See the list of modern birthstones by month below.

January- Garnet

Color: Dark red

Meaning: Protection

Garnet brings purity, truth, faithfulness and friendship.

Garnets are typically known for being a burgundy red color, but they actually come in many
colors like green, yellow and even dark brown. Garnets have a high refractive index which gives
onlookers the impression that the gem is emitting light. Garnet is derived from the Latin word
meaning grain or seed, and a possible reference to a pomegranate. Red garnets were the most
popular gemstone of the end of the Roman Empire.
It also a present for 2nd anniversary.

Birthstone: Garnet

What’s in a Name: Derived from the Latin word for seed, granatum, the seed in the case of
garnet is the red shade of a pomegranate seed.
Some Places Where it’s Found: Czech Republic, Greece, Russian, Tanzania, Madagascar, Sri
Lanka, and India

True Colors: While the most widely known color is the red of the Pyrope Garnet, the stone
comes in lots of other shades including orange Mandarin Garnets and green Tsavorite Garnets.

Photo Monique Péan

Today’s Treasure: Monique Péan garnet, diamond and white gold earrings

The Spiritual: Garnets represent goodwill, happiness, and purpose. It is also believed garnets
bring peace, prosperity and health to a home.

The Physical: Garnet is thought to heal wounds, stimulate metabolism and purify blood. There is
the notion that it’s almost an anti-depressant. It is has a pay it forward component. There is a
belief that those who do good while wearing garnet will be the recipients of goodwill. In the past,
garnet was worn by warriors and as a talisman of protection.

The Historical: The Egyptians believed garnets were a symbol of life. Nobility in ancient Rome
wore garnets in signet rings. During the Victorian period garnets were at a peak of popularity and
appeared in all kinds of jewels.
February- Amethyst

 Color: Purple

Meaning: Wisdom

Amethyst is said to bring good luck, stability and intuition.

Amethyst comes in a variety of purples, from light lavender to deep dark purple. Amethyst is a
semi-precious gemstone in the quartz family and it can be found all over the world. Africa is the
leading supplier of amethysts today with rich purple gems offering pink & red hues. Uruguay is
another supplier of amethysts that have an electric blue flash. Amethyst is said to be derived
from the Greek word meaning intoxication. The Greeks believed that wearing an amethyst would
protect them from becoming drunk. They have been set into jewelry since ancient Egypt and
continue to be very popular today.

It is also a present for the 6th wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Amethyst

What’s in a Name: The word for sober in ancient Greek, amethustos, oddly enough inspired the
word amethyst. While it sounds like the wordsmiths might have been drinking when they came
up with this one, the term was actually based on the belief that an amethyst could prevent the
person wearing it from becoming drunk.

Some Places Where it’s Found: United States, Canada, Brazil and Zambia

True Colors: Ranging from deep purple to pastel pink, the variety of quartz often occurs in
geodes or in the cavities of granitic rocks.
Photo Renee Lewis/Barneys

Today’s Treasure: Renee Lewis Mismatched Amethyst Earrings 

The Spiritual: Amethysts are thought to enhance creativity, passion and harmony. Often used in
meditation, the energy of an amethyst is believed to help stability, humility and relaxation.

The Physical: Natural hormone balancer is one of the properties amethysts are thought to have.
Others include the ability to build the immune system, reduce bruising and pain.

The Historical: When amethysts were rare, they were as prized as diamonds. Monarchs used
amethyst as a symbol of royalty. The gem was believed to promote prophecy among other
things.

March- Aquamarine or Bloodstone

Aquamarine-

Color: Blue or Cyan

Meaning: Serenity

Aquamarine represents sympathy, trust, harmony and friendship

Aquamarine comes in a great variety of blues. From translucent blue to a sea blue/green. This
makes it a perfect accent for spring fashion. Aquamarine comes from the beryl family- the same
family as the emerald. The blue color comes from iron deposits where the stone is formed. The
most common mines are in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and South-East Asia. Usually the larger stones
have more intense colors. The darker colors are harder to find naturally, but the value of the
deeper colors has led to heat treatment of the stones to darken the color. The name comes from
the Latin word “aqua,” which means water, and “marina,” which means the sea. Sailors believed
in its protection and brought them on voyages.

It is also a present for the 19th wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Aquamarine

What’s in a Name: The serenely colored aquamarine invokes the tranquility of the two Latin
words that inspired its name: aqua for water and marina, for sea.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and
Mozambique

True Colors: Aquamarines range in color from pale to deep blue with several greenish blue
varieties.

Photo Asprey

Today’s treasure: Asprey aquamarine, diamond and white gold Daisy Heritage ring

The Spiritual: The gem is used as an aid for meditation and spirituality. It is supposed to
provide a sense of calm and tranquility. A stone of empowerment, it is believed to encourage
honest and compassionate communication.
The Physical: Aquamarine is thought to heal sinus conditions, allergies and respiratory
problems, teeth and gum issues, as well as tired eyes. It is known as a cooling gem.

The Historical: The Greeks and the Romans considered aquamarines the treasure of mermaids.
Sailors believed they would safeguard a ship in a storm. It was also believed to protect soldiers
going into battle.

Eighteenth century bloodstone scorpion intaglio ring Photo © Victoria and Albert Museum,
London

Traditional March Birthstone: Bloodstone

What’s in a Name: The red blood-like lines that run through the green stone inspired the name.

Some Places Where It’s Found: India, Brazil, and Australia

True Colors: A variety of jasper, the dark-green stone is flecked with vivid red spots of iron
oxide.

Photo Lang Antiques

Today’s Treasures: Not many contemporary designers use bloodstone in their work. If you are
looking for the gem seek vintage pieces like this Victorian watch fob from Lang Antiques that
could be worn as a pendant.

The Spiritual: Some believe Bloodstone helps with mental clarity, creativity or energy.

The Physical: Bloodstones are generally considered a healing stone, especially with blood
disorders.

The Historical: Many ancient civilizations used the stone to assist in their divination and
magically defeat their enemies. Crazy as it sounds, the ancient Egyptians claimed the stone had
the power to make them invisible.

Bloodstone-

Color: Dark green with red, brown and multicolor spots

Meaning: Creativity & Protection

Bloodstone represents knowledge

Bloodstones are usually cut into cabochons, but can be cut into faceted stones if they are very
high quality. They are part of the chalecodony family. This family consists of thin layers of tiny
quartz fibers. Because of these fibers, it is very tough and recognized as an excellent carving
material. In the Middle Ages the red spots in the stone were thought to be the blood of Jesus and
the stone was thought to have miraculous powers.
April-Diamond

Color: White, Black, Pink, Yellow, Blue

Meaning: Strength

Diamonds represent true love, passion and spirituality

Diamonds are the most expensive, precious and coveted gemstone. They are also extremely
luminous. Diamonds are the hardest naturally occurring material and they are made from carbon.
Because of their hardness they are also used in the industry for cutting and polishing tools. Most
diamonds were formed between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years ago at depths between 93- 155
miles in the Earth’s mantle. The name diamond is derived from the Greek word ‘Adamas’ which
means invincible. Approximately 130 million carats are mined annually with a total value of $9
billion. Originally diamonds were only found in India in the 9th century BC. Around the time
these sources were exhausted, Brazil eclipsed India in production. In the 1870s diamonds were
found in Africa. Production has increased over time and now about 49% of diamonds come from
there. New mines have also started production and they are located in Canada, Zimbabwe,
Angola, and Russia. Today, most commercially viable diamond deposits are in Russia,
Botswana, Australia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The colorless beauty and inner fire
of the diamond has made this precious gem prized for centuries. It is the stone of commitment,
faithfulness, and promise between partners.

It is also a present for the 10th, 60th & 75th wedding anniversaries.

Birthstone: Diamond

What’s in a Name: The Greek words adamas meaning unbreakable and diaphanus for
transparent were merged together to form the term diamond.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Australia, Botswana, Canada, South Africa and Russia

True Colors: Most diamonds are transparent or white. The gem also comes in all colors of the
rainbow. Any diamond other than a white diamond is called a fancy colored diamond.
Photo Eva Fehren/Barneys

Today’s Treasure: Eva Fehren diamond and rose gold Kent ring

The Spiritual: Diamonds are believed to bring a sense of radiance, energy and light to the soul.
The super hard stone is thought to provide strength and clarity in stressful situations.

The Physical: The gem is considered a support stone and a master healer to unify the mind and
body. Diamonds are also thought to be beneficial in strengthening brain functions and cleansing
the organs.

The Historical: Warriors in ancient Greece wore diamonds to make themselves invincible while
the Romans regarded the stone as a symbol of innocence and purity. During the Renaissance,
diamonds were first used as engagement rings.
May- Emerald

Color: Green

Meaning: Hope

Emerald symbolizes loyalty, faith, love and friendship

Emeralds are a rich & majestic green color because of trace amounts of chrominum. The finest
stones will be saturated and have a hue that is vivid. They are precious gemstones loved by many
people around the world. Emeralds are the rarest gemstones and they are part of the beryl family.
The surface is very scratch resistant, but the crystal lattice that makes up the gem is prone to
fracture from impacts. Emeralds are known to have inclusions and for this reason, an emerald
with no cracks visible to the naked eye is classified as flawless, even if there are flaws that can
be identified using magnification. They are typically mined in Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan,
and Zambia. Emeralds are named after the Latin word ‘esmaralda’ which translates roughly to a
green gem.

It is also a present for the 20th& 35th wedding anniversaries.

Birthstone: Emerald

What’s in a Name: Unlike other gems, it is difficult to find the root of the word emerald in the
Latin term for the gem smaragdus.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan and Zambia

True Colors: Emerald ranges from yellow-green to blue-green with the finest being a pure green
hue.

Photo Judy Geib/Barneys

Today’s Treasure: Judy Geib Colombian Emerald Bracelet

The Spiritual: Emerald is believed to have many mystical powers. It is said to transform
negativity into positive energy, security, harmony and spirituality.

The Physical: Just looking at emeralds was once believed to cure stomach, skin and intestinal
problems. The gem was also thought to be able to keep the wearer’s attitude serene.

The Historical: Emeralds were mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC. Cleopatra famously
collected the stone. The Egyptians used emeralds in jewelry and in elaborate burials as a symbol
of protection.

June- Pearl or Alexandrite or Moonstone

Pearl-
Color: White, Pink, Silver, Cream, Brown, Green, Blue, Black, Yellow, Orange, Red, Gold,
Purple

Meaning: Purity

Pearls represent beauty, happiness, love and wealth.

Pearls are the only gem that are created by living creatures. Naturally occurring pearls are very
rare, usually they are cultured. Pearls are cultivated primarily for jewelry. They are made from
multiple layers of nacre built-up. The thinner and more numerous the layers, the finer the luster
of the pearl. The iridescence comes from the overlapping of the layers, which breaks up the light
falling on the surface. Fresh water and salt water pearls look similar but they come from different
mollusks. Pearls have been associated with innocence and modesty.

It is also a present for the 3rd & 30th wedding anniversaries.

Alexandrite-

Color: Green to Redish-Purple depending on light

Meaning: Love & Luck

Alexandrite represents positive balance, self-esteem and is a good omen.

Alexandrite is the color changing cousin in the Chrysoberyl family. The Alexandrite Gemstone
has the unique characteristic of appearing green in the daylight and redish-purple in artificial
light. This phenomenon is called pleochroism. This gem was thought to be quite rare, but
recently they have been found in Africa. There does not seem to be any writings about
Alexandrite in ancient text. It was unknown until 1830 when it seems to have been discovered on
the birthday of Czar Alexander II. The stone was named in his honor.

It is also a present for the 55th wedding anniversary.

Moonstone-

Color: Colorless to White, Gray, Brown, Yellow, Orange, Green, or Pink

Meaning: New beginnings & love

Moonstone brings balance, inner strength and protection

Moonstone comes in a variety of types and colors. The clarity ranges from transparent to
translucent and each type has different colors reflected inside the stone. The most sought after
moonstone has a blue sheen, perfect clarity and a colorless body color. Moonstones can be beads,
but they are most popularly cabochons. Moonstones can be mined in Armenia, Australia,
Mexico, Madagascar, Myanmar, Norway, Poland, India, Sri Lanka and the US. The various
colors come from India and the other sources yield only white moonstone stones. Ancient people
believed the moonstone changed with the phases of the Moon. Today it is Florida’s state stone to
commemorate the lunar moon landing; although it is no found in FL.

Birthstone: Pearl

What’s In A Name: The name pearl originates from the Latin word for leg, perna. It rather
imaginatively is a reference to the leg-of-mutton shape of an open mollusk shell.

Some Places Where It’s Found: China, Australia, Philippines and Indonesia

True Colors: The only gem made by living creatures, pearls come in a range of colors from
white to black Tahitian pearls and rare pink Conch pearls.

Irene Neuwirth pearl and gold ring Photo Irene Neuwirth/Matches

Today’s Treasure: Irene Neuwirth Pearl and Gold Ring

The Spiritual: Pearls are believed to create a sense of balance and provide emotional healing.
The gem is also associated with faithfulness, loyalty, modesty and purity.

The Physical: Pearls have been used throughout history to help treat the digestive tract, maintain
strong bones and brighten skin in the form of pearl powder.

The Historical: Ancient Greeks believed pearls were tears of the gods. Hindus thought pearls
were tears of the moon. Tudor England became known as the Pearl Age, because the gem was so
popular with nobility.
Moonstone, sapphire and platinum necklace designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany for Tiffany
around 1910 Photo MET Museum

June Birthstone: Moonstone

What’s in a Name: The Roman historian Pliny named moonstones and poetically wrote that the
gem’s shimmery appearance shifted with the phases of the moon.

Some Places Where it’s Found: Sri Lanka, India, Australia, Myanmar, Madagascar and the
United States

True Colors: Composed of microscopic layers of feldspar that scatter light, thin layers of
Moonstone produce a bluish sheen, while the thick layers look white.
Photo Vram/Moda Operandi

Today’s Treasure: Vram Grey Moonstone and Diamond Earclips

The Spiritual: As its name implies, moonstone is closely associated with lunar mystery and
magic. Its balancing energies can supposedly sync with the rhythms of nature, igniting passion
between lovers.

The Physical: Moonstone’s are known as the Traveler’s Stone, because it’s believed to provide
protection at night for people on a trip. Some credit the stone with helping to provide a good
night’s sleep and beautiful dreams as well as treating insomnia and sleepwalking.

The Historical: The ancient Romans and the Greeks treasured the moonstone for it’s connection
to their lunar gods. They believed the stone was formed from moonbeams.
July- Ruby

Color: Red- Pink

Meaning: Vitality

Ruby symbolizes wealth, wisdom, love and passion.

This stone of deep red color is the most precious & rare mined mineral. It is a special form of
corundum, the sapphire family. The red color comes from the chromium present in the ruby.
Rubies with an insufficient amount of chromium are labelled ‘pink sapphires.’ Rubies draw the
highest price per carat of all the colored stones, making it the most expensive and prized stone in
the world.

The most valuable rubies are called pigeon-blood, after the dark-red with blue undertones that
makes them look eerily like blood. The Burmese ruby has been a favorite for hundreds of years.
It has been exported all around the world. Today most rubies are mined in Africa.  Rubies have
been popular since ancient times, with records showing that the Chinese traded them as early as
200 B.C. The ancient Hindus believed that they are endowed with sacred powers and associated
them with royalty and power. Rubies are said to bring will bring harmony to the wearer.

It is also a present for the 15th,  40th, & 80th wedding anniversaries.

Birthstone: Ruby

What’s in a Name: The name ruby comes from the Latin word for red, rubeus.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Burma, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Middle East, East Africa
and the United States

True Colors: The rich red color of the ruby is caused by the element chromium, which also
makes the gem glow from within. While it sounds awful, the best color of rubies is called
“pigeon’s blood.”
Photo HollyDyment/Moda Operandi

Today’s Treasure: Go Lightly Medora Girandole ruby, diamond and gem earrings. 

The Spiritual: Rubies have been a symbol of passion, protection and prosperity since ancient
times. The gem is believed to amplify energy, heighten awareness, promote courage and bring
success in wealth, love and battle.

The Physical: Thought to energize and balance, stimulate the heart chakra and encourage a
passions, the stone is used to detoxify the body and heal the heart and respiratory system.

The Historical: In ancient times, ruby was worn as an amulet to ward off the plague and
diseases. It was also believed to be the most precious of gemstones during the time of the Judean
Temple, for its passion and energy was said to bring love, success and good fortune.
August- Peridot or Spinel

Peridot-

Color: Lime, Yellowish Green, Olive Green or Medium Dark Green

Meaning: Beauty

Peridot represents power, influence, healing and understanding.

Peridot is a gem-quality olivine & silicate mineral. It is the only gem that come comes in one
color, olive-green. The intensity and tint of the green depends on the percentage of iron in the
crystal structure. So the shade of the peridot can vary from yellow to brownish and even medium
dark tones. It is one of the gems that is never treated for color. Mined around the world some of
the most beautiful Peridot comes from Asia and Pakistan. Gem-quality peridot is rare due to its
chemical instability on Earth’s surface. As a result peridot is considered to be precious. Peridot
are the same color in both natural and artificial light. This ability to give off the same green glow
at night led to their association with great beauty, especially in Egyptian culture where they
associate it with the sun. Peridot is believed to protect those who wear it from evil.

It is also a present for the 16th wedding anniversary.

Spinel-

Color: Colorless, Pink, Rose, Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Brown, Black or violet

Meaning: Hope

Spinel is the magnesium/aluminum member of the larger spinel group of minerals. Spinels and
rubies are often found together. Over the last decades they have been found in locations all over
the world, but originally they were found in Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Myanmar. Its
name comes from the Latin word ‘spinella’, which means spine in reference to its pointed
crystals. Some spinels are amid the most famous gemstones- like the Black Prince’s Ruby and
the “Timur Ruby” in the British Crown Jewels, and the ‘Côte de Bretagne’, previously from the
French Crown Jewels. The Samarian Spinel is the largest known spinel in the world, weighing
500 carats. Spinel is perfect to reach for when you’re feeling a lack of energy.
It is also a present for the 22nd wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Peridot

What’s in a Name: There is some debate about the origin of the term, but most believe it comes
from the Greek word for giving plenty, peridona.

Where It’s Found: Arizona, China, Myanmar, Pakistan and Africa

True Colors: It is one of the only gemstones that forms in only one color green. The shades
range from lime green to olive and brown, depending on how much iron is present.

Photo Stephen Dweck

Today’s Treasure: Peridot earrings by Stephen Dweck

The Spiritual: Peridot is believed to stimulate psychological clarity and inspire a sense of

happiness, truth and understanding. Believers think it empowers one to take responsibility and
make decisions, resulting in prosperity and good fortune.

The Physical: The stone is supposed to support the digestive system. It was used as a talisman
during childbirth. Its green energy helps with internal balance, peaceful sleep and releasing
negative feelings.

The History: Ancient Egyptians called peridot the gem of the sun. They believed it protected its
wearer from terrors of the night and harnessed the power of nature.
Imperial State Crown of England featuring the Black Prince Ruby at the front. The gem is in fact
a spinel. Photo © Royal Collection Trust

August Birthstone: Spinel

What’s in a Name: The name spinel originates from the Latin word for form, spina, due to its
pointed crystal shape in rough form or the Greek word spítha for spark in reference to its bright
color.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Afghanistan, and
Australia

True Colors: The most common colors are red, pink, blue and black.

The Spiritual: Spinel is believed to bring high energy and prosperity.

The Physical: Spinel is used for astral travel, as it supposedly helps with gaining and cleansing
the energies.

The Historical: Spinels were often mistaken for rubies. The most famous example of the
confusion was the Black Prince Ruby in the Imperial State Crown of England. In the last 18th
century gemologist figured out the difference between the similar looking gems, but the name
has never been changed for the famous stone in British regalia.
Badge of the Order of Victoria and Albert made around 1863 of a sardonyx cameo in a setting
composed of gold, silver, enamel, diamond, rubies, emeralds, white pastes. Photo © Royal
Collection Trust

Traditional August Birthstone: Sardonyx

What’s in a Name: The name is a combination of two words. Sard is a reference to the ancient
Persian city, Sardis, where the red stone was found. Onyx comes from the Greek word for nail or
claw.

Some Places Where It’s Found: India, Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar,
Uruguay and the United States

True Colors: The presence of iron oxide can affect the stones color, from yellowish to reddish
with zebra-stripe inclusions of multiple layers of white bands.

The Spiritual: Used as a stone of strength and protection since ancient times, sardonyx is
associated with courage and happiness.

The Physical: Sardonyx is believed to release anxiety, depression, and strengthen your immune
system.

The Historical: In ancient Greece and Rome, soldiers wore engraved sardonyx talismans to
battle, believing the stone would grant them courage, victory and protection. The stone was also
used during the Renaissance, as an aid to clear thinking and communication. In jewelry the gem
was mainly used in cameos.
Byzantine sapphire, pearl and gold earring made during the 6th to 7th century.

September- Sapphire
Color: Blue, Yellow, Pink, Purple, Orange, or Greenish

Meaning: Truth

Sapphire symbolizes clear thinking, wisdom, prosperity and beauty.

Sapphire is a precious stone and part of the corundum family. They come in a variety of colors
(except red which is a ruby) but are typically blue. Because of its hardness, sapphire also has
industrial uses, like infrared optical components, watches and circuits. The Apple Watch Series 3
features lab-created sapphire crystal in its screen to make it more scratch-resistant. The cost of
natural sapphires varies depending on their color, clarity, size, cut, and quality. Heat treatment is
very common and those that are completely untreated are worth far more than those that have
been treated. Sapphires are mined all over the world and geographical origin has a major impact
on price. Since the Middle Ages many people have given tribute to the sapphire for both medical
and spiritual healing properties. It is a popular option for engagement rings since Princess
Diana’s proposal ring in 1981. It is said that sapphire is a symbol of loyalty and integrity. It
protects the wearer from envy or harm, and gives the wearer useful foresight into the future.

It is also a present for the 5th, 45th & 70th wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Sapphire

What’s in a Name: The name sapphire comes from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros.
Both mean blue stone.

Where It’s Found: Kashmir, Burma, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam and India among other

places.

True Colors: Although sapphire is generally understood to mean a blue, the gem comes in every
color of the rainbow except red. When the sapphire mineral corundum is red, it is a ruby.
Photo Doryn Wallach/Moda Operandi

Today’s Treasure: Doryn Wallach blue sapphire and gold Gladiator ring

The Spiritual: Sapphires are a symbol of loyalty, nobility, sincerity and integrity. They are
associated with focusing the mind, maintaining self-discipline and channeling higher powers.

The Physical: Blue sapphires are believed to be a cure-all that do just about everything
including help insomniacs sleep.

The Historical: Greeks wore sapphire for guidance when seeking answers from the oracle, while
Buddhists believed it brought spiritual enlightenment, and Hindus used it during worship.
Sapphires were called hyakinthoi (hyacinths) in the sixth century when they were a popular gem
in Byzantine jewelry.

October- Tourmaline or Opal

Tourmaline-

Color: Multicolors
Meaning: Healing

Tourmaline represents love and friendship, and is said to render them firm and long-lasting

Tourmaline is a semi-precious stone with the greatest range of colors found in nature. Bi-color
and multi-color crystals are common. They can be pink at one end and green at the other; this
type is called watermelon tourmaline. Along with the colors comes a range of prices. Because no
two tourmalines look alike, they were mistaken for other gems until the 1800’s when they were
reclassified as a distinct mineral species. Before that tourmalines had been confused for
sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and other gems. It is now believed that the rubies in both the Russian
& British Crown Jewels are now believed to be red tourmalines, also known as rubellite. The
name comes from the word ‘thoramalli’ which is applied to a group of gemstones found in the
southern parts of the Indian Subcontinent. Gem and specimen tourmaline are mined chiefly in
Brazil and Africa, gemstones come from Sri Lanka and India, but they are also found in several
other place around the world. Tourmaline is renowned for its three-sided prisms; no other
common mineral has three sides.

It is also a present for the 8th wedding anniversary.

Opal-

Color: From Milky White to Dark Black

Meaning: Desire

Opal imparts hope and harmony

Opals, like tourmalines, can come in a variety of colors. The difference is that opal diffracts light
and can display all the colors of the rainbow simultaneously. This is because of their unique
make-up of light-bending microscopic silica spheres. There are two broad classes of opal:
precious and common. Precious opal displays play-of-color, common opal does not. Opal
gemstones are truly unique because each individual gem is adorned with a one-of-a-kind color
combination of colors. Black opal is considered the rarest and white, grey and green the most
common. Most opals are cut into cabochons. An opal’s value ranges from very little to thousands
of dollars. The word opal comes from the Greek ‘opallios,’ meaning ‘to see a change of color.’
Australia was originally the world’s producer of opals, but recently data suggests that that now
Ethiopia is. Opals have been considered great luck throughout history, because it was thought to
possess the value of all gemstones in the opal color spectrum.

It is also a present for the 14th wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Opal

What’s in a Name: The name opal originates from the Greek word opallios, which meant to see
a change in color.
Some Places Where It’s Found: Australia, Brazil, Honduras, Ethiopia, and Czech Republic

True Colors: Microscopic silica spheres that diffract light to display various colors of the
rainbow create a kaleidoscope of one-of-a-kind color combination, also called Precious Opals.

Photo Andrea Fohrman/Moda Operandi

Today’s Treasure: Andrea Fohrman Kat Australian Opal, Diamond and Gold Earrings

The Spiritual: As a stone of light, opal is believed to be the ideal gem to attract positive
energies and center the mind for prayer and meditation.

The Physical: A supportive stone, dedicated to healing and emotionally strengthening, it’s
thought to have properties to purify the blood, stimulate memory and balance hormones.

The Historical: According to Arabic legend, opals fell from the sky in bolts of lightning. It
became associated with bad luck after a character wearing the gem in a popular novel by Sir
Walter Scott ran into some trouble.
Blue green tourmaline and gold 19th century ring. Photo © Victoria and Albert Museum,
London

October Birthstone: Tourmaline

What’s in a Name: The name tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese words tura mali, which
mean stone of mixed colors.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar,
Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States

True Colors: Tourmalines come in a vast array of colors ranging from black to bicolor pink and
green, gems aptly named watermelon tourmaline. The most well-known tourmalines are
probably the green variety.

Photo Cathy Waterman/Barneys

Today’s Treasure: Cathy Waterman green tourmaline, diamond and platinum Wheat-Stem
pendant necklace

The Spiritual: Tourmaline is believed to imbue a positive attitude, good luck and happiness.

The Physical: The stone is thought to aid in cleaning the organs, as it aids the metabolism and in
hormone production.
The Historical: Tourmaline has been treasured in China for centuries as part of their rituals and
ceremonies. Ancient magicians used black tourmaline as a form of protection against negative
energy and evil forces.

November- Topaz or Citrine

Topaz-

Color: Yellow, Blue, Pink, Peach, Gold, Green, Red & Brown

Meaning: Joy

Topaz balances emotions, calms passions, releases tension & gives feelings of joy
Topaz is a hard stone that comes in a variety of colors. Because of this it has wide use in jewelry
and gemstone carvings. Topaz in its natural state is golden brown to yellow, which sometimes
means it gets confused with citrine, the less valuable gemstone. A variety of impurities and
treatments may make topaz deep red, pale gray, reddish-orange, pale green, or pink, which is the
most rare. They also range from opaque to translucent/transparent. The most sought after topaz is
the Imperial topaz. It can be yellow, pink (rare, if natural) or pink-orange. These can be found in
Brazil, but topaz are mined all over the world. Topaz has a relatively low refraction index for a
gemstone, and so stones with large facets or tables do not sparkle as well as stones cut from
higher refractive minerals. The ancient Romans believed that topaz provided protection from
danger while traveling. And in Europe in the Middle Ages, topaz was believed to enhance mental
powers.

It is also a present for the 23rd wedding anniversary.

Citrine-

Color: Pale Yellow to Golden Orange

Meaning: Happiness & Success

Citrine is believed to bring long life, fidelity and represents optimism & joy

Citrine is part of the quartz family and it is the rarest variety in its natural form. It has become
the second most popular quartz, after amethyst, in jewelry. This popularity was due to the lack of
affordable gold gems on the market. Citrine comes in a variety of shades from very light yellow
to burnt orange color. Some of the most sought-after Citrine gemstones have a clear, radiant
yellowish to brownish-red color. The most desired Citrine is the Madeira citrine, a deep burnt
orange color rich and full beauty. Brazil is the leading producer of this gem. Citrine is derived
from the Latin word ‘citrina’ which means ‘yellow’ and is also the origin of the word ‘citron’.
Citrine has also been known as the ‘merchant’s stone’ because it is said to attract prosperity and
wealth. This bright shining gem has said to be a gift from the sun. It was once thought that the
wearer would become invisible when danger was near.

It is also a present for the 13th wedding anniversary.

Birthstone: Topaz

What’s in a Name: The name topaz derives from Topazios, the ancient Greek name for St.
John’s Island in the Red Sea.

Some Places Where it’s Found: Brazil, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Russia, Nigeria, Germany,
and the United States

True Colors: Pure topaz is colorless. Impurities tint the stone to a variety of colors like blue,
pink, yellow and brown. The most desirable type is the rich orange of Imperial Topaz.
Photo Nina Runsdorf/Moda Operandi

Today’s Treasure: Nina Runsdorf Large Blue Topaz and 18K White Gold Flip Ring

The Spiritual: Topaz is believed to strengthen faith and trust.

The Physical: Yellow topaz is believed to be an anti depressant and improving brain function.
Blue topaz are considered a soothing stone that clears the mind.

The Historical: To the ancient Egyptians, topaz symbolized Ra, the sun god. Greeks and
Romans prized it for its ability to provide strength and prevent injury. The Hindus believed topaz
would protect their homes from fire, and when worn above the heart, would assure long life,
beauty and intelligence.
Citrine and gold brooch made in the mid-19th century. Photo © Victoria and Albert Museum,
London

November Birthstone: Citrine

What’s in a Name: The name comes from the French word citron, meaning lemon.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Africa, Brazil, France, Madagascar, South Africa and the
United States

True Colors: A variety of quartz, citrine ranges in colors from the most common yellow to red-
brown.

Photo Brent Neale/Moda Operandi

Today’s treasure: Brent Neale citrine and gold ring

The Spiritual: Believed to be powerful cleanser and regenerator, the gem supposedly inspires
self-improvement.

The Physical: Citrine is thought to provide a boost to the circulatory system.

The Historical: Citrines can be found in jewels dating back to ancient Greece. It was a very
popular gem in jewels from the 19th century through the 1940s.

December- Turquoise, Blue Zircon or Tanzanite

Turquoise-

Color: Sky Blue- Shades of Green

Meaning: Friendship

Turquoise is said to bring good health, fortune and peace

Turquoise is a very unique gem because it is never transparent and it is usually cut into
cabochons. They are most commonly found in powder blue, sky blue, blue-green and with or
without matrix (black veins). Although they can be found in white and even yellowish green.
Turquoise have been highly valued for thousands of years by many cultures and it can be very
costly. They were ones of the first stones to be mined and now many sites have been depleted.
Navajo people believed turquoise stones were pieces of the sky that had fallen to Earth. It was
introduced to the French by Venetian traders who had purchased the stones in modern day Iran
(then a part of Turkey). Turquoise was widely traded because deposits are so rare. The only
major turquoise deposits currently known are found in Iran, Egypt, Southwestern United States,
and China. Turquoise also has the unique distinction of having a color named after it and not
vice-versa. Turquoise is also supposed to brings good fortune, good luck, and a happy life.

It is also a present for the 11th wedding anniversary.

Blue Zircon-

Color: Blue, Vivid Blue, Pastel Blue, Sky Blue & Bright Blue

Meaning: Purity

Blue Zircon is said to bring wisdom, honor and riches

The natural color of zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, blue and green.
Blue zircon is the most popular color and as a blue stone it has a very high refractive index;
making it very sparkly. It also has outstanding brilliance, and very strong fire. The blue color is
produced by heating brown zircon. But not all brown zircon will turn blue when heated; only
some zircon has the right physical structure for this to occur. Most blue zircon comes from
sources in Cambodia & Myanmar. Although it’s a reasonably hard gem, Mohs hardness of 7-7.5,
it is somewhat brittle and can be sensitive to bumps and pressure. Blue zircon has the tendency to
wear along facet edges. In the middle ages, zircon was believed to help the wearer sleep, and to
bring prosperity, honor and wisdom.

Tanzanite-

Color: Sapphire Blue, Violet & Burgundy

Meaning: Truth & Wisdom

Tanzanite is known for knowledge and connecting one with the spiritual world

Tanzanite is only found in Tanzania, East Africa, in a very small mining area of about 2 miles
wide- meaning it is relativity rare and costly. Its color can appear slightly different when viewed
under different lighting conditions. Blues appear more evident when exposed to fluorescent light
and violet hues can be seen readily when viewed under incandescent light. In its rough state
tanzanite is colored a reddish brown to clear, and it requires heat treatment to remove the
brownish ‘veil’ and bring out the blue violet of the stone. The gemstone was given the name
‘tanzanite’ by Tiffany & Co. because they thought its scientific name wasn’t consumer friendly
enough. It was introduced to market in 1968. In 2002, the American Gem Trade
Association chose tanzanite as a December birthstone, the first change to their birthstone list
since 1912. It is said to be particularly helpful in uniting the mind and heart, teaching one to live
from a compassionate heart with an illumined mind.

It is also a present for the 24th wedding anniversary.

Month: December

Birthstone: Turquoise

What’s in a Name: The word turquoise comes from the French tourques for Turkish stone.
Traders from Turkey introduced the Persian blue stone to Europe via the Silk Road in the 13th
century.

Some Places Where It’s Found: Iran and the United States

True Colors: Turquoise ranges in color from powdery blue to greenish robin’s egg blue.

Photo Stephen Dweck

Today’s Treasure: Stephen Dweck Natural Turquoise and White Moonstone Fan Necklace

The Spiritual: Turquoise is believed to heal and cleanse the body. It is thought to aid in
understanding, enhance trust, kindness, and the recognition of beauty.

The Physical: Turquoise is a strengthening stone, good for exhaustion, depression or panic
attacks.

The Historical: Cultures around the world have admired the distinct color of turquoise since
ancient times. Egyptians treasured its protective power and set it in necklaces, Persians set the
stone into their daggers and war necklace and Native Americans used it in sacred ceremonies.
Tiffany Soleste Tanzanite, diamond and platinum ring. Photo Tiffany

Birthstone: Tanzanite

What’s in a Name: The name for tanzanite comes from Tanzania, the place where it was
discovered in 1967.

Where It’s Found: Tanzania in East Africa is the only place the gem has ever been found.

True Colors: It’s unique intense violet-blue is often achieved by heat treating to remove any
natural impurities.

The Spiritual: The gemstone is believed to open up an awareness between how one lives and
one could live more consciously. It is thought to help people recognize their strengths.

The Physical: Tanzanite is thought to inspire creativity.

The Historical: In Tanzania, it is customary for women to wear tanzanite beads while giving
birth to ensure a healthy baby. Tiffany popularized the gem after using it in jewelry