Birthstone - The Fascinating History of Birthstones - Birthstone Traditions Throughout the Centuries
The first record of the concept of birthstones comes from the writings of Josephus, a famous Jewish historian during the 1st Century. He noted the connection between the 12 stones worn on the breastplate of the Jewish high priest, the 12 signs of zodiac and the 12 months of the year. According to certain translations of the biblical verses, the 12 stones on the priestly breastplate were: ruby, topaz, beryl, turquoise, sapphire, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, chrysolite, onyx, and jasper. The tradition of wearing birthstones comes from eighteenth century Poland. However instead of each person wearing the stone for their birth month, everyone had 12 stones and wore each stone during its designated month, believing that during its month a stone harnessed the most energy. Today the custom has morphed into people wearing their natal stone and it is believed that the birthstone is connected to their personality and fate.
Why Should People Wear Their Birthstone? - Shop for Birthstones Online
Most ancient cultures celebrate the mystical and Divine aspects of a birthday. The arrival of a soul to the world occurs at the most auspicious time for that person to actualize their unique personality and mission. As if all of the cosmos, the stars and heavenly bodies, align in a special way at the very moment of birth to bestow a specific fortune to each person. Hence the idea of the Zodiac; the belief that the constellations and celestial signs present at the time of birth endow the individual with their luck, their root character traits and their potential.
The Difference Between Modern & Zodiac Birthstones
Enmeshed in the ancient belief in the power of the Zodiac is the idea that each of the 12 signs is symbolized by a color and corresponding gemstone. Every birthstone contains unique energies and offers a particular type of protection. By tapping in to the attributes of the gemstone and wearing the birthstone as a talisman the wearer can influence the planets in their favor. In more modern times, the concept of birthstones has been adapted to correspond with the Gregorian 12 month calendar, yet the idea remains the same. Wearing birthstone jewelry is a way to express the essence of your predestined fortune and to channel the gemstone properties your stone offers, receiving the benefits of protection, luck and success.
Huge Selection of Natural Birthstone Gemstones at AfricaGems.com Awaits You
With a wide array of loose stones and gorgeous gem jewelry to choose from, you will surely find a way to display your birthstone in a way that is attractive and special for you. Also, birthstone gifts are always thoughtful and meaningful presents and are an especially appropriate way to commemorate birthdays. Be sure to peruse through our amazing selection of birthstone gems and jewelry. Fuse the ancient mystical birthstone custom with your personal tastes and styles for fashionable, individualized jewelry that will express your uniqueness.
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More Information About Birthstone from Wikipedia
