The origin of birthstones actually can be traced back about 6,000 years to Moses wandering in the desert. Every tribe of Israel, and there were twelve of them, had a different stone represented in the Hosen or breastplate of Aaron.
The stones were: (Stones will change according to what translation of the bible you use)
Carnelion /Ruby Reuben Symbol of love and marriage; aids conception, pregnancy and birth
Peridot Simeon Brings blessing of joy and abundance to your life
Emerald Levi Symbol of generosity, modesty and kindness
Turquoise Judah Leads to success in business affairs
Lapis Lazuli Issachar Symbol of honesty and clarity of thought
Quartz Zebulon Bestows strength; symbolizes purity and the love of truth
Jacinth/Topaz Dan Stimulates creativity; brings on to self-fulfillment
Agate Naphtali Has a special calming effect
Amethyst Gad Symbol of spiritual strength; guards against negative energies
Chrysolite Asher Purifies both body and soul; brings inner peace
Onyx Joseph Strengthens one’s courage and self-control
Jasper Benjamin Bestows physical strength; raises self-esteem
Years of study, argument, reasoning and all sorts of questioning has gone into the meaning of the stones. Then when you realize that according to scriptures this is just the tip of the use of semi-precious stones and other stones we have no idea what they were, well, it is fascinating.
In the meantime, the above list just might give you some kind of idea why that piece of Onyx on the mantle really seems to do something for you and or why that Emerald just seems “right” on your hand.
This article contributed by a dear friend. Thank you Kelly
