Birthstones and birthstone jewelry gifts

Throughout the ages, birthstones have held an almost mystical attraction. Many ancient cultures have believed that specific gems conferred power and protection.

Even today, birthstones are said to represent specific qualities—courage, sincerity, creativity, innocence, constancy, luck, etc.

Great gifts for females of all ages: Birthstones are also simply beautiful. In the form of jewelry—rings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants, and earrings, they make always-welcome gifts. And they can be particularly meaningful first jewelry gifts for young girls or teens.

A gold chain with a birthstone pendant, or small jeweled earrings will thrill a girl who's making her First Communion, celebrating a Bat Mitzvah, or enjoying her Quinciñera or Sweet Sixteen.

On the other hand, a ring or bracelet with the birthstones of each child or grandchild will make any mother or grandmother smile each time she looks at it.

Here's a chart of the modern birthstones for each month: