CGNY Birthstone Origins

Sterling silver jewelry is a reflection of who we are - capturing a memory, passion or relationship. We gravitate to jewelry that has meaning- and birthstone jewelry is often the first connection we have with the world of gems. 

Birthstones have a rich history dating back to ancient times. Some of the first birthstone references appear in the book of Exodus where Aaron’s breastplate is described. The breastplate featured twelve gemstones that represented the tribes of Israel. The twelve stones were introduced as the twelve signs of the zodiac which carried special powers.  Wearing these stones was believed to have therapeutic benefits and later on, it became custom to wear the birthstones of each month. 

Origins aside, it is delightful to think that each of us is assigned a special stone to represent the month we are born-  digging into the legends and stories of the past only adds to the intrigue…

January - Garnet

The Garnet is known to enhance spiritual healing, symbolizing perseverance, strength, commitment and tenacity.

February - Amethyst

Amethyst features a lovely deep purple coloration and is considered one of the most striking gemstones worldwide for its distinctive beauty. Amethyst is prized for the associated qualities of peace, courage, stability and sincerity that it is thought to bestow on the wearer.

March - Blue Topaz

The Blue Topaz evokes images of the wind, sky, and water. Blue is the color of calm and quiet. This popular gemstone channels relaxing energy and fights chaos and negative emotion.

April - White Topaz

White Topaz is used for meditation.  The gemstone’s soothing energy cleanses the emotions of the wearer and replaces negativity with love, joy and peace. 

May - Green Quartz

Green Quartz is a stone of clarity used to purify the mind. Known for its magnificent green tone, this stunning stone clarifies thought processes and emotions. It is also known to foster inspiration and boost creativity.

June - White Pearl

Simply donning White Pearls reminds the wearer to be honest, pure, wise and to maintain the utmost dignity. White Pearls symbolize innocence, faith and honesty.

July - Carnelian

Carnelian is a power stone known for its qualities of ambition and drive.  Helpful in making choices and decisions, Carnelian is the most powerful action stone for focusing, realization and self-actualization.

August - Peridot

Peridot is known as the stone of emotional healing and has been used as a power stone for centuries. Peridot fosters emotional balance and helps with healing past emotional wounds

September – Iolite

Lolite is an excellent stone for meditation and travelling, helping the wearer grow spiritually in a gentle fashion.  It is considered a very strong "Shaman" stone and can stimulate clear psychic visions.

October- Tourmaline

Pink Tourmaline brings comforting energy and transforms negative behavior in a positive direction. Admired for its lovely translucent coloration, Pink Tourmaline stands for love, spirituality and understanding.

November - Citrine

Citrine brings happiness, joy and optimism into your life.  One of only two minerals on the planet which does not hold or accumulate negative energy, but rather dispels and transforms it. Citrine energizes, and promotes warmth, comfort, and energy.

December - Turquoise

A truth stone, turquoise symbolizes a time to be honest with yourself. This gemstone is a one of self-realization, helping you to better understand your ideas and emotions.