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What Stories do Birthstones Tell?

What Stories do Birthstones Tell?

At Augustine Jewels we have a selection of birthstones in our collection to accompany each birth month - each possessing a unique meaning and a symbolic significance throughout history. The popularity of birthstones dates back to ancient times when many civilisations believed that gemstones had incredible powers such as luck, health and prosperity. We are delighted to be beginning our new Birthstones Series, where each month we will tell you a short story about the birthstone associated with the month that we are in.

As spring is unveiling its bright colours we are beginning with just the most suited one, the Emerald - the designated gemstone for the month of May.

Renewal + Hope + Love

Courtesy of: May Birthstone Rough Emerald, GIA (Roz & Gene Meiran)


The rich and majestic green tone of the Emerald makes it the perfect birthstone for spring!
From the poetic description of Ireland as “the Emerald Isle” the vibrant green colour of this gemstone has captured many hearts and minds through the ages that tell their own beautiful lores and stories.

The first known emerald mines were in Southern Egypt as early as 330 BC, and served mainly to feed Queen Cleopatra’s love of the gem. The ancient Egyptians believed it represented fertility and rebirth. It was associated with the Greek goddess Venus, who represented love and beauty, and in several cultures from China to Ireland, emerald has long represented good luck. This stone has been the jewel of choice for powerful women throughout the ages.

The emerald today is believed to hold the meaning of rebirth and is said to bring luck, foresight and youth to its owner. It may also provide contentment, and encourage loyalty and sensitivity. And it is said to be known to help with love - as since the ancient times it was often associated as the stone for the “success of love”. Today, this gemstone is given for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries. What is interesting too is that the Emerald has been believed to have some therapeutic properties, such as relieving eye pain and stress, beliefs which science now proves.

The name Emerald is derived from the French "esmeraude” and the Greek root "smaragdos” which means 'green gemstone'. Top quality emeralds are a deep grass green with a slightly bluish cast, but many lesser quality stones are lighter shades of green and can have a more yellowish tone. Some of them have inclusions or intricate patterns, referred to as ‘jardin’, which makes each individual emerald naturally unique. Emeralds, being a member of the Beryl family, are one of the rarest gemstones. They are typically found in Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan and Zambia.

Diamond & Emerald Engagement Ring

 

Design your own unique emerald ring, necklace, a pair of sparkling earrings or whatever it may be and make your own history with a treasured jewellery piece. Find out more about our bespoke process and get in touch to book a complimentary bespoke consultation with our designer Alexandra, to discuss designing your perfect piece.

Or get your emerald fix from our ready-to-wear jewellery collections - these delicate stud earrings with a touch of modern glamour showcase a simple but uniquely beautiful spiral design that hugs a natural emerald.

Yellow Gold Spiral Emerald Earrings, £245, Portofino Collection

 

The Birthstone Collection's range of birthstone egg pendants in silver and yellow gold make perfect gifts. Each pendant encases a gemstone to represent the wearer's month of birth.



Silver Egg Birthstone Pendant with Emerald Gemstone, £490, Birthstone Collection
egg pendants collection birthstone

 

Discover your birthstone with the birthstone pendants from our Birthstone Collection, available in yellow gold and silver.

Take a look at our Birthstone Guide listing all of the respective gemstones for every month, some months have more than one assigned gemstone. Have a look and find yours below...

Birthstone Guide


We have a variety of gemstones and handmade ready-to-wear jewellery - rings, earrings, necklaces
and many more - waiting for you. Explore our bespoke jewellery gallery and delve into the world of luxury jewellery inspiration.

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