Traditionally, a gemstone is associated with each month of the year.
This concept of birthstone gems is believed to date back to the Bible and the Breastplate of Aaron.There were 12 stones representing the 12 tribes of Israel, symbolizing the 12 months of the year and the 12 signs of the zodiac.
There are other origins of birthstones, most notably of Tibetan origin and is over 1,000 years is the Mythical Birthstone List. Also, the Ayurvedic Birthstone List which relates to Ayurvedic Indian medicine is over 1500 years old.
There are many myths and legends that surround birthstones. Some cultures tended to wear the stone in which their birth month was in and other cultures owned a set of 12 birthstones. One set would cover each month of the year and people would wear their birthstones according to the date, regardless of their own date of birth. The thought was it heighten the healing powers if worn in the month of the birthstone.
MAY
If you're born in the month of May your birthstone is Emerald. Historically, the emerald has been one of the most valuable gems, even more prized than diamonds. It was claimed that emeralds exert a soothing influence, so much so that the Roman emperor Nero was said to have watched the notoriously tense gladiator fights through a giant transparent emerald. An alternative birthstone for May is Agate. A much less expensive alternative to the Emerald
Emerald
If you are lucky enough to be born in April, your birthstone is the beautiful and rich green Emerald. Throughout time, the stone has been known as a symbol of truth and love. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was said to be the gemstone of the goddess Venus, purveyor of love and hope. The Emerald is also known as a stone of intuition, associated with sight and the revelation of future events and truths.
Emerald is thought to strengthen your connection to the divine energies by opening your heart and mind. It represents unconditional compassion, love, and acceptance in every form. It is believed that an Emerald can lift depression and cure insomnia.
Agate
An alternative to Emerald is Agate with many variations and color options. Agate is believed to transform negative energy into positive energy. It is thought to enhance mental function, improve concentration, enhance perception and analytical abilities. It is a soothing and calming gemstone that heals inner anger, anxiety and helps in the strengthening of relationships. Agate instills security and safety.
