Birthstones

January	Garnet	Garnets are named after pomegranates due to its resemblance to the rich red colour of the fruit. Believed to keep the wearer safe from harm, the gift of a garnet symbolises love and the desire for a loved one’s safe travel.
February	Amethyst	Amethyst is derived from the Greek word, amethystos meaning “not drunken”, appropriately named as it was treasured by the ancient Greeks who wore them as a lucky charm to ward off the intoxicating powers of Dionysus, the Greek God of Wine. These days the gift of an amethyst symbolises protection, security and peace of mind.
March	Aquamarine	Aquamarine is derived from the Roman word for seawater (Aqua meaning water and Mare meaning sea) due to its greenish-blue seawater colour. Legends say that it is the treasure of mermaids, with the power to keep sailors safe at sea and the gift of aquamarine is a symbol of beauty, honesty and loyalty.
April	Diamond	Diamonds, the hardest known natural material on earth, are named after the Greek word ‘adamas’ meaning indestructible or unconquerable. They are the most popular gemstone in the world and are considered the ultimate symbol of love.
May	Emerald	The name Emerald is derived from the Greek word ‘smaragdos’, via the French word ‘esmeralde’, meaning green gemstone. In ancient Rome the vivid colour of the emerald was the colour of Venus, the goddess of beauty and love. Hence today, emeralds symbolise both beauty and love.
June	Pearl	Treasured for many years for their beauty and elegance, pearls, whether saltwater, freshwater or cultured, are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes and colours. In ancient mythology pearls were associated with the moon and were symbols of love, purity and perfection which is why today pearls are a popular gift for brides for their wedding day.
July	Ruby	Rubies, due to their rarity, are a highly sought after gemstone. Legend has it that the red glow of a ruby comes from their internal flame that cannot be extinguished. As a result the gift of a ruby symbolises an everlasting love.
August	Peridot	Peridots are a beautiful yellow-green coloured gemstone which legend has it are the teardrops of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes as they are generally formed in volcanic rocks. Peridots signify strength and are said to protect against evil spirits.
September	Sapphire	Sapphires, the second hardest substance on earth next to diamonds, and are found in a variety of colours from dark blues through to pinks and yellows, although blue sapphires are still the most popular. Sapphires symbolise sincerity and faithfulness and therefore are an excellent choice for an engagement ring as an alternative to the traditional diamond.
October	Opal	The word opal is derived from the Greek word ‘opallius’ meaning ‘to see a change of colour’ due to their continually changing play of colours when viewed at different angles. For many years people believed opals possessed healing powers and as a result today opals are considered the symbol of hope.
November	Topaz	Topaz comes in a variety of colours although yellow is the most popular variety. Legend has it that wearing topaz strengthens the mind and protects the wearer from sudden death, but today the topaz has come to symbolise affection and success in all endeavours.
December	Turquoise	Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history and for centuries it has been revered by many great cultures such as the Aztecs and Egyptians. It is believed that the gift of turquoise brings about good fortune and happiness to the wearer due to its resemblance in colour to the beautiful blue skies.

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