May birthstone, the emerald is a symbol of renewal and fertility–apropos for the time of year when the world is once again in bloom. Derived from the word smaragdus, which is Greek for “green,” the emerald has been mined in Egypt since 330 B.C. When Queen Cleopatra, the last Pharaoh of Egypt, was crowned, she […]
Rare Tiffany & Co., Schlumberger diamond leaf-shaped brooch, American, c. 1960″s. Samuel Saidian & Sons. Derived from the Greek word “adamas” meaning “invincible,” April’s birthstone, the diamond, is thought to be the hardest substance on earth, making it a natural fit for the gemstone that best symbolizes enduring love. Mario Buccellati eternity band, 18K gold […]
Derived from the Roman word “aqua,” meaning “water” and “mare,” meaning “sea,” the serene March birthstone, aquamarine, certainly does recall the clear blue of the ocean. The ancient Romans believed that aquamarine was sacred to Neptune, the God of the Sea, having fallen from the jewel caskets of his sirens and washed ashore. Early sailors […]
Due to its brilliant hue of purple, the longstanding color of power, the amethyst has been associated with royalty since its early history. A very old gemstone, the amethyst was used as a decorative stone by prehistoric humans 25,000 years ago, on the tombs of early Egyptian pharaohs, and on English regalia in the Middle […]
The perfect stone for embarking on a new year, garnet, the January birthstone, has long been associated with journeys. Derived from the Latin word “granatus,” which is related to the word “pomegranate,” garnet was named thus due to its resemblance to the deep red, seed-like fruit when in its natural form. In Greek mythology, it […]
Pin, fashioned as a floral spray, multi-colored sapphires and 18KT gold, American, circa 1980; Clifford Baron Gallery. September’s birthstone, the sapphire has long represented purity of the soul. In the Middle Ages, the clergy wore sapphires to symobolize heaven and to protect against temptations, and commoners believed it to attract heavenly blessings. Among its roots, […]
18K gold ring with a large central ruby, surrounded by sapphires, diamonds, and emeralds, American, circa 1940-50. Hoffman-Gampetro gallery. Dorothy didn’t know it but when she first put on her ruby-encrusted slippers in The Wizard of Oz, the magic of the land passed to her. There have been many interpretations of the meaning behind Dorothy’s […]