The Ultimate Guide to Birthstones, Anniversary Gems, Zodiac Gemstones and Their Lore

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The Ultimate Guide to Birthstones, Anniversary Gems, Zodiac Gemstones and Their Lore

The LongLocks HairSticks^® Boutique's Ultimate Birthstones, Anniversary, Zodiac Gemstones and Lore Chart provides a complete listing of traditional birthstones, modern birthstones, zodiac birthstones and anniversary gemstones, as well as the lore and legends associated with these gems. Visit the LongLocks PearliStix page to see hair jewelry designed with a genuine mother-of-pearl finish in an array of beautiful colors, the LongLocks SterlingStix page for genuine sterling silver designs, or search the site to find available one-of-a-kind LongLocks designs created using the components listed below in the "Crystal or Gemstone" column. You will find an extensive listing of beautiful jewelry in Amazon's jewelry catalog designed with the linked gemstones in the "Gemstone Lore" column.

Traditional Birthstones | Modern Birthstones | Zodiac Birthstones | Anniversary Gemstones

Traditional Birthstones by Month
	Month	Birthstone	Crystal or Gemstone	Gemstone Lore
	January	Garnet	Garnet Siam	Garnet is a sultry and beautiful gem. Garnet lore suggests the gemstone brings love, encourages compassion and enhances imagination.
	February	Amethyst	Amethyst Cardinal (Swarovski) Violet Lavender Tanzanite	Amethyst is the most beautiful form of quartz, appearing in a wide range of hues from the palest lilac to the deepest royal purple. Amethyst lore suggests the gem, which is the birthstone for the month of February, to be an aid in meditation and has calming as well as protective qualities. It is also said to contribute to healing, love, inspiration, intuition and sobriety.
	March	Bloodstone	Bloodstone	Bloodstone is a gorgeous gemstone of deep forest green with tiny speckles of bright red scattered throughout. The legend of the origin of the stone suggests it was first formed when drops of Christ's blood fell and stained jasper that lay beneath the cross. The gem is said to increase courage, healing and renewal, while increasing strength and enabling intuitive decision making.
	April	Diamond	Crystal Aurora Borealis Crystal Transmission (Swarovski) Rock Crystal	Diamonds. The most coveted of all precious gems, the word "diamond" originates from the Greek word "adamas," which means "invincible" - a perfectly fitting name for the hardest of all gemstones. Diamond lore suggests the gem encourages courage and strength, that the stone offers protection, and it is of course associated with romance. It is said that bad luck comes to those who steal diamonds. Throughout history man has always had a romantic view of diamonds. The Greeks considered them to be the tears of the gods, while the ever-romantic Romans thought them to have splintered from falling stars. Cubic zirconia became the most popular choice as a substitution for diamond when a Russian scientist found a way to create it in a laboratory in the 1970s. Made through a complicated process, this radiant crystal is created by combining zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which is heated to almost 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit and then carefully cooled in order to create flawless, superbly sparkling crystals. The result is a stone that is durable, brilliant and absolutely beautiful. Cubic Zirconia actually weighs 75% more than diamonds of the same weight, and registers a hardness of 8.5 of the Mohs scale, making it harder than most gemstones and only 1.5 points softer than genuine diamond (the hardest of all stones). Moissanite is almost as hard, and actually has an amazing 2.4 times more fire and 10% more brilliance than natural diamond. Lab created moissanite is quickly becoming the most desired stone to replace natural diamonds. Moissanite does occur naturally but as natural moissanite is only found in certain types of meteor craters, it is extremely rare (much rarer than diamonds) and only found in tiny quantities. A truly stunning gemstone, moissanite is by no means inexpensive but remains much more affordable than natural diamond.
	May	Emerald	Emerald Erinite (Swarovski) Olivine Green Jade	Emeralds have been coveted as gemstones for centuries, so coveted that few viable emerald mines remain today and newly-mined emeralds of high quality are extremely rare. Emerald lore suggests the gem preserves chastity, protects one from evil spirits, bestows eloquence and intelligence, and encourages romance.
	June	Alexandrite	Alexandrite Light Amethyst	Alexandrite is coveted for its color-changing attribute and is among the rarest and most valuable of all gemstones. Alexandrite lore suggests the gem's strongest aspect is one of healing. It is thought to bring balance and calmness to the mind. Alexandrite is also thought to help one overcome lack of confidence, low self-esteem, and to encourage direction and focus in life.
	July	Ruby	Ruby Light Siam Fuchsia	Ruby usually occurs in a beautiful shade of deep fuchsia pink, not the true red with which they are often erroneously associated. Ruby lore suggests the gemstone protects one from misfortune and ill-health, and can bring reconcilliation to lover's quarrels. The ruby symbolizes success, devotion and integrity. Ruby appears as accent stones in engagement rings more often than any other colored gem and have traditionally been a symbol of passion and a promise of the heart.
	August	Sardonyx	Sardonyx	Sardonyx most often occurs in a wide range of deep reds, browns and black. Sardonyx lore suggests the gemstone imparts strength and provides protection. The gem is said to promote integrity and virtue, and to encourage the quest for a meaningful existence. Sardonyx is also purported to improve ones perception and to improve intelligence.
	September	Sapphire	Sapphire Dark Sapphire Montana Blue Capri Blue	Sapphire naturally occurs in almost all the colors of the rainbow but is most commonly associated with shades of blue that range from periwinkle to deep, almost black, navy blue. Coveted for centuries as a gemstone, sapphire lore suggests the gemstone encourages chastity, imparts wisdom and truth and enhances perception. It is also said to help maintain peace of mind and serenity. Sapphires are also associated with romance, fidelity and undying devotion.
	October	Tourmaline	Tourmaline Turmaline (Swarovski)	Tourmaline is a popular gemstone that occurs in a huge variety of colors from deep greens rosy pink hues. Tourmaline lore suggests the gem promotes female balance and protection while helping to dispell fears, calm nerves and encourage tranquil and recuperative sleep.
	November	Citrine	Citrine Jonquil	Citrine is a sunny quartz gemstone that comes in a wide variety of yellow, orange and warm brown tones. Citrine lore suggests the gem promotes creativity, personal clarity and helps to eliminate self-destructive tendencies.
	December	Zircon Turquoise Lapis Lazuli	Blue Zircon Turquoise Lapis Lazuli	Blue zircon is a beautiful transparent blue gem. Zircon lore suggests the gemstone brings prosperity, maintains one's honor, encourages wisdom and brings restful sleep. Turquoise, which occurs naturally in hues that range from yellow to green to aqua blue and is dyed in an even wider range of colors, has been treasured as a gemstone for centuries. Sleeping Beauty turquoise, mined only from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, is among the most beautiful and treasured turquoise in the world. Turquoise lore suggests the gem strengthens the body and enhances creative expression, peace of mind, emotional balance, communication, friendship and loyalty. Lapis lazuli is one of the most coveted of opaque semiprecious gems. The gemstone occurs in blues that range from faded denim to deep navy. Lapis Lazuli lore suggests the stone releases tension and anxiety and increases mental clarity, including creative expression.

Modern Birthstones by Month
	Month	Birthstone	Crystal or Gemstone	Gemstone Lore
	January	Garnet	Garnet Siam	Garnet is a sultry and beautiful gem. Garnet lore suggests the gemstone brings love, encourages compassion and enhances imagination.
	February	Amethyst	Amethyst Cardinal (Swarovski) Violet Lavender Tanzanite	Amethyst is the most beautiful form of quartz, appearing in a wide range of hues from the palest lilac to the deepest royal purple. Amethyst lore suggests the gem, which is the birthstone for the month of February, to be an aid in meditation and has calming as well as protective qualities. It is also said to contribute to healing, love, inspiration, intuition and sobriety.
	March	Aquamarine	Aquamarine Light Azore (Swarovski) Light Sapphire	Aquamarine naturally occurs in hues from deep aqua blue to almost white. At one point in history the gemstone was believed to be the gift of mermaids. Aquamarine lore suggests the stone aids in clearing one's mind and enables intellect and self-expression; encourages compassion, love and tolerance; and increases coourage.
	April	Diamond	Crystal Aurora Borealis Crystal Transmission (Swarovski) Rock Crystal	Diamonds. The most coveted of all precious gems, the word "diamond" originates from the Greek word "adamas," which means "invincible" - a perfectly fitting name for the hardest of all gemstones. Diamond lore suggests the gem encourages courage and strength, that the stone offers protection, and it is of course associated with romance. It is said that bad luck comes to those who steal diamonds. Throughout history man has always had a romantic view of diamonds. The Greeks considered them to be the tears of the gods, while the ever-romantic Romans thought them to have splintered from falling stars. Cubic zirconia became the most popular choice as a substitution for diamond when a Russian scientist found a way to create it in a laboratory in the 1970s. Made through a complicated process, this radiant crystal is created by combining zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which is heated to almost 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit and then carefully cooled in order to create flawless, superbly sparkling crystals. The result is a stone that is durable, brilliant and absolutely beautiful. Cubic Zirconia actually weighs 75% more than diamonds of the same weight, and registers a hardness of 8.5 of the Mohs scale, making it harder than most gemstones and only 1.5 points softer than genuine diamond (the hardest of all stones). Moissanite is almost as hard, and actually has an amazing 2.4 times more fire and 10% more brilliance than natural diamond. Lab created moissanite is quickly becoming the most desired stone to replace natural diamonds. Moissanite does occur naturally but as natural moissanite is only found in certain types of meteor craters, it is extremely rare (much rarer than diamonds) and only found in tiny quantities. A truly stunning gemstone, moissanite is by no means inexpensive but remains much more affordable than natural diamond.
	May	Emerald	Emerald Erinite (Swarovski) Olivine Green Jade	Emeralds have been coveted as gemstones for centuries, so coveted that few viable emerald mines remain today and newly-mined emeralds of high quality are extremely rare. Emerald lore suggests the gem preserves chastity, protects one from evil spirits, bestows eloquence and intelligence, and encourages romance.
	June	Pearl Moonstone	Pearl Moonstone	Cultured pearls are the most elegant of all gemstones. Though they occur naturally in several colors, they are often dyed in a rainbow of beautiful hues. Pearl lore suggests the gemstones strengthen the mind, help control anger and improve memory. They are said to have a calming and peaceful effect, and encourage feelings of compassion and love. They are also believed to enable the wearer to look within. Moonstone, especially rainbow moonstone, is a simply gorgeous gemstone that almost glows in lovely hues of blues! Moonstone lore suggests the gem is an emotional balancer that helps to minimize the tendency to over-react and provides flexibility in attitudes, as well as relieving stress.
	July	Ruby	Ruby Light Siam Fuchsia	Ruby usually occurs in a beautiful shade of deep fuchsia pink, not the true red with which they are often erroneously associated. Ruby lore suggests the gemstone protects one from misfortune and ill-health, and can bring reconcilliation to lover's quarrels. The ruby symbolizes success, devotion and integrity. Ruby appears as accent stones in engagement rings more often than any other colored gem and have traditionally been a symbol of passion and a promise of the heart.
	August	Peridot	Peridot Chrysolite (Swarovski)	Peridot, a breathtaking lime or olive green gemstone, is the birthstone for the month of August. Peridot lore suggests the gem helps to make dreams a reality, and is the a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Legend has it that pirates used peridot to guard them against evil.
	September	Sapphire	Sapphire Dark Sapphire Montana Blue Capri Blue	Sapphire naturally occurs in almost all the colors of the rainbow but is most commonly associated with shades of blue that range from periwinkle to deep, almost black, navy blue. Coveted for centuries as a gemstone, sapphire lore suggests the gemstone encourages chastity, imparts wisdom and truth and enhances perception. It is also said to help maintain peace of mind and serenity. Sapphires are also associated with romance, fidelity and undying devotion.
	October	Opal Tourmaline	Opal White Opal (Swarovski) Tourmaline Turmaline (Swarovski)	Opal is a stunning gemstone that glows with firey colors from witin. Opal lore suggests the gem clarifies one's emotions and desires. The stone symbolizes hope and purity, and has traditionally been used as a good luck charm or talisman. Opals were even used to detect the presence of poison at one time. They are also said to eliminate nightmares, enhance power and attract fortune. Tourmaline is a popular gemstone that occurs in a huge variety of colors from deep greens rosy pink hues. Tourmaline lore suggests the gem promotes female balance and protection while helping to dispell fears, calm nerves and encourage tranquil and recuperative sleep.
	November	Citrine Yellow Topaz	Citrine Light Topaz Smoke Topaz Colorado Topaz (Swarovski) Topaz Jonquil Smokey Quartz	Citrine is a sunny quartz gemstone that comes in a wide variety of yellow, orange and warm brown tones. Citrine lore suggests the gem promotes creativity, personal clarity and helps to eliminate self-destructive tendencies. Topaz is a beautiful, serene gemstone and can be found in colors ranging from white to yellow to various shades of blue. Topaz lore suggests the gem can heal both physical and mental disorders, as well as prevent death. It is also believed to be a powerful amulet to protect one from injury.
	December	Turquoise Blue Topaz	Turquoise Blue Topaz	Turquoise, which occurs naturally in hues that range from yellow to green to aqua blue and is dyed in an even wider range of colors, has been treasured as a gemstone for centuries. Sleeping Beauty turquoise, mined only from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, is among the most beautiful and treasured turquoise in the world. Turquoise lore suggests the gem strengthens the body and enhances creative expression, peace of mind, emotional balance, communication, friendship and loyalty. Topaz is a beautiful, serene gemstone and can be found in colors ranging from white to yellow to various shades of blue. Topaz lore suggests the gem can heal both physical and mental disorders, as well as prevent death. It is also believed to be a powerful amulet to protect one from injury.

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Zodiac Birthstones by Sign
	Sign	Birthstone	Crystal or Gemstone	Gemstone Lore
	Aries	Bloodstone	Bloodstone	Bloodstone is a gorgeous gemstone of deep forest green with tiny speckles of bright red scattered throughout. The legend of the origin of the stone suggests it was first formed when drops of Christ's blood fell and stained jasper that lay beneath the cross. The gem is said to increase courage, healing and renewal, while increasing strength and enabling intuitive decision making.
	Taurus	Sapphire	Sapphire Dark Sapphire Montana Blue Capri Blue	Sapphire naturally occurs in almost all the colors of the rainbow but is most commonly associated with shades of blue that range from periwinkle to deep, almost black, navy blue. Coveted for centuries as a gemstone, sapphire lore suggests the gemstone encourages chastity, imparts wisdom and truth and enhances perception. It is also said to help maintain peace of mind and serenity. Sapphires are also associated with romance, fidelity and undying devotion.
	Gemini	Agate	Agate	Agate is a lovely translucent gemstone that occurs in an extensive rainbow of natural and enhanced colors. Gemstone lore suggests this gem helps to balance yin yang energy, and enhances creativity and strengthens the intellect. It is also thought to bring good luck and instill harmony. It is believed that agate improves courage, emotional strength and self-confidence, and encourages marital and romantic fidelity. The gem is considered to be a very protective stone for children.
	Cancer	Emerald	Emerald Erinite (Swarovski) Olivine Green Jade	Emeralds have been coveted as gemstones for centuries, so coveted that few viable emerald mines remain today and newly-mined emeralds of high quality are extremely rare. Emerald lore suggests the gem preserves chastity, protects one from evil spirits, bestows eloquence and intelligence, and encourages romance.
	Leo	Onyx	Onyx Jet	Onyx is a mysterious and beautiful gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. The gem occurs naturally in many colors but is best known as black. Onyx lore suggests the gem increases happiness, intuition, and instincts while helping to break bad habits.
	Virgo	Carnelian	Carnelian	Carnelian is an elegant form of chalcedony that occurs in shades ranging from sienna to deep red. Carnelian lore suggests the stone enhances attunement with the inner self and improves concentration.
	Libra	Peridot	Peridot Chrysolite (Swarovski)	Peridot, a breathtaking lime or olive green gemstone, is the birthstone for the month of August. Peridot lore suggests the gem helps to make dreams a reality, and is the a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Legend has it that pirates used peridot to guard them against evil.
	Scorpio	Beryl	Beryl	Beryl is most commonly colorless but when it occurs with color they are among the most treasured gemstones including morganite, emerald and aquamarine. The stone commonly referred to as beryl is a golden yellow. Beryl lore suggests the gemstone protects against evil and keeps travelers safe. It is also said the gem encourages cheerfulness love.
	Sagittarius	Topaz	Light Topaz Smoke Topaz Colorado Topaz (Swarovski) Blue Topaz Topaz	Yellow topaz and blue topaz are beautiful, serene gemstones. Topaz lore suggests the gem can heal both physical and mental disorders, as well as prevent death. It is also believed to be a powerful amulet to protect one from injury.
	Capricorn	Ruby	Ruby Light Siam Fuchsia	Ruby usually occurs in a beautiful shade of deep fuchsia pink, not the true red with which they are often erroneously associated. Ruby lore suggests the gemstone protects one from misfortune and ill-health, and can bring reconcilliation to lover's quarrels. The ruby symbolizes success, devotion and integrity. Ruby appears as accent stones in engagement rings more often than any other colored gem and have traditionally been a symbol of passion and a promise of the heart.
	Aquarius	Garnet	Garnet Siam	Garnet is a sultry and beautiful gem. Garnet lore suggests the gemstone brings love, encourages compassion and enhances imagination.
	Pisces	Amethyst	Amethyst Cardinal (Swarovski) Royal Purple	Amethyst is the most beautiful form of quartz, appearing in a wide range of hues from the palest lilac to the deepest royal purple. Amethyst lore suggests the gem, which is the birthstone for the month of February, to be an aid in meditation and has calming as well as protective qualities. It is also said to contribute to healing, love, inspiration, intuition and sobriety.

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Anniversary Gemstones by Anniversary Year
	Year	Gemstone	Crystal or Gemstone	Gemstone Lore
	1st Anniversary	Mother-of-Pearl	Mother-of-Pearl	Mother-of-pearl is breathtaking in its simple, pearlescent beauty. Mother-of pearl lore suggests the gemstone brings wealth, power and longevity.
	2nd Anniversary	Garnet	Garnet Dark Siam	Garnet is a sultry and beautiful gem. Garnet lore suggests the gemstone brings love, encourages compassion and enhances imagination.
	3rd Anniversary	Moonstone	Moonstone	Moonstone, especially rainbow moonstone, is a simply gorgeous gemstone that almost glows in lovely hues of blues! Moonstone lore suggests the gem is an emotional balancer that helps to minimize the tendency to over-react and provides flexibility in attitudes, as well as relieving stress.
	4th Anniversary	Blue Topaz	Blue Topaz Light Sapphire	Topaz is a beautiful, serene gemstone and can be found in colors ranging from white to yellow to various shades of blue. Topaz lore suggests the gem can heal both physical and mental disorders, as well as prevent death. It is also believed to be a powerful amulet to protect one from injury.
	5th Anniversary	Rose Quartz	Rose Quartz Light Rose Rose	Rose quartz is a lovely, feminine gemstone. Rose quartz lore suggests the stone increases fertility, helps clear stored anger, guilt, and jealousy, as well as reduces stress and tension while enhancing self-confidence and creativity.
	6th Anniversary	Amethyst	Amethyst Cardinal (Swarovski)	Amethyst is the most beautiful form of quartz, appearing in a wide range of hues from the palest lilac to the deepest royal purple. Amethyst lore suggests the gem, which is the birthstone for the month of February, to be an aid in meditation and has calming as well as protective qualities. It is also said to contribute to healing, love, inspiration, intuition and sobriety.
	7th Anniversary	Onyx	Onyx Jet	Onyx is a mysterious and beautiful gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. The gem occurs naturally in many colors but is best known as black. Onyx lore suggests the gem increases happiness, intuition, and instincts while helping to break bad habits.
	8th Anniversary	Tourmaline	Tourmaline Turmaline (Swarovski)	Tourmaline is a popular gemstone that occurs in a huge variety of colors from deep greens rosy pink hues. Tourmaline lore suggests the gem promotes female balance and protection while helping to dispell fears, calm nerves and encourage tranquil and recuperative sleep.
	9th Anniversary	Lapis Lazuli	Lapis Lazuli	Lapis lazuli is one of the most coveted of opaque semiprecious gems. The gemstone occurs in blues that range from faded denim to deep navy. Lapis Lazuli lore suggests the stone releases tension and anxiety and increases mental clarity, including creative expression.
	10th Anniversary	Crystal	Crystal Aurora Borealis Rock Crystal	Swarovski® crystal has been manufactured in the Austrian Alps since the late 19th century and is considered an exercise in technical perfection. The building in which it is manufactured is heavily guarded to protect the company's trade secrets. Clear as spring water and entirely free of internal flaws, Swarovski is considered the finest crystal in the world and is characterized by razor-sharp facets, outstanding clarity, rich saturated colors and spectacular prismatic brilliance. Swarovski crystal has been incorporated into the creations of the the world's most notable fashion designers including Chanel, Schiaparelli, Armani, Versace and Lacroix.
	11th Anniversary	Turquoise	Turquoise	Turquoise, which occurs naturally in hues that range from yellow to green to aqua blue and is dyed in an even wider range of colors, has been treasured as a gemstone for centuries. Sleeping Beauty turquoise, mined only from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, is among the most beautiful and treasured turquoise in the world. Turquoise lore suggests the gem strengthens the body and enhances creative expression, peace of mind, emotional balance, communication, friendship and loyalty.
	12th Anniversary	Jade	Green Jade Lavender Jade Lilac Jade Yellow Jade Red Jade Aqua Jade Coral Jade Black Jade White Jade	Jade naturally occurs in many colors, is most treasured in green, and is dyed in an even wider range of hues. The beauty of jade is unsurpassed in opaque gemstones. Jade lore suggests the gem increases longevity and fertility, and brings balance to emotions.
	13th Anniversary	Citrine	Citrine Jonquil	Citrine is a sunny quartz gemstone that comes in a wide variety of yellow, orange and warm brown tones. Citrine lore suggests the gem promotes creativity, personal clarity and helps to eliminate self-destructive tendencies.
	14th Anniversary	Opal	Opal White Opal (Swarovski)	Opal is a stunning gemstone that glows with firey colors from witin. Opal lore suggests the gem clarifies one's emotions and desires. The stone symbolizes hope and purity, and has traditionally been used as a good luck charm or talisman. Opals were even used to detect the presence of poison at one time. They are also said to eliminate nightmares, enhance power and attract fortune.
	15th Anniversary	Alexandrite	Alexandrite	Alexandrite is coveted for its color-changing attribute and is among the rarest and most valuable of all gemstones. Alexandrite lore suggests the gem's strongest aspect is one of healing. It is thought to bring balance and calmness to the mind. Alexandrite is also thought to help one overcome lack of confidence, low self-esteem, and to encourage direction and focus in life.
	16th Anniversary	Peridot	Peridot Chrysolite (Swarovski)	Peridot, a breathtaking lime or olive green gemstone, is the birthstone for the month of August. Peridot lore suggests the gem helps to make dreams a reality, and is the a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Legend has it that pirates used peridot to guard them against evil.
	17th Anniversary	Carnelian	Carnelian	Carnelian is an elegant form of chalcedony that occurs in shades ranging from sienna to deep red. Carnelian lore suggests the stone enhances attunement with the inner self and improves concentration.
	18th Anniversary	Tigereye Chrysoprase	Tigereye Chrysoprase	Tigereye, also known as cat's eye, is mesmerizing with its hypnotizing swirls of satiny browns and golds. Tigereye lore suggests the gem balances the emotions and enhances power and will while softening stubbornness and increasing perception and insight. Chrysoprase is an extremely valuable semiprecious gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. The optimum color is somewhere between a jade and seafoam, but the gem is breathtaking in all its variations of beautifully translucent green. Chrysoprase lore suggests the stone brings happiness and prudence as well as bringing balance to physical, mental and emotional well-being.
	19th Anniversary	Aquamarine	Aquamarine Light Azore (Swarovski) Light Sapphire	Aquamarine naturally occurs in hues from deep aqua blue to almost white. At one point in history the gemstone was believed to be the gift of mermaids. Aquamarine lore suggests the stone aids in clearing one's mind and enables intellect and self-expression; encourages compassion, love and tolerance; and increases coourage.
	20th Anniversary	Emerald	Emerald Erinite (Swarovski) Olivine	Emeralds have been coveted as gemstones for centuries, so coveted that few viable emerald mines remain today and newly-mined emeralds of high quality are extremely rare. Emerald lore suggests the gem preserves chastity, protects one from evil spirits, bestows eloquence and intelligence, and encourages romance.
	21st Anniversary	Iolite	Iolite	Ioliteis a gorgeous stone that changes color from deep blue, to violet purple, to almost clear when viewed from different angles. Because of this phenomenon it is also known as water sapphire. Iolite lore suggests the gem enhances curiosity and aids in meditation, as well assisting in detoxification, maintaining sobriety and helping to build relationships.
	22nd Anniversary	Zircon	Blue Zircon	Blue zircon is a beautiful transparent blue gem. Zircon lore suggests the gemstone brings prosperity, maintains one's honor, encourages wisdom and brings restful sleep.
	23rd Anniversary	Yellow Topaz	Light Topaz Smoke Topaz Colorado Topaz (Swarovski) Topaz	Topaz is a beautiful, serene gemstone and can be found in colors ranging from white to yellow to various shades of blue. Topaz lore suggests the gem can heal both physical and mental disorders, as well as prevent death. It is also believed to be a powerful amulet to protect one from injury.
	24th Anniversary	Tanzanite	Tanzanite	Tanzanite is a stunning gemstone that ranges from periwinkle blue to deep lilac purple, and can even occur with an occassional flash of green. Tanzanite lore suggests the gemstone has calming properties and helps to keep one organized and productive. It is also believed that tanzanite can help one overcome misfortune and protects travelers from danger.
	25th Anniversary	Sterling Silver	Sterling Silver	Sterling silver is a precious metal commonly used in jewelry. It has the highest light refraction rate of any of the white metals. Sterling silver is marked with a stamp validating it as .975 percent pure silver. The more expensive fine silver is .999 percent pure.
	30th Anniversary	Pearl	Pearl	Cultured pearls are the most elegant of all gemstones. Though they occur naturally in several colors, they are often dyed in a rainbow of beautiful hues. Pearl lore suggests the gemstones strengthen the mind, help control anger and improve memory. They are said to have a calming and peaceful effect, and encourage feelings of compassion and love. They are also believed to enable the wearer to look within.
	35th Anniversary	Emerald	Emerald	Emeralds have been coveted as gemstones for centuries, so coveted that few viable emerald mines remain today and newly-mined emeralds of high quality are extremely rare. Emerald lore suggests the gem preserves chastity, protects one from evil spirits, bestows eloquence and intelligence, and encourages romance.
	40th Anniversary	Ruby	Ruby Light Siam Fuchsia	Ruby usually occurs in a beautiful shade of deep fuchsia pink, not the true red with which they are often erroneously associated. Ruby lore suggests the gemstone protects one from misfortune and ill-health, and can bring reconcilliation to lover's quarrels. The ruby symbolizes success, devotion and integrity. Ruby appears as accent stones in engagement rings more often than any other colored gem and have traditionally been a symbol of passion and a promise of the heart.
	45th Anniversary	Sapphire	Sapphire Dark Sapphire	Sapphire naturally occurs in almost all the colors of the rainbow but is most commonly associated with shades of blue that range from periwinkle to deep, almost black, navy blue. Coveted for centuries as a gemstone, sapphire lore suggests the gemstone encourages chastity, imparts wisdom and truth and enhances perception. It is also said to help maintain peace of mind and serenity. Sapphires are also associated with romance, fidelity and undying devotion.
	50th Anniversary	Gold	Gold Vermeil	Gold is the most coveted of precious metals used in jewelry. While yellow gold is the most popular color of gold, different minerals are often added to gold to create white gold, rose gold, green gold, brown gold and even black gold. The gold used in jewelry is most commonly 14kt. or 18kt. Pure gold is 24kt.
	60th Anniversary	Diamond	Crystal Aurora Borealis	Diamonds. The most coveted of all precious gems, the word "diamond" originates from the Greek word "adamas," which means "invincible" - a perfectly fitting name for the hardest of all gemstones. Diamond lore suggests the gem encourages courage and strength, that the stone offers protection, and it is of course associated with romance. It is said that bad luck comes to those who steal diamonds. Throughout history man has always had a romantic view of diamonds. The Greeks considered them to be the tears of the gods, while the ever-romantic Romans thought them to have splintered from falling stars. Cubic zirconia became the most popular choice as a substitution for diamond when a Russian scientist found a way to create it in a laboratory in the 1970s. Made through a complicated process, this radiant crystal is created by combining zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which is heated to almost 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit and then carefully cooled in order to create flawless, superbly sparkling crystals. The result is a stone that is durable, brilliant and absolutely beautiful. Cubic Zirconia actually weighs 75% more than diamonds of the same weight, and registers a hardness of 8.5 of the Mohs scale, making it harder than most gemstones and only 1.5 points softer than genuine diamond (the hardest of all stones). Moissanite is almost as hard, and actually has an amazing 2.4 times more fire and 10% more brilliance than natural diamond. Lab created moissanite is quickly becoming the most desired stone to replace natural diamonds. Moissanite does occur naturally but as natural moissanite is only found in certain types of meteor craters, it is extremely rare (much rarer than diamonds) and only found in tiny quantities. A truly stunning gemstone, moissanite is by no means inexpensive but remains much more affordable than natural diamond.