Birthstone Facts & Fiction

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Here are some interesting facts on the history of gemstones. 

How It All Began

The special list of privileged stones that are to receive special recognition as birthstones can be traced back to the early days of the Bible, when a list of stones found on the Breastplate of Aaron was enumerated in the book of Exodus. A Jewish historian known as Josephus discovered the significance of this list, which propelled the entire birthstone belief system.

The book of Exodus in the Bible listed the following stones as found on Aaron’s breastplate – ruby, topaz, beryl, turquoise, sapphire, emerald, Jacintha, agate, amethyst, chrysolite, onyx, and jasper. However, aside from the one in Exodus, the Bible contains another list of birthstones. This time, the birthstones were known as the “foundations of the wall of the city.” This other list is found in the book of the Revelations.

It was only later, in the 15th century, when astrologists started attributing mythical powers to the stones. Soon after, people started wearing birthstone jewelries.

Birthstones: Facts, myths, and legends

Every person has the right to form his or her own belief in the birthstones.

What is fact? The belief that birthstones have healing powers is actually true. After all, the birthstones are all minerals. It is a proven fact that minerals bring positive effects to a person’s health. Thus, it is a fact that the birthstones can impact a person’s health in a positive way.

Legends: Some birthstone legends/beliefs are backed by science. Science tells us that minerals help metabolize and balance our bodily functions, which is why it is possible that contact with mineral can lead to its absorption, and this can help bring about such supposed benefits of birthstones.

What are pure myth? As for the supernatural powers of the birthstones, these were only assigned by astrologers. Belief in these supernatural powers mostly depends on one’s personal belief system. These powers are said to be stronger in the month that a stone is assigned to.