Magical Gemstones

Gemstone folklore has been with us since before written history. Psychic, spiritual and healing powers are linked in many cultures to particular gemstones. Red garnet, for instance, was once used to relieve fever and was also carried as an amulet against accidents in travel.

The tradition of birthstones arose out of the belief that particular stones were of special benefit to those born in a certain month. Ruby was believed to preserve the bodily and mental health of the wearer born in the appropriate month, in some cultures July, because the ruby was attributed with the power to remove evil thoughts, control amorous desire and to aid in reconciling disputes.

Some cultures connect certain gems with a season, emerald with spring, for example, or diamond with winter. Even the hour of birth is considered in some societies to mean a special benefit from a certain gem.

The one sure psychological benefit of a particular gemstone is the pleasure associated with its wear -- pleasures of giving, of receiving, of valuing oneself in wearing a beautiful and long-lasting gem. Some people, including some in our country, still hold the belief that gems are magical. They certainly are magically pleasurable to wear.