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September Birthstones

Madame Constella — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 05:31:57 +0000

These three gemstones represent the month of September. Find out what makes them September’s birthstones and what are their meanings and symbolism.

September is the ninth month of the Gregorian calendar. In the northern hemisphere, September marks the beginning of Fall, whereas in the southern hemisphere, it is the beginning of spring. The name September came from Latin word Septem which means “seven” because September was originally the seventh month in the Roman calendar. September is host to two zodiac signs: Virgo and Libra. The birth flowers for September are Aster and Morning Glory.

The month of September boasts three unique gemstones as its birthstones. For this article, we’ve picked three unique gemstones that best represent September: sapphire, lapis lazuli, and carnelian. Let’s take a closer look at these marvelous September gems.

1. Sapphire

Photo: Cushion-cut sapphire Credit: Wiener Edelstein Zentrum @ Wikimedia Commons

Sapphire is a modern September birthstone. Among the three gemstones on our list, sapphire is without a doubt the most expensive and most popular birthstone for September.

Sapphire belongs to the same gem family as ruby, which is the corundum. The precious stone is known for its deep, lustrous blue. Besides blue, sapphire is also found in a wide variety of colors: purple, yellow, black, and orange—just to name a few. However, there’s no such thing as a red sapphire; red sapphire has a designation of its own: ruby.

Sapphire has long been associated with the color blue. As a matter of fact, the word “sapphire’ came from the Greek word “sapphirus” which means “blue.” The Greeks also believed sapphires to be associated with the Apollo, the God of Sun and Light.

In a different part of the world, the ancient Persians believed that our world exists on a giant sapphire. One of the pieces of evidence that supported that belief was the sky’s blue hue is a reflection of the blue gemstone. While that may not be true, it is true that earth looks like a gorgeous blue gemstone from outer space. In the Middle Ages, Christian clerics reportedly wear sapphire for its spiritual connection to heaven.

Sapphire is a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, intelligence, and fidelity. Some call it the stone of wisdom. Sapphire’s innate connection to knowledge and wisdom means that the blue gem’s power extends to a variety of different areas, such as education, research, self-improvement, decision making, and critical thinking.

As a symbol of eternal fidelity, sapphire is an excellent choice for a solitaire engagement ring or as a secondary gemstone on a diamond engagement ring.

2. Lapis Lazuli

Photo: Common-grade lapis lazuli Credit: gracielazerpaurbina @ Pixabay

Lapis Lazuli is an alternative September birthstone. Known for its breathtaking royal blue color, lapis lazuli has been a much sought-after material used in adornments, decorations, and housewares.

At a glance, lapis lazuli and sapphire may not have much in common besides being blue gemstones. But did you know that the term sapphire used to mean lapis lazuli? That’s right. Before taking the name lapis lazuli some time during the Middle Ages, the ultramarine-blue stone used to be called sapphire. One could think that the two gemstones share the same ancestry.

The September stone lapis lazuli is often cloudy if not fully opaque. Most lapis lazuli stones have flecks of white or gold in them. The white flecks are a result of calcite inclusion. While the gold flecks are a result of containing pyrite—also known as Fool’s Gold. In general, the purer the blue the more valuable the stone is. The inclusion of calcite diminishes the value. Pyrite inclusion is an exception, lapis lazulis with gold flecks and no white flecks usually fetch the highest prices.

This resemblance to the darkened heavens has made the stones a symbol of the night sky for millennia. The earliest evidence of lapis lazuli being mined was found in Afghanistan and dates back to 700 BC and people have been seeking out the stones ever since. Ancient Egyptians wore lapis lazuli because they felt it would grant them wisdom and insight into the universe. Ancient Sumerians took it a step further and believed that their gods actually resided in the deep blue stones.

Lapis lazuli is believed to be a powerful stone. Its blue hue links them to the brow chakra which controls not only physical sight but the third eye and spiritual sight as well. Sometimes called the “wisdom stone,” lapis lazuli are worn when the owner is looking to better understand their deepest self. Not to be taken lightly, these stones will help you to understand your whole truth, both positive and negative.

For sharing the same ancestry as sapphire—in many ways, lapis lazuli is the ancestor to the modern-day sapphire–lapis lazuli shares the symbolism as sapphire. Lapis lazuli symbolizes royalty, wisdom, knowledge, and stability.

Nowadays sapphire is probably the more popular and more expensive blue gemstone, but don’t let that from stopping you to add the gorgeous lapis lazuli to your collection.

3. Carnelian

Photo: Carnelian Credit: Elderberry Arts @ Flickr

Carnelian is a spiritual and alternative September birthstone. It’s sometimes called sard. Fun fact: sard is a crucial component in sardonyx—an August birthstone.

In many ways, carnelian is the opposite of the other September gemstones. Where sapphire and lapis lazuli are blue, carnelian comes in a rich, warm red-orange color. Where sapphire is extremely hard, carnelian is a softer stone and has a long history of being carved into cameos and signets. Not only were carnelians carved into cameos, many people in the Arab and Muslim world believed that carving symbols and runes into these stones would turn them into a powerful talisman. Gem cutters would often carve small prayers for luck or to ward off evil into the stones. This practice was so prevalent and that when Napoleon was in Egypt during the 1700s he acquired one such stone which he held in high regard.

Today, the gemstone of September carnelians are sought out for their connection to the physical body and health. Their orange color is associated not only with power but with the sacral chakra. Placing these stones over your sacral chakra during meditation increases confidence, vitality, and fertility. Another popular use for carnelians is to put them near the front door of your home to invite in abundance and good fortunes.

Wrapping Up

In this article we discussed three gemstones that represent September: sapphire, lapis lazuli, carnelian.

Birthstones by Month

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

References

https://www.gia.edu/lapis-lazuli-description-v1

The post September 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

The post May Birthstones appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

April Birthstones

Madame Constella — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 10:17:27 +0000

These three gemstones are the birthstones of April. Find out the identities, origins, and myths of these April gems–as well as their meanings and symbolism.

April & Birthstones

April is the fourth month in the Gregorian calendar. In the Northern Hemisphere, April is considered spring in countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Germany. The origin of its name is ancient. Long ago, the Romans named the month Aprillis in Latin. Many believe that since Roman months were named in honor of gods and goddesses, and that April was a sacred month for the Goddess of Love Venus, April might have been derived from Venus’s equivalent Greek goddess Aphrodite.

Author: Unknown, Source: Tiffany & Co. (1870 & 1907). More about this poem.

Birthstones or natal stones are gemstones that designate your birthday. Besides monthly birthstones, there are designated gemstones that represent your particular birth year, birthday, day of birth, and zodiac sign. It is important to understand that it is a fluid list. Throughout history and across different cultures, there had been a number of different gemstones designated as the April birthstones. For the purpose of this article, we’re picking three unique gemstones to represent April: diamond, sapphire, and opal. The former two are the most popular April birthstones in the western culture while the latter, opal, is a mystical birthstone that originated from ancient Tibet that will add some variety to this list.

Three Birthstones of April

1. Diamond

Diamond is both a modern and traditional birthstone for April. The symbol of forever love has stood the test of time and remained on April’s birthstone roster.

The name ‘diamond’ came from the Greek word ‘adamas’ meaning ‘unconquerable; indestructible.’ A natural diamond takes billions of years to form. While there are other factors to consider, diamond is generally considered the more expensive gemstone compared to other gemstones.

In terms of chemical composition, diamond is a transparent crystalline form of carbon that is four times harder than corundum. In fact, it is one of the hardest natural materials found on earth.

Cutting a diamond requires knowledge and craftsmanship because of its extreme difficulty. Only one in a million rough diamonds are large enough to produce a one-carat diamond. Today, the ‘Golden Jubilee’ holds the title of being the largest cut diamond in the world. The 755-carat rough stone was cut and polished by Gabriel Tolkowsky. It took him two years to design the world’s largest cut diamond. The diamond was named ‘Golden Jubilee’ because it was sent as a gift to the King of Thailand for his 50th Coronation Anniversary in 1997.

Aside from being a symbol of love, diamond also symbolizes strength, perseverance, courage, elegance, and luxury. Wearing a diamond is beneficial for it is believed to make you become strong physically. Diamond is purported to carry energy that promotes mental clarity that helps you to overcome the challenges and difficulties in life. For being one of the hardest materials in the world, it is understandable that diamond is also believed to be a protective gemstone that protects the wearer from physical harm and curses. As a specific example, diamond is believed to ward off the curse of evil eyes. One anonymous second-century BCE poet wrote about this particular belief about diamond:-

The evil eye shall have no power to harm
Him that shall wear the diamond as a charm.

For over 500 years, diamond has been the most preferred jewel for engagement rings and wedding rings. This tradition can be traced back to medieval Europe in the year 1477 when Mary, Duchess of Burgundy, received a diamond engagement ring from Archduke Maximilian of Austria. This inspired many wealthy people and other royalties. Later on as diamond became more affordable (but still expensive), it became a common practice among regular folks.

2. Sapphire

Above: Cut sapphire gemstone. Credit: johno49 @ Pixabay

Sapphire is a traditional birthstone for April. Some call it the ancient April birthstone because its history as an April gem traces back to the Renaissance period. Nowadays, sapphire is perhaps better known as the September birthstone, but the fate of April borns and sapphire are intertwined through centuries of association, and that isn’t something that you can just shake off. Tiffany’s birthstone poem in 1907 gave a nod to sapphire’s position as April birthstone (see the beginning of this article).

Although sapphire exists in many different colors, its most famous color is blue. Due to the presence of different chemical elements, sapphire forms in all possible colors. Besides blue sapphires, other sapphire colors are yellow, purple, green, brown, violet, orange, pink, colorless, and black.

The mysteriously fascinating black sapphire is a variety of corundum. It can either be in semitransparent or opaque form. The Black Star of Queensland mined in Australia is the world’s largest black star sapphire which weighs 733 carats. A star sapphire is a unique variety that displays a prominent star pattern that seems to float on its surface. The rare gem was cut by Harry Kazanjian who decided to sacrifice over 400 carats for it not to lose its star pattern.

In terms of meaning and symbolism, sapphire takes a different direction from its modern counterpart diamond. While sapphires are also believed to protect to their owners, the blue gemstones are better known as a symbol of truth, sincerity, intelligence, knowledge, wisdom, and nobility. Sapphire also has a heavenly connection, for it was believed that it symbolizes heaven. For this reason, sapphires were worn by clerics of the Middle Ages.

Sapphire is a good gift option for those born in April considering its positive vibrational patterns.

3. Opal

Above: Opal and its rainbow colors. Credit: tshearer@Flickr

Opal is the mystical birthstone for April and a modern birthstone for October. The mystical birthstone list originated from a Tibetan culture that existed from the 7th to 9th centuries AD. If you’re interested in the metaphysical realm, this mystical birthstone may just have a stronger spiritual connection to April borns better than its modern and traditional counterparts.

The name opal was derived from upala in Sanskrit. Upala means “jewel,” or “stone.” Interestingly, opal used to be a popular female name in the US in the early 20th century. However, its popularity dwindled as the century unfold.

Opal differentiates itself from other gemstones with its unique rainbow hue, better known as “play-of-color.” The gorgeous array of colors that seems to be trapped inside this stone will always leave one mesmerized.

Chemically, the opal gem is a shapeless form of silica that is chemically combined with water molecules. The stone forms as the silica deposits are carried by rainwater into cracks and voids through the earth.

Opal symbolizes truth, hope, purity, and energy.

People born in April are lucky to have this rainbow gem as their birthstone. Just like the rainbow, opal brings the promise of better days and grants the feeling of hope to its wearer. It is also believed to possess moon energy that can boost intuition. Coincidentally, opal is one of the stones that can be found in the moon together with peridot.

April Birthstone Poem

She who from April dates her years,
Diamonds shall wear, lest bitter tears
For vain repentance flow. This stone
Emblem of innocence is known.

Innocent, repentant —
Sun and shower —
Wears a diamond or a sapphire
As her dower.

The April birthstone poem found at the beginning of this article and in the image above was published by Tiffany’s in 1870 and 1907.

In 1870, Tiffany & Company (also known as Tiffany & Co. and Tiffany’s) published twelve poems dedicated to the monthly birthstones in a pamphlet. The poems were credited to an “unknown author.” From the source that we have, we believe that only the first stanza of the poem was published during this time.

About forty years after that, in 1907, Tiffany’s published Natal Stones: Sentiments and Superstitions Associated with Precious Stones authored by George Frederick Kunz. In the 30-page book, a second stanza was added for each of the poems. The second stanza for the April poem was the only one that gave acknowledgment to the older April gemstone which was sapphire.

The book also suggested that the April flower was Daisy.

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

The post April Birthstones appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.