bishops and cardinals wear amethyst rings to represent trust, piety and chastity.

Today we know the amethyst as the birthstone for February and as the gem of the 17^th wedding anniversary. It is a particular variety of the quartz family which is responsible for the unique purple color. The amethyst rates a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale and is durable enough for everyday wear, but should be kept away from extreme temperatures, especially heat. Too much heat will affect the stone’s intense color.

Amethyst Jewelry as a Birthday Gift

Amethyst jewelry looks great in any metal – silver or gold. The intense purple can be combined with just about any other gemstone and look good, however it is most striking when displayed on its own. As a birthstone piece, simplicity is best. Small amethysts in a ring, earrings, pendant or bracelet are appropriate to give as a birthday gift to a family member or a friend. A nice presentation would be to give the jewelry piece in a purple velvet drawstring bag.

The lovely ice blue aquamarine was once given by mermaids to sailors to protect them while at sea. Today, aquamarine jewelry is still worn by some for its protective qualities while on a cruise or on a flight over the ocean.

Aquamarine Jewelry Suggestions

Aquamarine has gained recent popularity as the birthstone for March and as the gem for the 19^th wedding anniversary. Because of the light color and clarity of aquamarine, it looks best by itself or perhaps with smaller diamonds against silver metal such as white gold or sterling silver. Aquamarine earrings or a necklace greatly enhance the appearance of a blue-eyed person in particular, but will always look pleasing regardless of eye color.

Rating a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, aquamarine is fairly durable and appropriate for wear daily. However, care should be taken to store it separately from harder gems such as diamonds and sapphires to avoid scratching.