The name ‘garnet’ is derived from the Latin word ‘granatus’, which means ‘pomegranate’. It is a reference to the similarity of the deep red color. Indian astrologists believe that garnet helps you to get rid of negative feelings and boosts your self-confidence and creativity! This deep red crystal symbolizes strength, luck and success. The perfect boost to start a new year with!

Amethyst is a crystal that provides strength and willpower, which can be very helpful in the dark and cold month of February. It is said that people who wear amethyst become more clear headed and are inventive in business. In some cultures it is believed that lovers with too much passion are calmed by wearing an amethyst.

Aquamarine is a healing stone, but is also associated with wealth and the sea. Ancient seafarers believed that aquamarine would keep them safe by calming the waves. Because this crystal has the color of sky and the water, it is said to symbolize eternal life. It was also thought that wearing aquamarine would boost the amount of happiness in your marriage. Aquamarine will bring the wearer sincerity, good communication and persistence.

The birthstone of April is Diamond, and is the hardest and most expensive crystal found on Earth. Because of these characteristics, diamonds are often used for engagement and wedding bands to symbolize eternal indestructible love and commitment. For ages it was also believed that the wearer would gain strength and success.

Emerald is the symbol of rebirth, and can be related to the fact that May brings a lot of new life in nature.  Green as grass, emerald derives its name from the ancient Greek word ‘smaragdos’ which literally means ‘green’. 

Emerald was one of the favorite stones of Cleopatra, and since then always has been as well for royal families. Maybe because emerald was associated with fertility and immortality.

A lot of mythologies are tied to the pearl. Persian mythology referred to pearls as ‘the tears of gods’. Chinese legends say that the moon was the creator of pearls, instilling them with heavenly glow and mystery. Pearls are very unique because it is the only gemstone that Is formed by living creatures. Perhaps this is why the pearl is imbued with the qualities of purity, beauty and health. 

In the old India, ruby was seen as the mother of all precious stones for its rarity, hardness, beauty and mystical powers. Ruby was a symbol of the sun which lets everything grow. The name ‘ruby’ originates from the Latin word ‘ruber’, which means ‘red’. Ruby has always been associated with love and passion which can lead to a beautiful new life, just like the sun

The birthstone peridot is known for being formed under extreme conditions, as it can be formed in volcanoes and can sometimes also be found in meteors that traveled from outer space. Peridot was the favorite stone of pirates. They believed that it would protect them on their dangerous journeys and when combined with gold, it would work even stronger. Peridot is said to protect the wearer against nightmares and helps to release. Some believe that the name of this stone comes from the Greek word peridona, which means ‘giving plenty’. Perhaps that’s why peridot was associated with prosperity and good fortune.

Sapphire is a deep blue shimmering crystal and symbolizes wisdom, virtue and fidelity. It is also one of the favorite gems of the (European) Royalty, in particular the British Royalty (remember the legendary crown of the Queen and the Ladi Di halo ring?). Therefore it is no surprise where 'Royal Blue' derives its name from. Luckily nowadays sapphire is not only reserved for the rich and famous, but it is a very popular crystal for daily wear because it is one of the strongest crystals and easy to combine.

When you are an October baby, then the magnificent colorful opal is your birthstone. Opal is a remarkable crystal because of all the different color combinations they can have.  Besides that, opals have a unique glistening structure, which makes them intriguing everytime you look at them. Therefore it is no surprise that opals are associated with love, seduction and luck.

Opal is formed in desert areas and comes in several kinds, but the most rare type of opal is the black opal; mostly found in Australia.

When Autumn is in full glory, citrine carries the power of the sun and gives you extra warmth and energy. It helps you to set goals and accomplish them. We set goals on a daily basis, but the ones we set at the end of the year have more impact. Looking at the warm golden yellow colour of the citrine it is easy to understand why this is the birthstone for this time of the year.

Turquoise is a strong energy protector and can also help to counter feelings of sadness. Especially in winter times we are more vulnerable and sensitive, so a bit of turquoise can help us through the cold and dark days. The Apache Indians believed that instead of a pot full of gold like the Irish people say, you could actually find Turquoise stone at the end of a rainbow. Turquoise was believed to bring good fortune and health.