The Folklore of Bloodstone
This ancient gemstone was used by the Babylonians to make seals and amulets. Bloodstone was believed to have healing powers, especially for blood disorders. It is sometimes called the “martyr’s stone,” as legend tells that it was created when drops of Christ’s blood stained jasper at the foot of the cross. Many other ancient cultures […]
The Folklore of Aquamarine
Aquamarine is made of two Latin words: aqua, meaning “water,” and marine, meaning “of the sea.” It was once believed that this gemstone would protect sailors and guarantee a safe voyage. Legend has it that aquamarine’s serene blue color would invoke calming properties of the sea, helping to cool tempers and allow the wearer to […]
Folklore of Zircon – the Oldest Mineral on Earth
Zircon is the oldest mineral on Earth. Due to its chemical makeup, it has survived ages of geological events, such as erosion and pressure shifts, recording these changes like a time capsule. You can find zircon in a variety of colors, including blue, brown, red, orange, yellow, and green. Sometimes the gems are heat treated […]
Turquoise Folklore and History
The Turquoise gemstone has a rich history throughout millennia and across a variety of cultures. The earliest uses were beads found in Iraq, dating back to 5000 BCE. Turquoise gemstones were found in jewelry in Egyptian tombs, dating back to 3000 BCE. It was even used in King Tut’s burial mask. Native Americans have mined […]
The Folklore of Garnet
Garnet is a fitting way to start the New Year. Not only because it’s January’s birthstone, but also because according to legend, it has the power to give those who wear it eternal happiness, health, and wealth. Its perceived healing properties are vast. Legend has it that garnet can bring peace, prosperity, and good health […]
The Folklore of Amethyst
Amethyst has been used for centuries by a variety of cultures. Some of the oldest amethyst jewelry dates back to as early as 2000 BC. Legends and myths abound. In Greek, amethyst means “not drunken.” Ancient Greeks and Romans believed this gemstone could ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus and keep the wearer clear-headed […]
The Folklore of Tanzanite
Tanzanite gets its name from the only location it can be found: Tanzania in Africa. Legend has it that this rare, deep blue stone—which is one of three birthstones for December—could develop intuition and deepen psychic abilities. It was considered a stone of transformation. Legend has it that tanzanite could strengthen the immune system; regenerate […]
Make the Season Bright With Tanzanite
Sleighbells ring, are you listening? December’s birthstone, pretty and glistening A beautiful sight Blue tanzanite Sparkling in a winter wonderland Tanzanite is the primary birthstone for December, along with zircon and turquoise. Found only in Tanzania, it is also the gemstone for a 24th wedding anniversary. If you’ve made it to 24 years of marriage, […]
Color Comes Into Play with October’s Birthstones
When it comes to color, October birthstones give you some amazing choices. Whether you choose opal or tourmaline, you’ll get a display of exciting and intense colors, making them popular choices for jewelry designers and collectors. Opal The name “opal” derives from the Greek opallos, meaning “to see a change (of color).” They range in […]
Corundum of Many Colors: Sapphire
As we turn our calendars to September, we start thinking of things like heading back to school, sipping on a pumpkin spice latte, and planning our fall fashions. For those celebrating a birthday in September, they’re thinking of their birthstone: sapphire! Although sapphire typically refers to the rich blue gemstone variety of the mineral corundum, […]