Birthstones

The concept of twelve different stones was found shown on a breastplate (excavated from a tomb dating from about 4000 BCE) that was worn by the High Priest of Memphis in Ancient Egypt. Thereafter, the Hebrews adopted the idea, assigning a stone to each of the twelve tribes of Israel, which their High Priest wore in four rows. The tradition evolved, with gems or crystals being assigned to the twelve angels, then the twelve Apostles and finally the twelve months. Birthstones came into fashion in the eighteenth century, and are worn to attract good luck and happiness and, over time, become a repository of positive energies. Therefore, you may wish to have a special ring, necklace or belt buckle containing your birthstone that you can wear for special occasions; the stone will become infused with love and joy and act as a talisman. Birthstones can accumulate health-giving energies, and just holding your special stone can make you feel less stressed.

The table below is a combination of several traditions. I continue to adapt the list over the years as my own research dictates.

ARIES THE RAM 21 March–20 April Diamond Bloodstone	LIBRA THE SCALES 23 September–23 October Opal Lapis lazuli
TAURUS THE BULL 21 April–21 May Emerald Rose quartz	SCORPIO THE SCORPION 24 October–22 November Coral Obsidian or Apache tear
GEMINI THE HEAVENLY TWINS 22 May–21 June White sapphire Citrine	SAGITTARIUS THE ARCHER 23 November–21 December Ruby Turquoise
CANCER THE CRAB 22 June–22 July Pearl Moonstone	CAPRICORN THE GOAT 22 December–20 January Garnet Black onyx
LEO THE LION 23 July–23 August Golden topaz Carnelian	AQUARIUS THE WATER CARRIER 21 January–18 February Amethyst Sugilite
VIRGO THE MAIDEN 24 August–22 September Blue sapphire Moss agate	PISCES THE FISH 19 February–20 March Aquamarine Jade