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January, February and March
January's birthstone is garnet, February's birthstone is amethyst and March's birthstone is aquamarine. Garnet, which derives its name from the Latin word for seed and its similarities to the pomegranate seed, is a deep red color. Garnets are thought to represent loyalty and devotion and also provide safety for travelers. Amethyst is purple and derives its name from the Greek word "Amethystos," which means sober. The ancient Greeks believed amethyst protected wearers from the effects of alcohol. The gem is also a symbol of faith and spirituality, sometimes worn by members of the clergy. The aquamarine birthstone is pale blue like the sea and symbolizes hope, happiness and courage. Ancient sailors in Rome used the aquamarine gem to ward off dangers from the sea, and to cure sicknesses.
April, May and June
Diamonds are the birthstones for April, emeralds are the birthstones for May and pearls are the birthstones for June. Diamonds, the hardest known substance on Earth, come in a variety of cuts, carats and colors. Their characteristics are love and endurance. Emeralds are green gems that are said to represent love, faith and patience. Some religions also believe that the green color of an emerald symbolizes rebirth and regeneration as it does it nature. Pearls are usually white, but also come in pink, black and silver, and are often pieced together as a necklace or bracelet. The main characteristic associated with a pearl is purity.
July, August and September
July's birthstone is the ruby, which has a dark red color that represents passion and fire. The birthstone of August is peridot, which has a light green color similar to an emerald. Ancient Egyptians ascribed peridot with the power to keep bad spirits away, but its main characteristic is strength. Sapphires, the birthstone of September, have a deep blue coloring. In Biblical times, sapphires were prized by monarchs and priests, and some Christians believe the Ten Commandments were written on sapphire tablets. The gem is reputed to provide wisdom, good health and peace.
October, November and December
Opals are the birthstone of October and come in a variety of colors, including black, which are rare, orange, red, white and light blue. Opals are associated with faithfulness, confidence and loyalty. Topaz, which is November's birthstone, is most often a yellow color with a tint of orange. This gem represents love, affection and loyalty. December's birthstone is turquoise, a blue and green-colored gem that symbolizes prosperity, good luck and success.