May Birthstone: EMERALD

A stone of true mystic beauty, the emerald is one of the most coveted gems ever. I almost do not know a woman who doesn't simply adore the rich green of this magnificent mineral.



Handmade sterling silver and emerald earrings

 Emerald is one of the earliest minerals known to man. The name emerald is thought to be of the Ancient Greek word smaragdos meaning green stone.

It has been assigned a very large number of properties over the last 6000 years. Some beliefs are that emerald is a symbol of immortality, and that wearing emerald jewelry is good for the eyes and eyesight, that it prevents epilepsy, promotes cleverness, courage, eloquence, honesty, prosperity and much more. In general it can be said that emerald is believed to protect against illnesses, physical danger and evil and that it can improve your mind and character.


A tall order, but whether all of that is true or not, the fact remains that true emeralds are stunning in their beauty, so don't be surprised if you find yourself gazing at one for significant stretches of time. Ideally it should be at the mirror reflection of yourself wearing one!

Single chunk of emerald on a sterling silver hoop

The astrological signs of emerald are Taurus, Gemini and Aries.

Light coming through genuine emerald beads on multi-strand pearl bracelet

March Birthstone: AQUAMARINE, Promise of a Seaside Vacation

When you look at these gentle, dreamy stones, you can't help yourself but drift away to that summer beach day. March is the time when we really just want winter to go away finally. We look forward to spring, not so much for the blossoms that start to wake, but for the promise it brings of the summer that follows.

Silver Earrings with Aquamarine Drops at www.anakit.etsy.com

Aquamarine (from Latin: aqua marina, "water of the sea") is a pale blue variety of beryl (same gemstone family as emeralds). Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. As beryl, aquamarine is mentioned in the Bible. Aquamarine jewelry is associated with beauty, honesty, loyalty, and happiness.


A gift of Aquamarine symbolizes both safety and security, especially within long standing relationships. Some people even say that the aquamarine reawakens love and brings back the spark in a relationship.

Sea Foam, Genuine Aquamarine Pendant at www.anakit.etsy.com

This pale blue gem does indeed resemble the color of seawater. The ancient Romans believed that the stone was sacred to Neptune, the god of the sea, having fallen from the jewel boxes of sirens and washed onto shore. Early sailors wore aquamarine talismans, engraved with the likeness of Neptune, as protection against dangers at sea.

Water in which this gemstone had been submerged was used in ancient times to heal a variety of illnesses of the heart, liver, stomach, mouth and throat. Aquamarines were also used to reverse poisoning and to aid in fortune telling.