Topaz, The December's Birthstone

December's birthstone is associated with strength, fidelity, and prosperity. Both the ancient Romans and Egyptians associated topaz with their respective sun gods and saw it as a powerful protective stone. Blue topaz is prized for its soothing and captivating blue color, which is usually divided into three categories: sky blue for the palest shade, Swiss blue for the more saturated medium shade, and London blue for the deepest shade. Also known as an artist's stone, blue topaz is reputed to inspire creativity and enhance concentration.

Citrine, The November's Birthstone

Citrine is a golden yellow form of quartz, with a sunny hue that is naturally energizing and uplifting. November's birthstone is said to promote happiness and creativity and to nurture friendships. It is also known as a stone of truth, integrity, and wisdom. For writers and other artists, citrine is believed to be a source of inspiration. Citrine is also known as the lucky "merchant's stone," because merchants have traditionally placed citrines in their cash drawers to attract and maintain wealth and prosperity.

Opal, The October's Birthstone

October's birthstone comes in a wide range of colors and is best known for its rainbow variety that displays a beautiful play of colors. Ancient Romans saw the opal as a symbol of purity and hope, and Arabs believed that this precious stone traveled to earth from the heavens on a flash of lightening. Known as the "seeing stone," opal is believed to provide inspiration and spiritual enlightenment. It is also said to elevate the mood and to help its wearer find true love. Also, find October's alternative birthstones: tourmaline, aquamarine, and zircon.

Sapphire, The September's Birthstone

Although sapphires come in a number of colors, this prized gemstone is associated most closely with its deep heavenly blue, a color suggested by the phrase "sapphire seas." September's birthstone has been used by priests throughout the ages as a symbol of purity, and by kings as an emblem of wisdom. Those born in September are said to possess the qualities of the sapphire--truthfulness, sincerity, and steadfast loyalty.

Peridot, The August's Birthstone

The lively light green hue of August's birthstone conveys positive energy and optimism, and those born in August are said to be happy, generous people. This beautiful gemstone was prized by ancient Egyptians, who fashioned ritual drinking vessels from peridot, believing it had a power to draw them closer to nature. It was also reputed to be a favorite of Cleopatra's. Period is known as the "gem of the sun" and as the "evening emerald," both names reflecting its vibrant golden green color and luminous quality. Period is believed to promote tranquility, enhance speech, and foster good relationships in marriage.

Ruby, The July's Birthstone

Known as "king of the gems" in ancient Sanskrit, the ruby has long been prized for its rarity and its passionate red hue. Ruby's designation as the birthstone for July is unique in its universality. It makes all four lists--Modern, Traditional, Mystical, and Ayurvedic. Ancient lore tells that a ruby's fiery red color is produced by an internal flame that can never be extinguished, making this gem a particularly fitting symbol for enduring love. Those born in July wear rubies as symbols of beauty, love, happiness, and good fortune.

Pearl, The June's Birthstone

June's birthstone is not a stone at all, but a beautiful organic product of the humble mollusk. This gift of nature comes to us complete and is the only gem that requires no faceting or polishing to bring out its radiant beauty. Treasured by countless cultures over thousands of years, the pearl is a timeless symbol of modesty and purity. It is believed to strengthen hearts and spirits, enhance friendships, and promote health and longevity. Also, find June's alternative birthstones: pink sapphire, aquamarine, and zircon.