Make It a 21st Birthday to Remember Forever with Birthstone Jewellery

Wearing stones of particular significance is a tradition dating back to Biblical times. They were once thought to have magical powers and to bring the wearer good luck. Today, they make wonderful 18th or 21st gifts. In case you didn’t know, for at least 500 years, each month has had a particular precious stone associated with it. Though which stone goes with which month has varied somewhat over the centuries, according to modern tradition they are: garnet for January; amethyst for February; aquamarine for March; crystal quartz for April; Emerald or chrysoprase for May; pearl or moonstone for June; Ruby for July; peridot for August; sapphire for September; pink opal or tourmaline for October; citrine for November; turquoise or blue topaz for December.

When it comes to so significant a date as an 18th or 21st birthday, something so linked to one’s origins is a great way to mark and remember the occasion. The tradition of wearing birthstones is thought to date back to at least Biblical times. Exodus the breastplate worn by the prophet Aaron is described thus, "It was square... and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there was a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings.

There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes" From there, different precious stones became associated with different signs of the zodiac and, over time, this became a belief that certain precious stones were linked to certain months of the year. The tradition of wearing birthstones arose in Poland, probably during either the fifteenth or sixteenth century. At that time it was believed that certain stones held magical powers and each birthstone’s power would become greater during their particular month. For that reason, people of the time would rotate the birthstone they wore in line with the months.

Some people still follow this tradition and so invest in a full set of the twelve birthstones. Nobody wants to give mass-produced jewellery as 21st gifts. One wants to give something precious and personal. Buying birthstone jewellery as 18th or 21st gifts allows one to create something that is truly personalised. All of the fittings are made in solid Sterling silver or 9 carat gold. To add to the individual character of each piece, one can choose to have the wearer’s name or initials incorporated. Birthstones are available fitted as ever bracelets, every popular rings, pendants or larger (but still delicate) necklaces.

All of these choices are available in a range of styles and designs to suit any taste. From charm bracelets laced with a variety of luck-bringing symbols to Sterling silver rings handmade by big name designers. As well as having a birthstone that is indelibly linked to the wearer, you can also choose between a real birthstone and a Swarovski crystal in birthstone colour, dependant on budget. Ensure you are dealing with a reputable supplier. Some imitation birthstones can look correct, but are only made of glass and plastic. When marking an 18th or 21st birthday, one doesn’t want to be handing over what is essentially children’s play jewellery!

Reputable jewellers will ensure that even their imitation (or “synthetic”) stones are of the highest quality. Once you’ve invested in that perfect 18th or 21st birthday gift, you want to make sure it lives up to all your expectations. Also make sure to ask about the jeweller’s aftercare package. The best should offer a cleaning service so the lucky bearer can keep their piece looking bright without damaging it. It doesn't matter if you believe in their luck-giving properties or not; birthstone jewellery makes a great gift for an 18th or 21st birthday. The association of a particular stone with a particular month adds a particular significance to the gift you buy your loved one beyond simply looking pretty (and they do look pretty).