I never understood the concept of birthstones. How were they assigned and what exactly are the benefits of birthstones? So when ShopNBC.com approached us to take a look at their vast birthstone jewelry collection, I decided to do a little research. Most gem scholars agree that the tradition of birthstones arose from the Breastplate of Aaron: a ceremonial religious garment set with twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel and also corresponded with the twelve signs of the zodiac and the twelve months of the year. Birthstone jewellery is supposed to enhance the personality and traits of the wearer. So what are the traits? There’s a poem published in a Tiffany’s pamphlet in 1870 that describes the characteristics of each month’s baby which makes for a rather interesting read, although three of the verses are the same. Signs of a lazy poet indeed! (Scroll to the very end of the post for the poem)

Taking a look at ShopNBC.com’s offers, I was amazed by the variety on offer. And I do mean a vast variety with 913 items to be found. Of course, not each item has all 12 birthstones as options but there’s certainly something for everyone. Being the type of girl who prefers funkier pieces, I fell in love with the Gemstone Stingray Cuff Bracelet which coincidentally comes in my birthstone, ruby. Of course, even if it doesn’t I’m sure I’ll find an excuse to lust after it anyway. After all, birthstones are just another excuse for us to shop for jewellery isn’t it?

By her who in January was born
No gem save garnets shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

The February born shall find
Sincerity and peace of mind,
Freedom from passion and from care,
If they, the amethyst will wear.

By her who in March was born
No gem save bloodstone shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

She who from April dates her years,
diamonds shall wear,
lest bitter tears
For vain repentance flow.

Who first beholds the light of day
In spring's sweet, flower month of May
And wears an emerald all her life
Shall be a loved and a loving wife.

By her who in June was born
No gem save pearls shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.

The gleaming ruby should adorn,
All those who in July are born,
For thus they'll be exempt and free,
From lover's doubts and anxiety.

Wear a peridot for thee,
No conjugal fidelity,
The August born without this stone,
`Tis said, must live unloved; alone.

A maiden born when autumn leaves
Are rustling in September's breeze,
A sapphire on her brow should bind;
To bring her joy and peace of mind.

October's child is born for woe,
And life's vicissitudes must know,
But lay an opal on her breast,
And hope will lull those woes to rest.

Who first comes to this world below
In dreary November's fog and snow,
Should prize the topaz amber hue,
Emblem of friends and lovers true.

If cold December gave you birth
The month of snow and ice and mirth
Place on your hand a turquoise blue;
Success will bless whate'er you do.