About Birthstones
Your Birthstone
Tradition associates a gem with each sign of the zodiac based on a colour system. Colour was thought to unleash a power attributed to the stone. In time, birthstones became associated with calendar months rather than the zodiac, and people began to select birthstones in colours other than the originals.
To find out more about your birthstone, or any gemstone, call in to Fraser Hart where our friendly staff will help you choose the right stone for you. A rough diamond so resembles a pebble. It is the skill of the craftsman that unlocks the fiery beauty that lies within. The beauty of the diamond depends on the way it reflects and refracts light. The polisher must facet the stone, allowing the light to emerge from the top.
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January - Garnet
Garnets are a brilliant Bohemian dark red colour, and according to traditional folklore gave the wearer guidance during the night. They are found in the U.S, Africa and Sri Lanka. -
February - Amethyst
This beautiful stone can be found in a remarkable purple colour. It symbolises peace, protection and tranquillity. They are found in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia. -
March - Aquamarine
This stone is a pastel sea-blue colour. It is a symbol of youth, hope and health. They may be found in Brazil, Nigeria, Zambia and Madagascar. -
April - Diamond
Comes from the Greek word "Adamas", meaning unconquerable. This stone was discovered in India about 2500 years ago where the inhabitants called them splinters from the stars. -
May - Emerald
The name comes from the Greek word "Smaragdos" meaning green stone. According to legend, Emeralds help the wearer predict the future. -
June - Pearl
Cultured pearls have been recognised as the emblem of modesty, chastity and purity. Moonstone is also sometimes used as an alternative as it physically resembles some pearls. -
July - Ruby
Ruby is a vivid, fiery red. The finest rubies come from Burma. Large quantities are also found in Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania and India. -
August - Peridot
This stone is formed from volcanic action and should be a lime green colour. They are found in Hawaii, Burma and China. -
September - Sapphire
The Sapphire is a rich deep blue, and because of its durability combined with its beauty, this stone is a perfect alternative for engagement rings. This stone is commonly found in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, China and the U.S. -
October - Opal
Described as "made up of the glories of the most precious gems. the gentler fire of the ruby, the rich purple of the amethyst, the sea-green of the emerald, glittering together." Found in Australia, Mexico and the U.S. -
November - Topaz
Topaz is highly valued as a gem and may be colourless, yellow, green, blue, or red. The finest stones come from Sri Lanka and parts of India, Russia and Brazil. The most popular coloured topaz is a rich orange-yellow colour. -
December - Turquoise
The colours of this spectacular stone range from sky blue to blue-green. The name means "Turkish Stone" because the trade route that brought it to Europe used to come via Turkey. Turquoise is found in Northeast Iran.