Birthstones

June 3rd, 2009

We had a little discussion about birthstones on Babyccino a while ago.  It seems that the tradition of birthstones is much more commonly known of in the USA than in Europe.  Of course it got me all curious and I did a little research…

In the Old Testament, detailed instructions can be found for the fabrication of a breastplate for the high priest.  This ‘breastplate of Aaron’ is where the tradition of birthstones arose from.  Twelve gemstones are described, to be laid out in a plate and to be set in gold, each of them representing one of the twelve sons of Aaron, being the commanders of the twelve tribes of Israel.  They were said to be able to communicate directly to God through those gemstones!
The stones also corresponded with the twelve signs of the zodiac and the twelve months of the year – hence the tradition of the birth stones.

My son was born in February, and therefore his birthstone is Amethyst.  Amethyst is said to protect its wearer against seduction; drunkenness, in particular.  Always a good thing.  It is also said to stimulate dreams.  Not sure about that…

My daughter was born in May; her birthstone is Emerald.  Emerald is green – the colour of harmony, love of nature and elemental joie de vivre.  It is said to be a healing stone.  Also, emeralds are notorious for their flaws.  (Which we tolerate, of course, because as we know – only the imperfect can ever be perfect…)

Lovely birthstone necklaces can be found at Prismera Design.  I really like the fact that the ‘chains’ are bigger than usual and also the birthstones are lovely.  The only ‘problem’ I have is — maybe three stones would look better??

xxx Esther

PS  Prismera Design kindly offers a 10% discount to all Babyccino readers. Just use code BABYCCINO10.

Entry Filed under: Beauty, Fashion, For Ourselves