Out & About January 2018

Happy birthday

£177

The origin of birthstones goes back a long way. As gifts for a loved one they offer a personal touch and, says THOMAS PLANT, an item of jewellery with the relevant gem needn’t cost a fortune T he origin of birthstones can be found in the Old Testament where the breast plate of Aaron, the brother of Moses, was decorated These then came to be associated with the signs of the zodiac. resonate with the meaning associated with them. Whatever the reason for making the purchase, you will frequently find earrings,

Birthstones are a thoughtful touch to any birthday or anniversary present and for the recipient they symbolise something special and individual to their month of birth. As well as people buying gifts for others, clients often do bid for pieces of jewellery designed with birthstones as a present for themselves. This is not only because they signify the birth month, but also because they

with 12 different semi-precious stones, each one representing the tribes of Israel. In the New Testament there is mention of the 12 foundations of the new city of Jerusalem, decorated with the stones each given the name of an Apostle. Latterly, the stones were linked to each month of the year and had different meanings, which were symbolised by their colour.

rings, necklaces and even cufflinks designed using birthstones at auction. Prices can be quite reasonable, starting at £50-80 for a pair of cufflinks and anything from £100 for a sapphire and diamond ring.

£177

£200.60

BIRTH STONES

January Garnet (constancy) February Amethyst (sincerity) March Aquamarine (courage) April Diamond (innocence)

July Ruby (contentment)

August Peridot (family) September Sapphire (presence of mind) October Opal (hope)

May Emerald (love) June Pearl (health)

November Topaz (faithfulness) December Turquoise (prosperity)

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