Birthstones
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A Jewish Priest wearing the breastplate
of Aaron (Exodus 28:15-30)
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While the popular custom of wearing birthstones
originated in Poland around the 15th century, birthstones first become
part of Western culture through the Breastplate of Aaron (Exodus
28:15-30). The Breastplate of Aaron was a religious garment used for
ceremonial purposes by Jewish priests. It featured 12 gemstones
representing the 12 tribes of Israel, which also corresponded with the
12 signs of the zodiac and the 12 months of the year.
As it can be pretty hard to tell the difference between gems of the same
colour without the benefits of scientific gemmology, gemstones were not
always classified by mineral species. As many gems were once confusingly
known by the same name based on their colour, there is some debate about
which gemstones were actually set in the breastplate. This has seen
different birthstone lists emerge, depending on where and when they were
compiled.
The first 'official' birthstone list was issued in 1912 by the Jewellers
of America (formerly the American National Association of Jewellers).
Included below are the birthstones established in 1952 by the Jewellery
Industry Council that was revised by the AGTA (American Gem Trade
Association) in 2002. While you can choose a birthstone based on a
birthday, anniversary or any other significant date, did you know that
birthstones were once worn each month by everyone? In the Middle Ages it
was believed that the powers of each gemstone were heightened during its
month. This is great news for gem connoisseurs, as it gives us a good
excuse to collect the full set, wearing them throughout the year!
