by WebHorse Main Account | Feb 9, 2023 | Jewelry 101
February Birthstone
Whether you are a popular gift-giver among your friends and loved ones or simply a gem-lover, we bet you would love to unveil the fascinating history of birthstones. Birthstones do not only mesmerize their possessors with their sheer beauty, but all birthstones have tantalizing tales to tell. If you and your loved ones are born in the month of February, you would love to discover the origin, meaning, and more about its special birthstone. So without any further delay, let’s walk you through all the exciting legends and mysteries behind birthstones.
History and Significance of Birthstones
Before we delve into the intriguing world of February’s special birthstones, let’s take a look at the history and significance of birthstones themselves.
You might have seen people adorning themselves with their birthstone rings, bracelets, or necklaces, but what’s the real story behind birthstones? And why have people been so obsessed with the idea of birthstones for ages?
The idea of birthstones isn’t new. You can trace their history and significance in almost every other ancient religion and culture. One of the first places where birthstones were recorded was the bible and the Book of Exodus. These ancient records shed light on the breastplate of Aaron, which contained 12 different birthstones. It wasn’t until the first century, a prominent historian called Joseph found a link between the 12 stones in Aaron’s breastplate and the 12 zodiac signs.
Besides this, birthstones have also been discussed in Hindu traditions and in other parts of the West. In the 5th century, an influential Hindu personality Ratna Prakisha described the relationship between birthstones, deities, and the week of the days. Hindus associate these stones with various celestial forces, which is called Navratna in the Sanskrit language.
Given the rich history and significance of these dazzling beauties, birthstones were encouraged to be used to provide healing powers and protection.
February Birthstones
February has one of the most gorgeous birthstones called amethyst which has an incredible historical background and a strong connection with love and spirituality. All thanks to its charming beauty, wide availability, and high durability, this purple gem is an extremely popular stone. Whether you want to use it as a decorative item for your home or wear it as jewelry, you can use amethyst.
Since amethyst has played a key role in history, there is an array of fascinating legends and folklore associated with this gemstone. So read on to know the roots and meaning of amethyst.
Amethyst
Origin
As far as the geographical origins of the birthstone are concerned, you can find it anywhere in the world, from the icy corners of Siberia to the lush rainforest of Brazil.
Amethyst originates from the Greek word, Amethystos, which means not drunk. The stone has been beloved by everyone since 25,000 BC. The ancient Greeks had a tradition of using the stone as a drink to remain sober the whole night, even if you drank the whole night! Ancient Romans also believed that the stone could keep you away from all the intoxicating powers of Bacchus.
One of the earliest records of amethyst was found in ancient Egyptian history since the days of Alexander the Great. Therefore, Egyptians have a history of carving amethysts into animal-shaped amulets. It is one of those important gemstones described in the Book of Exodus and is believed to be a part of Aaron’s breastplate. Not only this, but this precious stone has also been discussed in the Heavenly City in the New Testament Book of Revelation.
Owing to its biblical origins, the birthstone holds great significance. During the Middle Ages, the Royals possessed and proudly wore amethysts as the purple color symbolizes nobility. The stone was also popular among reputable priests as it was associated with piety. In this period, people of higher ranks and social status owned the birthstone.
Meaning
As we unravel the meaning of Amethyst, the prized birthstone shares a special connection with the month of February and love. Lore has it, St. Valentine- whose day we commemorate on 14th February to celebrate love is believed to have worn a ring featuring Amethyst carved like a cupid.
Some people also believe that this stone has an extension of its powerful connection with love. They believe it multiplies fortitude and also promotes peace and serenity. The stone also helps you have clearer thoughts and a quick wit. In the world of Yogis, the stone also has been associated with the third eye and the crown Chakra.
The color-changing properties of the stone, which rise and fall when placed under different temperatures, are linked with the emotional transition we face in life. In such transitory phases, amethyst can help keep a clear mind, sweep all the negativity aside and help you in decision-making.
All in all, Amethyst has a rich historical and cultural background. Not only this, but this dazzling gemstone also has deep meaning and significance. All of these elements make Amethyst a perfect present for you and your loved ones! Make sure to give it as a gift to you and yourself, this February.
Looking for more information? If you are interested and eager to discover more about your birthstone and how you should set it up in beautiful jewelry, give us a call at 810.229.5335. You can even pay a visit to us at our location in Brighton, MI, to see our birthstone rings firsthand. For more information, check out our Jewelry 101 blog, where we keep uploading interesting blogs. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
by WebHorse Main Account | Oct 30, 2022 | Jewelry 101
Jewelry Trends to Look Out for in 2023
It’s never a bad idea to wear jewelry. A wonderful set of earrings or a stunning bracelet can never fail to elevate your look, and jewels are undoubtedly the most flexible pieces in your wardrobe that can be donned in all seasons. We’ve got some wonderful news for you, fellow accessory aficionados: Beautiful jewelry stunned us at the spring 2023 collections, which were just displayed in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. What’s even better? We combed the globe for desirable items that you can buy right now, influenced by seven big jewellery trends of the year!
Although clothes usually communicate a narrative, jewelry is seen to be more personal. You may already own a distinctive item or something with profound personal importance that you wear every day. These personally meaningful things frequently lean more toward individual preference than trend, but this doesn’t imply you can’t do both. What is the most appealing aspect about jewelry? Statements, layers, and stacks. The most difficult aspect is deciding which pieces to combine together!
There’s a spring 2023 jewelry trend for everyone, from extra-long earrings to stacks of cuff bracelets to modern-edgy spins on wearing pearls.
1. Cuffs
A silver or gold cuff is a great way to create a modest impact with only one item. Cuff bracelets are proven to be the simplest way to dress up any outfit. The shape is frequently merely a broad, arching curve, yet it has a great impression! For example, cuffs are frequently adjustable, allowing you to dress them in a variety of ways. If you want a more traditional style, wrap a cuff (or two) around your wrist and tuck it beneath the sleeves of your blouse or cardigan. Slide the cuff up your forearm or use a wrap-around cuff to make the trend more fascinating.
2. Silver Hoops
For too long, gold has been connected with first place; now is the moment for silver to shine. Large silver statement hoops were a spring/summer ’23 runway staple, and you can bet you’ll be seeing them a lot more soon. Oversized silver hoops are another ’80s motif that looks quite contemporary when coupled with the runway designs for 2023. Consider decreasing the hoop size for daily wear (your ears will appreciate you) and save the big fellas for special events.
If you intend on sporting earrings every day, it’s wise to invest in a set that won’t bother your ears or rust.
It’s occasionally easier to use a fake hoop (aka stud). This pair features a distinctive form that would look amazing with your favorite jacket.
3. Beaded Necklaces
Finely beaded necklaces are ideal for stacking experts. This bohemian style is a simple way to accessorize, whether you’re layering numerous strands of identical beads, mixing and matching, or simply letting a single strand talk for itself. You may simply personalize these necklaces by attaching little charms or trinkets. You definitely don’t have to wear a flower crown or a long skirt to wear beads with your attire.
4. Dangly Earrings
Remember when everyone wore feathers in their hair? Me too. With dangly bohemian earrings, we’re introducing the spirit of the style back in a far less cringy way. Doesn’t matter if the earrings include feathers, fringe, or just dangle below your neckline, this earring style is a pleasant alternative to last season’s dazzling night-luxe earrings and works much better for daytime hours.
5. Bangles
Bangles are back, and we’re not complaining! Bangles are the playful younger sister of the cuff bracelet—they may not be as elegant, but they surely know how to party! The ’80s-inspired item is a terrific way to dress up a look and showcase your uniqueness on an evening out. If you do not already have bangles stashed away from an old costume party, use this trend to build your catalog and we mean literally build it! The most creative way to partake is to stack bangles—geometric forms, transparent acrylics, and animal print patterns are all par for the course.
Looking for more information? If you are piqued with interest and eager to know more about jewelry trends this year, give us a call at 810.229.5335. You can even visit us at our location in Brighton, MI, to see our jewelery firsthand. For more information, check out our Jewellery 101 blog or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
by WebHorse Main Account | Sep 29, 2022 | Jewelry 101
Birthstone of the Month : October Edition:
Birthstones share a distinct yet intriguing history that has always fascinated humans from ancient times. These mesmerizing birthstones and their natural brilliance have long been a way to connect zodiac signs with rare and unique gemstones.
Luckily, few birth months enjoy the supremacy of owning two birthstones. If you and your loved ones are born in October, you are incredibly fortunate to possess two extremely ravishing and versatile gemstones, including dazzling soft Opal and tantalizing Tourmaline.
Discover more about your October birthstones and their unique meanings.
What is the idea behind birthstones?
Before digging deeper into the meaning of your birthstone, here is a background of the birthstones and their significance in our lives.
The universe has a master plan for everything. Since our birth, the universe has aligned our birthstones with us to help us in knowing who we are and what we may become.
The legend of the birthstones dates back to primitive times when many civilizations including Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, Persians, and Indians dedicated different gemstones to each month of the year.
These precious stones bear certain astrological and healing powers to attract positive energies and perfectly align you to your environment. Wearing these gemstones enhances healing and therapeutic powers.
October Birthstones
October has two spectacular gemstones associated with it, rendering a wonderful opportunity to the fortunate people born in this month to choose between opal and tourmaline, each radiating an endless colorful spectrum and beautiful characteristics.
The ornamental Opal is the traditional birthstone for October. They are one of the most colorful gems. The stunning stone possesses color-shifting properties. Opal’s color-shifting play in an eclectic variety of colorful hues, unlike any other gem, is unsurpassed. Opal’s fine beauty has often inspired writers to compare the valuable stone with other elements of nature including, fireworks, galaxies, lightning, and volcanoes.
Tourmaline is the modern alternative that adds to the October repertoire of birthstones. These beautiful stones are found as amazing prismatic crystals, often forming hexagonal pencils in their host rocks. These gemstones possess the widest range of colors in the whole gem kingdom.
Now, let’s unravel the origin and meanings of these significant gemstones.
Opal
Origin: The exquisite stone shares a mysterious yet conflicted history. While some believe its origin can be traced back to Latin culture, there are others who think it comes fr
om Ancient Greek culture. But there are many who also suggest that in reality, Opal originated from India.
Initially, the references to these gemstones were found in the Roman culture around 250 BC. According to the early records, these rare stones
were introduced to the Western World by traders from Bosphorus who claimed that their source of supply was from India.
The name of these valuable stones also comes from India from the Sanskrit word Upala which means ‘precious stone or jewel’. Opal later found its Greek derivative opállios which means ‘to observe color changes’. Opal was also called Opalius among Romans.
Since the stones flashed in brilliant colors, Bedouins and Arabs believed that opal held the power to control lightning and dropped from the celestial dome during thunderstorms as a bolt of lightning.
Ancient Greeks claimed that opals endowed the gift of prophecy and also granted protection from various diseases. In European culture, the stone embodied purity, faithfulness, hope, and truth. Some centuries back, it was believed that opals possess the virtues and power of all colored gemstones.
Meaning
When we talk about the meaning of Opal, the elegant birthstone symbolizes loyalty, commitment, faithfulness, hope, purity, and confidence. The resplendent stone is ingrained with beneficial healing powers that are linked with vision, in terms of eyesight and spiritual vision including, imagination and dreams. Lore has it that if you see opals in your dream, it is a sign of good luck.
The stone also signifies that you are someone extremely calm on the surface but your adventurous side is concealed beneath the surface.
Opal is highly reputable for keeping away bad energies and negative intentions. The stone keeps you in a low profile and protects you from harm and danger. Besides this, Opal awakens positive emotions and motivation within you that instills hope and a positive outlook among Opal people. As a consequence, they are always looking forward to the best things in life.
Tourmaline
Origin: The modern birthstone of October, Tourmaline takes its name from the Sinhalese word toramalli, which means “stone mixed with colors”. It shows different colors within a single crystal. Throughout its historical records, Tourmaline has been mistaken for other gemstones due to its colorful occurrences. During the 16th century, a Spanish conquistador confused the green Tourmaline in Brazil with Emeralds. Besides this, Russian Empress Catherine the Great also possessed the famous egg-sized Tourmaline which was mistaken for Ruby at that time. Such errors continued until the 19th century when mineralogists finally recognized Tourmaline as its own unique mineral species.
As a consequence of these prevalent errors, Tourmaline doesn’t have a rich historical record like other gemstones. However, folklore reveals that Tourmaline serves as the peace stone that dispels fear and attracts tranquility.
Meaning
Since Tourmaline possesses the broadest spectrum of colors, many people link the stone with creativity and artistic expression. As we delve deeper into the healing properties of the stone, it boosts self-awareness and understanding. The regal stone also promotes inspiration, tolerance, and compassion.
Besides its generic healing properties, Tourmaline has specific attributes related to its colors. Black Tourmaline removes negativity and enhances physical vitality. Blue Tourmaline is used for clearing and protecting the aura. Pink Tourmaline defines gentleness and love. Green Tourmaline gives you courage and strength.
At a glance, October birthstones unveil a splendor of dramatic colors, awe-inspiring beauty, and impressive healing properties for all the Libras and Scorpios out there.
Looking for more information? If you are interested and eager to know more about your birthstone and how you should set it up, give us a call at 810.229.5335. You can even visit us at our location in Brighton, MI to see our birthstone rings firsthand. For more information, check out our Jewelry 101 blog or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
by WebHorse Main Account | Aug 30, 2022 | Jewelry 101
Birthstone of the Month September Edition:
Birthstones don’t hold glitz and dazzle for nothing. They have an element of mystery and intrigue to their dazzling beauty. If you and your loved ones are born in the month of September, take a journey through the titillating tales and fascinating history September’s mesmerizing birthstone holds.
Do birthstones have any ruling influence on your life?
Before we unveil the mystery and the meaning of the September birthstone, let’s talk about the influence of Birthstones on your life.
The idea of Birthstones isn’t novel.
Many people believe that birthstones date back to the Bible. The Exodus sheds light on the story of Aaron in which he wore a sacred breastplate with 12 gemstones, representing his 12 tribes. Owing to its spiritual significance, these precious stones were tied to zodiac signs. In 1912, an official birthstone chart was rolled out by the National Association of Jewelers.
But does your birthstone really influence your life? There is a special bond between your character and these bewitching birthstones. When you see your birthstone among a plethora of other gems, your eyes might sparkle and you will feel a distinct connection with your birthstone. The underlying reason behind this unique bond between you and your birthstone is that they are interconnected with your astrological signs. Consequently, your birthstones work on attracting all the Universe’s healing power and energies to you so that you feel uplifted.
These mystique stones align to your atmosphere by exuding a perfect wavelength to you. It is also believed that your birthstones may possess magical attributes that might foster strength and courage, and bring tons of positivity, joy and streak of luck to your life.
September Birthstones
While some months have two or more birthstones, September has only one birthstone; The opulent Sapphire gets the limelight all to itself. Primarily, Sapphire refers to the blue corundum but it comes in all rainbow colors excluding red. Interestingly, “parti” sapphires also exist which captivate its possessors by flaunting two colours at once.
Since Sapphire has been a crucial part of human history, many folklore and myths have popped up around these elegant gems. So let’s dig into the fascinating history and unique characteristics of these significant birthstones.
Sapphire
Origin
One of the most-prized gems in the world, Sapphire has been cherished for centuries. Traditionally, Sapphires share a regal history and its earliest records are found in Greek mythology which dates back to 8000 B.C.
The ancient beloved gem takes its name from the Greek term Sappheiros and the Latin term Sapphirus. Both of these terms translate to Dark Blue Stone.
According to the Greek myth, they used Sapphire to seek the blessings of the God Apollo. They often wore the stone while visiting the Oracle. Aside from this, the Sapphire stone is also linked to Abraham, and believed that this stone embellished the breastplate of the High Priest.
It was also assumed that Sapphires represent Heavens. Another enthralling legend linked with the stone is, Persian rulers assumed that the blue colour of the sky was due to the reflection of the Sapphire. An old superstition that originates from Italy dictates that Sapphires are used to treat eye problems and cure depression.
Throughout history, these stones embodied majesty and royalty. The stone was found on the robes of the Royals and elites. It was believed that these stones protected the Royals from harm and evil energies.
Meaning of the Sapphire
As we delve deeper and unravel the meaning of Sapphire, the stone symbolizes romance, integrity and wisdom. It attracts abundance, favors, healing powers and blessings. The fascinating mineral strengthens your intuitions and soothes your mind. Buddhists believe that Sapphires bring spiritual enlightenment and spiritual clarity in your life.
Since the stone features an eclectic and impressive variety of colorful hues of yellow, purple, pink, green, and classical blue; each color possesses unique attributes and characteristics.
The Yellow Sapphire stimulates the solar plexus chakra which brings a multitude of power, prosperity and wealth. Purple Sapphires are related to your spirit and invite wisdom to your crown chakra. The green varieties fortify your inner vision and cultivate the feelings of love and compassion. It also welcomes integrity. Pink Sapphires spark emotions and nurture your heart. Bringing clarity and purity in your life, White Sapphires add purpose to your path. Last but not the least, Royal Blue Sapphire has an interconnection with your third eye chakra. It enhances your awareness level, and helps you to take responsibility for your thoughts and feelings.
At a glance, the beautiful September birthstone is highly reputed as a symbol of creative expression, serenity, inner calm, and meditation. Sapphire also relieves pain and enhances personal expression.
Looking For More Information?
If you are looking for more information on birthstones or are interested in seeing them in person, give us a call at 810.229.5335, or stop by our location in Brighton, MI to see our engagement rings firsthand. For even more information, check out our Jewelry 101 blog or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
by WebHorse Main Account | Jul 28, 2022 | Jewelry 101
Birthstone of the Month: August Edition
Did you know there is more than just one August Birthstone?
August is one of three birth months represented by three different birthstones. Originally, August birthstones were marked by sardonyx; a beautiful multicolor layered stone made up of two different minerals. Soon after Peridot was added and took over as the primary gemstone. Peridot is easily recognized by its illuminating lime green glow. Spinel was later added, coming in a different array of colors, giving August the vibrancy it deserves, this stone is often mistaken for a ruby or sapphire because of its blood red color. In this article, we’ll explore the August birthstones in all their glory.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the most ancient August birthstone, made with two types of chalcedonies (cryptocrystalline quartz): sard and onyx. The color is varied, with brownish red, dark orange, white, and black layers. Sardonyx was common in Roman times when they used it on seals and signet rings because hot wax could not provide the same stickiness.
Its popularity originated more than 4,000 years ago in the Second Dynasty of Egypt. When battles occurred between Ancient Greeks and Romans, they wore sardonyx talismans detailed with heroic images and mythological gods like Mars and Hercules. They gave a lot of power to the stone, believing it increased bravery and granted the soldiers courage, a winning spirit, victory, and safety on the battlefield.
During the Italian Renaissance, sardonyx was closely linked to eloquence. Public speakers and orators used the gemstone to have clear and seamless communication with their audiences.
Sardonyx was the great equalizer, being worn by elites and regular men and women. It’s affordable now for anyone to enjoy.
Where It’s Found
Sardonyx can be found as an August birthstone in India, Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the USA.
If you’re lucky enough to be born in August, you have three stunning birthstones to highlight your birthday. Which one is your favorite?
Peridot
With its bright lime green color, the origin of peridot’s (sometimes called chrysolite) name isn’t clear.
We can trace back peridot jewelry to the second millennium BC when ancient Egyptian gemstones were found in deposits in the Red Sea on a volcanic island, now referred to as St. John’s Island or Zabargad.
Referred to as the “gem of the sun” by Ancient Egyptians, they believed this unique green glowing stone protected the person who wore it from night terrors. Cleopatra’s emerald collection could very well have been peridot. The proof is unclear.
In the Middle Ages, emerald was often confused with peridot for their similar glow and greenish hue. In Germany’s famed Cologne Cathedral, 200-carat gemstones cover the shrines there. These were also said to be emeralds, but in fact, they are not. They are peridots.
In the 90s, Pakistan found even more peridots, which were claimed to be some of the rarest and finest ever discovered. Known as Kashmir peridots, they measured out to be over 100 carats.
Another active peridot deposit on our planet today is found on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona. Around 80 to 95 percent of the world’s peridot collection can be found there.
Nowadays, peridot is in high demand, and the supply is plenty, making prices for peridot more affordable than ever. Especially for people born in August, peridot is now accessible to be worn by anyone who celebrates their special birthday month.
Where It’s Found
The August birthstone peridot comes from a wonderful rich storied background. Most of the peridot in jewelry is sourced from China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. Some peridot even came to Earth via meteorites and others can be found on beaches and volcanic islands like Peridot Beach and Hawaii. The sands seem to let off a greenish hue.
Spinel
Coming from the Latin word, spina, meaning thorn, Spinel refers to its crystals. The second August birthstone among the three, its color is bright and intense, varied like the Sardonyx. With hues of red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish green, this stone is not for the faint of heart.
Often confused with rubies or pink sapphires, spinel comes in a close second. It actually turns out that the most infamous rubies were spinels instead. Its notable qualities include an octahedral (having eight faces) structure and single refraction. It’s less hard than ruby and sapphire.
Red spinel, an extension of spinel itself, was believed to have medicinal effects for blood disorders and inflammation. They were also said to relieve anger, and anxiety, and bring about relief and harmony. The red spinel is a traditional gift for 22-year wedding anniversaries.
Where It’s Found
Spinel is sourced in several exotic locales including Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. The most intense colors like hot pink and deep red are from Myanmar.
Looking For More Information?
If you are looking for more information on birthstones or are interested in seeing them in person, give us a call at 810.229.5335, or stop by our location in Brighton, MI to see our engagement rings firsthand. For even more information, check out our Jewelry 101 blog or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
