The idea that birthstones possess a certain indefinable, but nevertheless real significance has long been present and still holds a spell over the minds of all who are gifted with a touch of imagination and romance. Birthstones are sacred and pure and to own and wear something, which is sacrosanct, is what makes them popular. In the 8th and 9th centuries, the interpreters of Revelation began to ascribe to each of these stone attributes of the twelve apostles. The origin of the belief that a special stone was dedicated to each month, and that the stone of the month possessed a special virtue that it could transmit to those born in that month, goes back to at least the 1st century. There is no doubt that the owner of a ring or ornament set with a birthstone is impressed with the idea of possessing something more intimately associated with his or her personality than any other stone, however beautiful or costly. Birthstones have been a part of various cultures' belief systems for centuries and its roots can be traced to the religious traditions of Judaism, Hinduism, and Christianity. To know more go through the article given below.
Interesting & Amazing Information On Origin & Background Of Birthstones
The earliest mention of gemstones occurs in the Bible. It is believed that Aaron, the brother of Moses wore a breast ornament decorated with 12 gems, to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. The 12 gems can also signify the twelve months of the year in some cultures. As for birthstones, there are seven stones that represent the seven days of the week. The seven birthstones are Pearl for Monday, Garnet for Tuesday, Cymophane or Cat’s-eye Chrysoberyl for Wednesday, Emerald for Thursday, Topaz for Friday, Sapphire for Saturday, and Ruby for Sunday. Similarly, the months of the year also have twelve birthstones but they vary among different cultures.
King Solomon, it is believed, wore a huge garnet in his breastplate to help him gain victory in battles. Garnet was also once worn to ward off evil spirits and repel insects. The Egyptians used this birthstone to accompany the tombs as a payment to the gods for the safe passage to the other worlds.
The emerald was mined by the Egyptians near the Red sea. The stone was highly prized by the wealthy and was also used in religious ceremonies. The ancient also believed that looking at an emerald would guarantee a safe passage through the land of the dead. It is also thought to have a calming and soothing effect. In Europe, the emerald came to be more common after the conquest of South America by the Spaniards in the 16th century. With the capture of the birthstone mines, the gems were shipped back to Spain. These were then transported to India and Philippines and later to China.
Some birthstones like the topaz are thought to make the wearer invisible through certain rituals. That’s why these stones were widely used in tantric rituals and religious ceremonies. In China and India, it is widely believed that dreaming of birthstones, especially ruby brings in success in business, money, and love. The birthstone also enhances the love by tuning the psyches to one another, and also by banishing envy and jealousy.
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