The birthstone for March is the serene Aquamarine. The name translate from Latin to seawater and was said to keep waters still and grant sailors safe voyage while at sea. Like emerald and morganite, aquamarine is a coloured variety of the mineral beryl. The vivid aqua blue tone stems from iron (II) impurities present in […]

The dreamy amethyst crystal is the birthstone for February babies. Its lilac to deep purple hues are primarily caused by iron impurities, but can also be from irradiation or the presence of trace element impurities within the crystal. The gemstone has featured in royal regalia and jewellery throughout time which explains the stone’s association with […]

The birthstone of people born in November is topaz. It comes in a vast array of colours from yellows and oranges, pinks, reds and purples, greens, blues and colourless. The blue variety of topaz is the birthstone of December. Despite the blue variety being commonplace in jewellery it is actually quite rare, and is usually […]

The spectacular kaleidoscopic colours of opals are unlike any other gemstone. This unique gemstone is the birthstone for colourful characters born in October. Opals are famous for their breathtaking interaction with light, creating a mystical aura that has the power to stir the imagination. As light dances across the surface of opal gemstones, imagery of […]

Sapphire, the birthstone of September, is known for imparting on wearers peace, wisdom, loyalty, nobility and faith. While most people are referring to the blue variety of corundum crystal when they use the term “sapphire,” the gemstone is actually present in every colour of the rainbow – with the exception of red. As discussed in […]

The beautiful olive green peridot is the birthstone of August. The Romans titled peridot “The Evening Emerald” as the gem’s vibrant green hue did not darken with the setting of the sun. In fact, ancient Egyptians were said to have mined peridot at night time, as the stones natural glow made it easier to locate. […]

For those born in July, be prepared to cash in your cheques for this birthstone! Known for being the most expensive coloured gem, ruby is the birthstone for July. The name ruby originates from the Latin word for red, “rubeus.” Pure aluminum oxide corundum crystal is a colourless mineral. Coloured varieties arise from contaminants in […]

Pearl is the birthstone of June and the only gemstone formed by a living organism. Pearls are formed within the mantle of oysters or mussels. Microscopic irritants lodged in certain molluscs’ shell cause the deposition of concentric layers of calcium carbonate, forming a round pearl. The colour of pearls is usually white or cream, however […]

In the northern hemisphere, the month of May falls in the heart of spring. It is only fitting that the gemstone of spring is also the birthstone for May. Famous for their brilliant green hues, the emerald has been a highly sought after stone for jewellery wearers throughout time. The most highly values emeralds are […]