One glance at the deep red seeds nestled inside of a pomegranate fruit explains why the word “garnet” comes from the Latin word “granatus,” meaning “grain” or “seed.” This name was given to the garnet because of its close resemblance to the succulent pomegranate seed. First mined in Sri Lanka over 2,500 years ago, the garnet is also found in Africa, Australia, India, Russia, South America; and in the United States, in Arizona and Idaho.
Amethyst range from Pale Lilac to Deep Purple, and is available in wide variety sizes and shapes and fancy cuts.The stone is mined in South American Countries, like Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Zambia and the darker color ones in Australia. “Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that amethyst was able to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence”. Uniqueness and royal beauty of Amethyst makes a great gift for your February baby’s, their Mother and Grandmother.
Aquamarine is Latin for SEA WATER. Its cool, greenish-blue color conjures images of the Caribbean Islands and sailors believed that this glittery gem came from the treasure chests of mermaids. Water in which an aquamarine has been soaked is believed to cure eye troubles and hiccups. Aquamarine are mined in South America, Africa, China, Tanzania and the Island of Sri Lanka.
For centuries, men and women have found that the sparkle and brilliance of a quality diamond expresses their deepest emotions and symbolizes their enduring love. Many beautiful diamonds to choose from — and no two alike — how do you pick the right diamond while spending wisely? The Diamond Quality Pyramid and the 4Cs, along with the guidance of a trusted jeweler, will lead you to the answer.
It was known that Emerald was a favorite gem of Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt. John F. Kennedy gave Jacqueline Bouvier a 2.88 carat diamond emerald ring. Lucky for love, give your lover an emerald to stay faithful. Wearing an Emerald brings wisdom, growth, and patience. And as any couple in a long-term relationship would agree, all of these qualities are essential for a successful and lasting love.
From one of the humblest of life forms, the mollusk, comes the pearl ~ a gem of unsurpassed beauty and elegance. Ancient civilizations had many stories to explain the origin of June’s birthstone, such as the Greek belief that pearls were the hardened tears of joy that the goddess of love shook from her eyes as she was born from the sea. According to Arab legend, pearls were formed when oysters were lured from the depths of the ocean by the beautiful moon and then swallowed moonlit dewdrops. And the Ancient Chinese thought that these gems originated from the brains of dragons.
Like a perfect red rose, the Ruby’s rich color speaks of love and passion. July’s birthstone is among the most highly prized of gems throughout history and is considered to have magical powers. It was worn by royalty as a talisman against evil and if worn on the left hand, ancient lore has it that the Ruby will bring good fortune to its wearer.
The Peridot gem is known as a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Peridot has been mined for over four thousand years and the best quality Peridot comes either from Myanmar or Egypt. Legend has it that Peridot was the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra, and that pirates favored the Peridot to protect them from evil. It is known as the ‘evening emerald’ due to its yellow-greenish color, vs. the dark green of the emerald.
The Sapphire is a symbol of sympathy, harmony and trust, and this gem provides the most beautiful blues of the gem kingdom. The word Sapphire comes from the Greek word sappheiros. A person who wears the sapphire is said to embrace a well balanced lifestyle in which reliability and temperament run together and there is always a readiness to encounter new things.
The word Opal comes from the Latin word Upala meaning “precious stone,” and this gem provides the most beautiful blues of the gem kingdom. The ancient Romans believed a person who wore the opal was protected from disease, and opals were often set into the crowns and necklaces of rulers who believed its healing powers would ward off evil. Opals are found mainly in Southern Australia. The opal is the traditional gem for the 14th wedding anniversary, a gift of Opal is symbolic of faithfulness and confidence.
The word “Topaz” comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “fire,” and this gem provides the most striking yellows and oranges of the gem kingdom. The Yellow Topaz is said to dispel sadness or anger, warns its wearers of poisons and is believed to prevent sudden death. Yellow topaz is the traditional gem for the 4th, 19th, and 23rd wedding anniversary and are found mainly in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Russia.
The Blue Topaz takes its name from the Topasos Island in Egypt’s Red Sea. In addition to being December’s birthstone, Blue topaz is the Texas state gemstone, often cut with the Lone Star cut – which showcases a star in the heart of the gem. Throughout history, different cultures have believed that Blue Topaz could cure insomnia, asthma and hemorrhages; bring friendship; promote patience and a pleasant disposition, and ensure fidelity.