Garnet January Birthstone
The Garnet is associated with fire, passion and blood. The associations of this extremely popular gemstone are numerous:
it is the birthstone of January,
is associated with astrological signs of both Aquarius and Leo,
and is also recommended gift for both 2nd and 6th wedding anniversaries.
Garnet is the name of a family of minerals, which similar crystal structure and related chemical composition. They grew in popularity in the late 18thC and are still widely used today, in either cut or polished cabochon form. Garnets are popularly believed to be red stones, but this is not always the case. Not only are garnets found in a whole variety of red hues, but also in green (though these are rarer).
Turquoise for December
Turquoise is said to have been mined more than 6000 years ago in the Sinai Peninsula and Iran;
In Persian times people would adorn themselves with Turquoise, usually around the neck or the wrist, as it was believed the stone would prevent fatalities. Turquoise more recently been found in Mexico. They were very popular in the late 18th and the 19thC because of their fashionable colour and afford ability.
Colour
Turquoises are famous for their bright, sky blue colour, but they do come in other hues and qualities.
While the best pieces are flawless and uniform in colour, many stones are speckled with dark markings from the surrounding matrix (parent)stone, and these are known as turquoise matrix, As a highly porous substance, turquoise is susceptible to discoloration by acids from the skin and the environment.Sometimes turquoises in antique jewellery have changed from bright blue to a greyish green for this reason.
It has long been thought to be a holy stone bringing the wearer god fortune and a prosperous life; even today Turquoise is thought to clear the mind and cheer people up.
Turquoise often gets given as a gift to the loved ones or dear friend and as it is one of December birthstone, it makes an ideal Christmas present.
Topaz - November Birthstone
TOPAZ - Birthstone
Along with Citrine, Topaz is the birthstone for November. It is also a suggested wedding gift for both 4th and 23rd anniversary. That said, its gorgeous brilliance and crystal clarity makes it a wonderful gift for all occasions.
It is unclear how the gem was first named. What we do know is that the small island in the Red Sea which is today known as Zabargad, was once named Topazios.
Topaz is fantastic gem to use in jewellery, not only for its stunning colours but also because of its durability, reaching 8 on the Mohs scale. It is a pleochroic gemstone, which means that different colours can be seen from different angles as you move the gem in the light.
Celtic Knot
The Celtic knot symbol
It is also referred to as the mystic knot, or the endless knot.
The more esoteric or spiritual meaning of this symbol alludes to beginnings and endings.
In viewing these beautiful knots, we cannot see a beginning or and end, and therefore we are reminded of the timeless nature of our spirit. This translation harkens to our most primal selves as we contemplate the infinite cycles of birth and rebirth in both physical and ethereal realms.
A less spiritual representation is also related to the knots endless nature.
Due to its infinite path, the Celtic knot can represent an uninterrupted life cycle.
Some may use this symbol as a charm of sorts – warding against sickness or setbacks that might interfere with an otherwise calm and stable life. In ancient times, gifts adorned with mystic knots would be given with best wishes of longevity, or luck with new endeavours.
Check out my handcrafted celtic jewelry designs.