Unsurpassed by the sun from the summit of Israel’s highest peak, shone the Breastplate of Aaron— a woven gold garment dressed with twelve gemstones in four rows of three. A ceremonial costume handmade by Moses, here, the origin of the birthstone began. Experts trace these beginnings back to the Book of Exodus when Aaron, Hebrews high priest, bore the beaming ensemble to symbolize Israel’s twelve tribes. Where their legacy was lost a bejeweled tradition was formed, as people forged beliefs in the powers and properties associated with Earth’s minerals.
Those who wear birthstones are said to have good luck, health, and protection. The stones are believed to possess amazing powers and can even show wearers their fate. Astrologers long ago attributed supernatural powers to certain gemstones and in Hindu tradition, stones with mystical powers have been found in ancient literature as well. The Ratna Pariska, for example, chronicles the connections between gems and deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week as those who wear their birthstones are believed to inhibit a cosmic harmony. Stones are a symbol of status and wealth and harness the power of the planets while warding off harm and negativity. The birthstones assigned with each month can be found in a modern list as well as traditional:
Modern Birthstone List
- January - Garnet
- February - Amethyst
- March - Aquamarine
- April - Diamond
- May - Emerald
- June - Alexandrite
- July - Ruby
- August - Peridot or Spinel
- September - Sapphire
- October - Tourmaline
- November - Golden Topaz or Citrine
- December - Blue Topaz or Tanzanite
Traditional Birthstone List
- January - Garnet
- February - Amethyst
- March - Bloodstone
- April - Diamond
- May - Emerald
- June - Alexandrite
- July - Ruby
- August - Sardonyx
- September - Sapphire
- October - Opal
- November - Topaz
- December - Turquoise or Lapis Lazuli
Yet while these illustrious stones boast religious beginnings, it wasn’t until 500 years later that a connection was made between Aaron’s breastplate and the zodiac signs. In 18th century Poland, more contemporary practices finally determined that each stone belonged to a specific calendar month. Suddenly, the popularity of jewels and gemstones flourished as birthstones were found adorning rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings as wearers enjoyed flaunting their birthstone not just on one day but on any occasion. So once handmade by Moses on a garment fit for a king, the unique properties and powers associated with birthstones became a sacred tradition that is widely celebrated now. The rich history and the fun, glistening colors of birthstones make for amazing gifts with the added benefit of beauty, good fortune, wealth, protection, and cosmic energy.
