Birthstone Bracelets Are Great 21st Gifts
Wearing birthstones associated with the month of one’s birth has been a tradition for at least 4 centuries. They were once thought to have magical powers and to bring the wearer good luck. Today, they make wonderful gifts for 18th or 21st birthdays.
In case you didn’t know, for at least 500 years, each month has had a particular precious stone associated with it. Though which stone goes with which month has varied somewhat over the centuries, according to modern tradition they are: garnet for January; amethyst for February; aquamarine for March; crystal quartz for April; Emerald or chrysoprase for May; pearl or moonstone for June; Ruby for July; peridot for August; sapphire for September; pink opal or tourmaline for October; citrine for November; turquoise or blue topaz for December. When it comes to so significant a date as an 18th or 21st birthday, something so linked to one’s origins is a great way to mark and remember the occasion.
The tradition of wearing birthstones is thought to date back to at least Biblical times. The Book of Exodus the breastplate worn by the prophet Aaron is described thus,
“It was square… and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there was a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings. There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes”
From there, different precious stones became associated with different signs of the zodiac and, over time, this became a belief that certain precious stones were linked to certain months of the year. We have the Poles to thank for the specific tradition of wearing stones associated with months of the year. At that time it was believed that certain stones held magical powers and each birthstone’s power would become greater during their particular month.
Nobody wants to give mass-produced jewellery as 21st gifts. One wants to give something precious and personal. Buying birthstone jewellery as 18th or 21st gifts allows one to create something that is truly personalised. All of the fittings are made in solid Sterling silver or 9 carat gold. To add that extra personal touch, one can choose to have the wearer’s name or initials incorporated into the chain or added as one of a wide selection of charms. Birthstones are available fitted as ever bracelets, every popular rings, pendants or larger (but still delicate) necklaces.
As well as having a birthstone that is indelibly linked to the wearer, you can also choose between a real birthstone and a Swarovski crystal in birthstone colour, dependant on budget. You should remember to ensure you are dealing with a reputable supplier. Some imitation birthstones can look correct, but are only made of glass and plastic.
Make sure to ask about the jeweller’s aftercare package when buying. The best should offer a cleaning service so the lucky bearer can keep their piece looking bright without damaging it.
It doesn’t matter if you believe in their luck-giving powers or not; birthstone jewellery makes a great gift for an 18th or 21st birthday. The association of a particular stone with a particular month has a particular significance.
Birthstone Gifts offer an online service for designing bespoke birthstone jewellery. Whether it’s an 18th or 21st gift, they can guide you through the process of making the perfect necklace.
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