Birthstones: Discover their characteristics

Birthstones have long been used in jewelry to symbolize the months of the year and bring personal meaning to jewelry. In Canada, there are a variety of birthstones used to create unique and precious jewelry. Let's discover together the 12 birthstones and their gemological characteristics, as well as information on the budget to expect on the market.

1. January – Garnet: Garnet is a gemstone that comes in different colors, but it is usually associated with a deep red hue. It is appreciated for its beauty, hardness and shine. Garnet symbolizes self-confidence, inner strength and passion. It is often used in making jewelry such as rings, necklaces and earrings. High-quality garnets can be quite expensive, especially stones of large size and exceptional color.

2. February – Amethyst: Amethyst is a purple gemstone, often associated with qualities such as serenity, balance and spirituality. It is renowned for its natural beauty and symbolic significance. Amethyst is used in various types of jewelry, from rings to pendants, and is also used as a healing and meditation stone. The color of amethyst can vary from pale purple to deep purple. Depending on the size and quality of the stone, amethyst jewelry can be affordable or more expensive.

3. Mars – Aquamarine: Aquamarine is a refreshing blue gemstone, often associated with mental clarity, inner peace, and communication. It is known for its transparency and luminosity. Aquamarine is commonly used in jewelry making such as rings, bracelets and earrings. The color of aquamarine can vary from pale blue to intense blue-green. Depending on the size and quality of the stone, aquamarine jewelry can be affordable or more expensive.

4. April - Diamond: Diamond is the hardest and brightest gemstone, known for its rarity, purity and timeless beauty. It is associated with qualities such as eternal love, purity and success. Diamonds are used in making high-end jewelry, such as engagement rings and necklaces. Their luster and value depend on factors such as size, color, clarity and cut. High quality diamonds can be very expensive, especially large stones of exceptional clarity.

5. May – Emerald: Emerald is a green gemstone, often associated with qualities such as growth, harmony and fertility. She is known for her exquisite beauty and vibrant glow. Emeralds are used in making high-quality jewelry, such as rings, necklaces and bracelets. The value of emeralds depends on the color, clarity and size of the stone. High-quality emeralds, especially those with intense color and exceptional transparency, can command high prices.

6. June - Pearl: Pearl is an organic gem produced by molluscs, and it is unique because it requires no cutting or polishing. Pearls symbolize purity, innocence and femininity. They are used in jewelry making such as necklaces, bracelets and earrings, adding timeless elegance. Pearls can vary in color and size, and high quality natural pearls are particularly prized.

7. July - Ruby: Ruby is a precious stone from the corundum family and is distinguished by its intense red color. It is ranked among the most precious gems, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. The purer and more intense the color of the ruby, the higher its value. High quality rubies can be quite expensive, especially stones of large size and exceptional color.

8. August - Peridot: Peridot is a green gem, belonging to the olivine family. It is generally transparent and has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Peridot is relatively affordable compared to some other gemstones, making it a popular choice for jewelry. The price of peridot depends on its size, color and clarity.

9. September - Sapphire: Sapphire is a precious stone from the corundum family, mainly known for its blue color. However, there are also sapphires in different colors, including pink, yellow and purple. Sapphire is a durable gem, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. High-quality sapphires, especially those with intense color and exceptional transparency, can command high prices.

10. October - Opal: Opal is a unique gemstone, characterized by its shimmering play of colors called "opalescence". It is formed from hydrated silica and has a relatively low hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Opal is often used in creating artistic and unique jewelry. Its price depends on factors such as its color, shine and the presence of spectacular patterns.

11. November – Topaz: Topaz is a transparent to translucent gemstone, available in a variety of colors, from pale yellow to deep blue. It is renowned for its hardness and shine. Topaz is used in jewelry making, including rings, necklaces and earrings. The price of topaz depends on its color, size and purity.

12. December - Turquoise: Turquoise is an opaque blue-green to green gemstone, often associated with luck, protection and healing. It has been used in jewelry creation for thousands of years. Turquoise can feature unique veins and patterns that add to its charm. Its price varies depending on its size, color and quality.

These birthstones offer a diverse range of colors, meanings and values. Whether you're looking for a personal piece of jewelry or a special gift, each birthstone brings a unique touch to jewelry in Canada.

Sources:

• Gemological Institute of America (GIA): https://www.gia.edu/
• International Gem Society (IGS) - https://www.gemsociety.org/