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Gemini Birthstones

Madame Constella — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 10:05:39 +0000

Gemini’s birthstones are unique and powerful. In this article, find out everything you need to know about the gemstones of Gemini: what they are, what do they mean, as well as their symbolism and purported benefits.

Above: Tiger’s eye. Photo Credit: lost places @ Flickr.

Gemini’s Birthstones

The Twins sign, Gemini, is ruled by Mercury. In astrology, Mercury is the planet that governs communication. Perhaps because of this affinity to Mercury, Geminis are intelligent people with enhanced oratorical talents.

They’re also naturally talented in diplomacy and rich in ingenuity. Geminians are charming individuals who get bored easily and prefer change. Although sociable and intelligent, some of the natives can sometimes be seen as little superficial.

If you are born under the sign of Gemini, learning more about the your very own birthstones can be both entertaining and beneficial to you spiritually.

5 Birthstones of Gemini

Below are some gemstones that best represent Gemini as the zodiac sign’s birthstones.

1. Tiger’s Eye – Main Gemini Birthstone

Above: Tiger’s eye – cube cut. Unfortunately this cut doesn’t bring out the chatoyancy of the stone. Photo Credit: Alvin Trusty @ Flickr

To start the list, we have the tiger’s eye. Named for its similarity to the striped apex predator’s eyes, the famous gemstone is a birthstone for both May and June Gemini.

Tiger’s eye (or tiger eye) is a chatoyant gemstone that belongs to the chalcedony family. While it is also found in other colors, its most signature color combination is yellow-brown.

Properly shaped and polished, the gemstone’s chatoyancy gives off a unique band-like reflection pattern when rotated under the light.

The Eye of Tiger is a stone of protection and some astrologers believe that it holds the key to Gemini’s happiness.

It’s been said that ancient Roman soldiers wore tiger’s eyes into battles, for it was believed that the gemstone would offer them protection from physical harm.

The gemstone’s eye-like appearance and protective nature make it an effective charm against the evil eye. This is crucial to Gemini who is known for being the social butterfly of the zodiac and the center of attention at social events.

According to spiritual practitioners, tiger’s eye can also fend off toxic thoughts and negative energies. Without negative thoughts that lead to self-doubt, Gemini can direct her full attention toward her goals.

With the help of this gemstone, Gemini can make use of her intelligence and unleash her creativity without getting held back.

The tiger’s eyes are also in Gemini’s lucky color–yellow.

2. Emerald – May Gemini Birthstone

Photo: Cut Colombian emeralds. Credit: Mauro Cateb @ Flickr

As one of the most popular gemstones, emerald needs little introduction. To many people, emerald is the green gemstone.

Known as The Jewel of Kings, emerald had been favored by royalties since antiquity. Among emerald’s famous fans was Cleopatra. Legend says that the Egyptian queen loved emerald jewelry and had her palace decorated with emerald.

As described in the May birthstones article, emerald is a symbol of wisdom, intelligence, growth, fertility, immortality, and longevity. The deep green color of emerald represents earth, stability, nature, revitalization, and regeneration.

A symbol of intelligence, emerald is a natural fit for Gemini who is known for their intelligence and quick-wittedness.

The wisdom gemstone serves to remind Gemini the difference between wisdom and cleverness, and that sometimes the best form of communication is non-verbal.

And finally, the earthy emerald provides Gemini a safe harbor… a mental landing pad for when the air sign needs to recharge and reorient themselves.

In Vedic astrology, emerald has an affinity for Mercury, which is the ruling planet of Gemini. Some may see this as mere coincidence. But what is life if not a series of coincidences?

3. Pearl – June Gemini Birthstone

Above: pearls of different colors. Credit: Mauro Cateb

Just like Gemini, the pearl is a unique existence on the spectrum of gemstones. Because technically, pearl is not a gemstone at all! Organic in nature, pearl is a gem but not a stone.

Pearl is a birthstone of June, so it represents June Gemini, the Gemini-Cancer cusp, and also June Cancer. But the month of June is not the only reason why pearl is a suitable birthstone for Gemini.

Like Gemini, the pearl is sophisticated and elegant. Underneath levels of complexity, however, is the Gemini’s pure heart that the Gemini would only reveal to those who are sincere and are willing to dwell. This purity and innocence is best represented by the pearl for it is the champion for these qualities.

In addition to purity and elegance, pearl is also a symbol of the moon, loyalty, serenity, humility, femininity, and abundance.

Pearls are mostly used in jewelry such as earrings and necklaces. So if you’re looking for a jewelry piece for yourself or a June Gemini, you should definitely check out this gem.

4. Moss Agate – Gemini Gemstone with Deepest Meaning

Above: Moss Agate Earrings. Photo Credit: Allison Giguere @ Flickr

Another Gemini birthstone is the moss agate. Agate is a type of chalcedony, a diverse group of minerals. Among the different types of agate is the moss agate.

Moss agate is agate that has mineral inclusions in it that give it specks of green making it look moss-like. The main body of the stone can range from transparent, milky white, to dark green. The most signature look is probably the green moss-like pattern on a milky white body.

At a glance, it may seem like moss agate and Gemini has nothing in common. The Gemini color is yellow, moss agate is green. Gemini is an air sign, but moss agate pattern is moss-like or, in some cases, wave-like. To understand moss agate’s connection to Gemini, let’s take a deeper look.

Moss can grow between a rock and hard place. It can expand its territory in ways that defy gravity. This is a sign of uncompromising growth, flexibility, and strong survival instinct. Geminis are born survivors because of their intelligence and pragmatism. This is not unlike moss and the Stone of Moss itself.

Similar to the tiger’s eye, moss agate too can ward off negative energies. Where the Eye of Tiger blocks and perhaps reflects negative energies, the Stone of Moss purifies them.

Ancient Egyptians believed that moss agate increases inspiration and creativity. Perhaps that belief was true. Psychologically, that can help Gemini become more confident and mute the voice of self-doubt.

For Geminis who pursue professions in communication and human resources, this stone makes it easier for them to present their thoughts and ideas.

5. Calcite – Enhancer Crystal for Gemini

Above: Orange Calcite. Photo Credit: Anders Sandberg @ Flickr.

To end the list, let’s take a look at an often overlooked semiprecious stone: calcite.

Calcite isn’t a Gemini birthstone per se, but its spiritual benefits for Gemini and affordability make it an excellent crystal to use as décor and gift to your Gemini friends.

Calcite’s affordable price is partly because of its abundance on Earth. While gem-quality calcite is rare and captivating to look at, calcite is often appreciated for its usefulness in spirituality, agriculture, and construction.

In terms of spirituality, calcite is believed to be an active crystal. It is purported to enhance your self-confidence, courage, and willpower. While Gemini excels at social communication, these are some areas where Gemini could use some help.

As you’re aware, Gemini is all about speed and changes. In communicating and interacting with other people, Gemini’s effectiveness and swiftness can sometimes be seen as superficial and apathetic.

Calcite could help to soften Gemini’s sharp social edges by improving the Twins’ empathy skills. Some spiritual experts believe that this empathy skill can even be applied to your own self.

That means a Gemini individual would be able to connect with their true nature and higher self. The crystal is also said to bring balance to the rational thoughts and emotions. It also has the ability to instantly calm the nervous mind and absorb toxic emotions.

Calcite is found a variety of colors. Each color is believed to bring different benefits and effects. If you’re interested in this topic, I encourage you to read more on this topic.

What Is Your Favorite Gemini Stone?

In this article, we’ve discussed five distinct Gemini gemstones.

Tiger’s Eye is the main Gemini birthstone. In addition to Tiger’s Eye, May Gemini is also blessed with the green gemstone emerald; June Gemini with pearl. Moss agate is another birthstone of Gemini and calcite which is our recommended spiritual crystal for the Twins.

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

Birthstones by Month

Gemini Zodiac Sign

Gemini Jobs

The post Gemini Birthstones appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Taurus Birthstones

Madame Constella — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 05:01:26 +0000

These gemstones are said to represent Taurus. Find out what they are and what are their meanings. Decide for yourself if you think they’re worthy as Taurus’s birthstones.

Photo: Emerald ring. Credit: hpochop @ Pixabay

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) is ruled by Venus, the planet and goddess that embodies love, elegance, and beauty. The sign of the bull is blessed by Venus and this explains Taurus’s appreciation for all things beautiful, sensuality, and good taste. Astrologically speaking, Taurus natives are characterized by tenacity, stability, pragmatism, beauty, artistic sense, calm, patience, fidelity. They are also known to have a practical spirit but can sometimes become greedy their pursuit of wealth.

Birthstones refer to gemstones that represent one’s birthday. There’re birthstones for a particular day of the week, month, and, of course, zodiac sign. Similar to Astrology, there isn’t a central authority that dictates what gemstone is a Taurus birthstone and what isn’t. With that said, there are indeed some gemstones that are more popular as Taurus gems than others. And there are also stones that are believed to be more spiritually aligned to Taurus. The gemstones that have earned the title of Taurus birthstones are diamond, emerald, rose quartz, aventurine, and amethyst. Let’s now take a closer at each of these marvelous gems.

1. Emerald

Photo: Cut Colombian emeralds. Credit: Mauro Cateb @ Flickr

Emerald is the most popular gemstone for Taurus men and women. Known for its deep green color and namesake rectangular cut, emerald is one of the most famous gemstones alongside diamond, sapphire, and ruby.

In terms of symbolism, emerald is a stone of prosperity, love, and wisdom. It also symbolizes fertility, peace, hope, healing, nurturing, and growth. Many of these aspects are deeply valued by Taurus. For being an earth sign, Taureans are drawn to nature and greenery. As such, in many ways, emerald represents what Taurus wants and who they are. This makes emerald an excellent gemstone for Taurus.

In Roman Egypt, emerald was favored by Cleopatra. It is said that the Egyptian queen adorned herself in emerald jewelry and used emerald as decoration. The locally-mined emerald was given out as gifts to foreign diplomats as local specialties.

Emerald is a variety of beryl. Other notable members of the beryl gem family include aquamarine and morganite. Emerald is also a birthstone for the month of May. This means that emerald represents both April and May Taurus, but it doubly represents May Taurus.

2. Diamond

The symbol of forever, diamond, is another birthstone for Taurus. Since diamond is also an April birthstone, it is especially appealing to April Taurus.

Diamond is the most famous and most sought-after gemstone. It is known for being one of the hardest naturally-occurring substances on earth. A properly cut and polished diamond draws attention with its captivating sparkle.

The symbolism and meaning of diamond are closely related to its physical properties. See if you can detect a theme here. Diamond symbolizes invincibility, perseverance, strength, commitment, purity, and perfection. As an expensive gemstone, is also a symbol of luxury, wealth, achievement, self-confidence. This is to say that the diamond represents Taurus’ desires and traits. Taurus are hard workers and they work toward building wealth through perseverance. While they do seek luxury, they tend to be humble and do so with a pure intention. They just want to feel safe and secure in their position. All of these are embodied by the diamond. For having so much in common, it’s safe to say that the diamond is an excellent Taurus birth gem.

3. Rose Quartz

Photo: Rose quartz on filigree ring. Credit: starbright, Flickr

Rose quartz is the gemstone of love and relationship for Taurus. As a fixed earth sign, Taurus can be an introverted sign. But just because they are quiet doesn’t mean that they aren’t romantic. On the contrary, Taurus is one of the most romantic signs of the zodiac, in part due to the influence of the Goddess of Love Venus. Coincidentally, Venus is said to be the reason how rose quartz came to be.

Before Venus became Venus to the Romans, she was known as Aphrodite by the people of ancient Greece. It is said that when Aphrodite risked herself to save her love Adonis, they got hurt and their blood mixed and landed on a piece of quartz. Their blood stained the pure quartz, giving it a rosy pink color, forever. For rose quartz came to be from an act of love by the goddess of love herself, rose quartz is forever known as a stone of selfless love.

As a stone of love, it is favored by newlyweds or by those who are engaged to be married. Some believe that wearing rose quartz helps you to gain a more profound understanding of love and friendship. This understanding makes you wiser when it comes to these delicate but important matters. This means that the pink Taurus crystal would not turn Taurus into a hopeless romantic. But instead, it provides the wisdom and clarity that Taurus need in coming out as a winner in terms of love and relationship.

4. Aventurine

Photo: Aventurine, polished. Credit: Content Pixie, Unsplash

Aventurine is a healing birthstone for Taurus. Aventurine can exist in many different colors, but green color is the most common and also the color we recommend as Taurus birth crystal.

Aventurine is said to be a universal healing crystal. It is believed to promote healing and good health in general. And this applies to both mental and physical health. It is believed to sharpen and provide clarity to one’s mind. Purportedly, the green gemstone also helps prevent hair loss, mitigate allergies, soothe allergy reactions, and improve skin conditions.

Just like emerald, aventurine belongs to one of the colors the represent Taurus which is green. Unlike emerald, the green aventurine is opaque and has a dusty green color. In any case, aventurine has a much cheaper price range than emerald. Consequently, aventurine the Taurus stone can be used in areas that emerald can’t, such as home décor or even as paper weight using lesser-grade aventurine.

5. Amethyst

Photo: Amethyst. Credit: Amila Tennakoon, Flickr

Taurus is also lucky to have amethyst as their birthstone. The purple gemstone is a symbol of peace, calmness, relaxation, purity, gentleness, kindness, and clarity. While “luck” isn’t a symbol of the gemstone, I’d venture to say that amethyst is the lucky stone for Taurus. Why? I’ll explain more below.

The Taurus gemstone amethyst is believed to bring inner peace. It’s the perfect gemstone to have around especially when you’re going through some rough patches in life. For it symbolizes peace and relaxation, consider placing it in your living room or bedroom as decor. Gem-grade amethyst is more expensive, but there are other more affordable amethyst grades that are excellent as home decor.

The literal meaning of amethyst is “not intoxicated.” When you’re intoxicated your judgment is clouded. In other words, amethyst offers clarity and perhaps the wisdom you need to see things clearly. This couples with the stone’s calming effect makes it an excellent companion crystal for studying and learning. This brings us back to why amethyst is a lucky stone for Taurus. That’s because of the clarity it brings to the mind. Taurus is perseverant and hardworking, however, one of their biggest weaknesses is stubbornness. Amethyst can help Taurus see past their own stubbornness and this creates luck for the bulls.

Conclusions

We’ve discussed five unique gemstones that represent Taurus. These five gemstones are unique in their own ways. They’re not only aesthetically pleasing as jewelry and decor, but they are also believed to have many beneficial properties. While many of the effects can’t be proven scientifically, one cannot deny the positive psychological effects of wearing your own birthstone. In other words, it makes you feel good. And good things happen when you feel great about yourself.

Birthstones by Month

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

Aries Birthstones | Taurus Birthstones

Taurus

The post Taurus Birthstones appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

May Birthstones

Madame Constella — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 17:48:31 +0000

What are May’s birthstones? What are their meanings and symbolism?

May is the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar. It is springtime in the Northern Hemisphere and fall in the Southern hemisphere. May houses two zodiac signs of distinct personalities and affinity: Taurus and Gemini. The May birth flowers are Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn.

Etymologically, it is commonly believed that May was named in honor of the Greek goddess Maia. According to legends, Maia was the embodiment of growth and progress. She was a nurturer which isn’t unlike May that provides a favorable climate for lives to thrive.

Early May spots the peak of Eta Aquarids, an annual meteor shower that originates from the famous Comet Halley (1P/Halley). The spectacular astronomical phenomenon is visible both from both hemispheres.

Throughout history and across different cultures, the month of May has found itself in association with various gemstones. Commonly referred to as birthstones or natal stones, they’re a subjective list of gemstones that are constantly changing. For the purpose of this article, we’re picking three gemstones to represent May: emerald, agate, and sapphire.

1. Emerald

Above: Emerald and diamond necklace. Credit: Engin_Akyurt@Pixabay

Emerald is both a traditional and modern birthstone for May. It is one of the most famous gemstones and definitely the most famous gem of the beryl gem family it belongs to. Another notable member of the beryl family is aquamarine.

The name ’emerald’ was derived from the Greek word ‘smaragdos‘ which means ‘green gem.’ The first documented emerald was mined in Egypt in 1500 BC and was estimated to be over 2 billion years old.

Emerald gained itself a flattering title “The Jewel of Kings,” because it was favored by kings and other royalties. Among the royal aficionados of the green gemstone was the famous Egyptian queen Cleopatra. When she’s not entangled in Roman-Egyptian politics, Cleopatra was passionate about a few things. Among them were rose and emerald. Emeralds were worn by Cleopatra as adornments. Her palace was decorated with emerald. It was also given out as gifts to foreign dignitaries.

Emerald’s soothing green color has a calming effect. One could reasonably speculate that its luscious green reminds us of Mother Nature. This is a fitting birthstone for May because it is the time when the fields will be shrouded in the color of the emerald.

Emerald is a symbol of wisdom, intelligence, growth, fertility, immortality, and longevity. In Vedic astrology, emerald is connected to Mercury which is the planet of intelligence. It is believed that the stone has the power to grant its wearer strong wit that can help in areas such as communication and negotiation. The green gem is also believed to bring prosperity and abundance. Spiritually beliefs say that it is a powerful stone that promotes regeneration and recovery as it is aligned to the Heart chakra.

Emerald is also a popular option for engagement rings and one of the best alternatives to diamonds. It is believed that the stone encourages fidelity and a blissful marital life. The gemstone is the traditional 20th Wedding Anniversary stone and it symbolizes the everlasting love of couples that only gets better through the years.

2. Agate

Above: Agate and its banding. Credit: malachit-obchod@Pixabay

Agate is the traditional May gemstone. It is an opaque, semi-precious stone that comes in diverse patterns and colors. Due to the way it’s formed, agate is generally a banded stone. The banding distinguishes agate from other members of the chalcedony gem family such as jasper and bloodstone.

As mentioned, agate is found in a diverse spectrum of colors and patterns. You can find them in colors ranging from amber, bright blue, to deep black.

In his thesis On Stones, Greek philosopher Theophrastus said that agate got its name from Achates, a river in Sicily now known as Acate or the Dirillo, where the stones were sourced. The rock is still found in that region to this day.

Agates have found uses in many other areas such as decoration and adornment. Specifically, agates had been incorporated into necklaces, earrings, rings, and rosary beads; they are utilized to create decorative spheres, hearts, and eggs. Thanks to their durability and visual pleasantness, agates were used as basins or bowls in ancient times. Abundant specimens of these basins can be seen and enjoyed in European museums up to this day.

Different agates have different meanings. But in general, agate symbolizes balance, stability, self-confidence, and amplification of one’s natural ability.

The month of May is ruled by the astrological signs Taurus and Gemini which are both associated with the agate stone. Those who were born under the astrological sign Taurus are known to be prudent and reliable. Wearing an agate gem can help them increase their productivity. It can also keep them inspired in fulfilling their plans and goals for the future. The Geminis can also benefit greatly from this stone. Those who were born under this astrological sign are known to be flexible and quick-witted but they can also tend to be nervous and inconsistent. Wearing an agate stone can aid them in remaining calm and focused. The soft vibration of this stone promotes a well-balanced life by harmonizing the Yin and Yang energies.

Although some agate can be very expensive, it is on average less expensive than the other May birthstones, emerald and sapphire. This makes it perfect as a more affordable gift for May birthdays and as a decorative birthstone.

3. Sapphire

Above: Cut Sapphire. Credit: johnno49@Pixabay

Sapphire is the mystical birthstone for May. It belongs to the corundum gem family. Although the word sapphire often brings up the image of a blue gemstone, it can exist in many different colors, such as orange and green. However, a special case exists for the color red. Instead of being a red sapphire, red corundum has a unique designation—ruby.

Sapphire symbolizes intelligence, knowledge, nobility, wisdom, truth, and sincerity. The blue gemstone is also believed to protect its owner and has healing powers.

For over a thousand years, this gem ruled as the May birthstone in the Tibetan civilization. It is purported to provide mental clarity and emotional stability. Sapphires were used by the Tibetans as prayer beads to facilitate prayer and meditation. In Buddhism, the precious gem is believed to promote spiritual enlightenment, especially the blue sapphires.

In the Middle Ages, clerics adorned blue sapphires because it was believed that the gemstone was connected to heaven.

May Birthstone Poem

Who first beholds the light of day
In spring’s sweet flowery month of May,
And wears an emerald all her life,
Shall be a loved and happy wife.

The happiest wife and mother in the land
Wears an emerald shining on her hand.

Source:
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015058386882&view=1up&seq=10

Birthstones by Month

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

Birth Flowers

January / February / March / April / May / June / July / August / September / October / November / December

Aries / Taurus / Gemini / Cancer / Leo / Virgo / Libra / Scorpio / Sagittarius / Capricorn / Aquarius / Pisces

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