Based on the findings of historians, it is thought that the custom of selecting birthstones originated six thousand years ago.   The high priest of Memphis, Egypt in 4000 b.c. wore a breastplate made of twelve small objects representing Egyptian amuletic hieroglyphic symbols, which were expected to safeguard him against all kinds of evil.  Aaron, the high priest of the Hebrews, wore a similar breastplate composed of twelve large gems but instead of hieroglyphics, each stone represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel.  Over time, the meaning of the twelve gems evolved as such; the twelve angels of paradise, the twelve foundations of the apostles, and finally the twelve months of the year.  The modern day interpretation is as follows:

January    

Garnet, Constancy

February    

Amethyst, Sincerity

March   

Bloodstone, Courage

April   

Diamond, Purity

 May 

Emerald, Hope

June   

Moonstone or Agate, Health

July   

Ruby, Passion

August    

Sardonic, Conjugal Happiness

September

Sapphire, Repentance

October 

Opal or Amber, Desirability

November   

Topaz, Cheerfulness

December  

Turquoise, Unselfishness