Birthstones

Have you heard of chrysoberyl, enstatite or kornerupine? They’re only a few of over a hundred different types of gemstones. Gemstones range wide in their place of origin, their colour and when they were first used in jewellery. Some gemstones such as lapis lazuli have been used for thousands of years, others have only been discovered and used in jewellery within the last hundred years such as gaspeite. But let Haywards tell you about some gemstones, which have a more personal significance for all of us – birthstones.

The idea of birthstones date back to ancient times, to the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment adorned with twelve different gemstones, each representing the twelve tribes of Israel. As time went on, each of those twelve gemstones came to represent a month and so they were called birthstones. Each birthstone was believed to heighten different virtues or powers during their given month, for example if people wore an opal in October then their wisdom and hope would be heightened. Consequently people tried to acquire jewellery with all twelve birthstones so virtues such as love, prosperity, luck and health were intensified all year round. Of course Haywards fully supports this idea, the more birthstones the better – not only would you look glamorous with twelve, different gemstone pieces of jewellery, but think of the 365 days of virtues and power! Here’s Haywards quick rundown of the twelve birthstones:

January – Garnet Garnet gemstones are found in various colours such as vibrant green to sunset orange although the most renowned colour of a garnet is deep red. Traditionally travellers believed a garnet would light their way and protect them. Do you have a loved one going travelling anytime soon? We think this is a perfect excuse to purchase a garnet jewellery piece, and with so many colours to choose from this is definitely a gemstone for everyone.

February – Amethyst The wearer of Amethyst is said to be granted a clear head and protection from intoxication. Perhaps this is just a myth, but it’s easy to see why it’s popular, there is no denying that this gemstone’s extravagant violet shade compliment both white and yellow metals.

March – Aquamarine Not surprisingly the name of this gemstone originates from the Latin ‘aqua’ (water) and ‘mare’ (sea), the colour of aquamarine truly captures the bluest of oceans. Myth has it that aquamarine was the gemstone of mermaids and consequently sailors thought it was their lucky stone.

April – Diamond A diamond as well as being a girl’s best friend, is the birthstone for April, and it represents eternity and everlasting love. Represent your everlasting love with a diamond piece of jewellery designed and crafted by Haywards.

May – Emerald Emeralds were known to be Cleopatra’s chosen gemstone and the Ancients Romans dedicated emeralds to Venus, Goddess of love, sex, beauty and fertility. At Haywards we understand emeralds’ long popularity, and believe that due to their rich green colour they will continue to be popular in the future.

June – Pearl Pearls in ancient times were nicknamed ‘tears of the gods’, and represented purity and faithfulness. At Haywards we have used pearls for both vintage and contemporary pieces of jewellery, they truly are timeless.

July – Ruby For centuries the ruby has been considered the ‘king of gems’, the fiery red colour of rubies reflect the past and present belief that rubies represent passion, devotion and confidence. Why not let Haywards create a bespoke piece of jewellery that represents your or your loved one’s virtues?

August – Peridot Peridot’s vivid lime green colour reflects the brightness of its given month, August, and for centuries it has been believed that those who wear it will be protected from illusion.

September – Sapphire The word sapphire comes from the Greek word which means ‘blue stone’ and has been a gemstone loved by many, including Princess Diana who wore a blue sapphire engagement ring. Why not have a look at some of the stunning pieces of jewellery Haywards has created with this dazzling gemstone.

October – Opal Each opal is unique, and can possess a rainbow of colours. Those born in October are lucky enough to have it for their birthstone, and it is said opals can bring the wearer happiness, which colour opal is your favourite?

November – Citrine The colour of a citrine gemstone can definitely brighten up your November, varying from yellow lemon to a dark brown orange. At Haywards we’re particularly proud of our citrine set diamond swirl pendant.

December – Turquoise, Tanzanite and Zircon People born in December are lucky enough to have three birthstones; turquoise, tanzanite and zircon. All three birthstones have different shades of vibrant blue which would look interesting in a bespoke piece of jewellery.

At Haywards we pride ourselves in creating unique, intricate and timeless pieces of jewellery that have been crafted to perfection and inspired by you. Giving a loved one a birthstone piece of jewellery adds personal significance and creates the perfect romantic gift. However perhaps you or your loved one adore the rich colour of a particular birthstone or you think that a certain birthstone resonates with virtues you hold dear – you do not have to be restricted to the month you were born to give a personal, thoughtful and lasting gift. Which birthstone or gemstone do you like best? Follow us on Instagram #haywardsofhongkong to learn more about the fascinating world of gems, diamonds and jewellery.