Birthstones have captivated people for centuries, offering a unique blend of beauty, symbolism, and history. Each month of the year is associated with a distinct gemstone, believed to bring special powers and qualities to those born under its influence. Whether it’s a sparkling sapphire, a fiery ruby, or a lush emerald, these stones carry meanings rooted in mythology and tradition. There’s no better place to explore the enchanting world of birthstones than at the NJ Gem Show.
If you’re curious about the origins and meanings behind your birthstone—or all twelve, for that matter—here’s a quick guide to help you understand what makes each gem so special.
Below are some popular crystals and the qualities generally attributed to them by online and many book resources.
January – Garnet
Garnet, with its rich red hues, symbolizes protection and energy. It has been used as a talisman for travelers, believed to safeguard them from harm and promote courage.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst’s deep purple color represents peace, calm, and clarity. Known as the “stone of sobriety,” it was once believed to prevent intoxication and has been cherished for its calming effects.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine, with its tranquil blue color, embodies serenity and clarity. Historically, it was thought to calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea, making it a stone of protection and tranquility.
April – Diamond
The diamond, famed for its brilliance and hardness, symbolizes eternal love and strength. It’s known as a symbol of invincibility and is often associated with purity and commitment.
May – Emerald
Emerald’s lush green color represents rebirth and renewal. It’s considered a stone of love and is believed to bring the wearer foresight, good fortune, and youth.
June – Pearl
Pearls, with their delicate and organic beauty, symbolize purity and wisdom. Often associated with the moon, they’re said to enhance personal integrity and attract good luck.
July – Ruby
Ruby, with its vibrant red hue, is a stone of passion and vitality. It’s believed to promote courage, enthusiasm, and love, often regarded as a protective stone against misfortune.
August – Peridot
Peridot’s lime green color symbolizes strength and good health. Known as the “evening emerald,” it was treasured by ancient Egyptians and is believed to bring happiness and prosperity.
September – Sapphire
Sapphire’s deep blue color represents wisdom and loyalty. It has long been a symbol of nobility and faith, thought to guard against envy and harm.
October – Opal
Opal’s play of colors embodies hope and creativity. It was once considered a symbol of good luck and was thought to possess all the virtues of each gemstone within its vibrant spectrum.
November – Topaz
Topaz, with its golden-yellow hues, symbolizes warmth and affection. It’s believed to calm tempers, restore energy, and bring joy and abundance to those who wear it.
December – Turquoise
Turquoise, with its unique blue-green color, represents healing and protection. Native American cultures revered it as a powerful protective stone, often used in amulets and talismans.
Discover the Magic at the NJ Gem Show
Exploring these stones at the NJ Gem Show is an experience like no other. As you walk through the aisles, you’ll find dazzling birthstones in every form—raw, polished, or set into jewelry. Each gem tells a story, not only of its geological origins but also of the cultures and myths that have elevated these stones to their iconic status.