Birthstone Archives - Wellington Jewellery Valuations

May birthstone: Emerald

May 13, 2022 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone, Jewellery Care No Comments

The emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant its wearer foresight, good fortune, and youth. The green gemstone has enchanted royalty for millennia, from Egyptian pharaohs to Incan emperors. Nothing greens greener Emerald’s name is derived from the word “smaragdus” which means “green” in Greek. Famed Roman author, Pliny the Elder, wrote [...]

April birthstone: Diamond

March 31, 2022 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone, Jewellery Care No Comments

Many consider diamond the most popular gemstone on earth. The scintillating April birthstone is a symbol of strength and wealth, and has been cherished for millennia. Classic white The most popular diamonds are white and colourless. The April birthstone is traditionally this type of diamond. However, diamonds come in a range of colours including green, [...]

A round-cut Aquamarine gemstone, the March birthstone, is displayed against a dark background. Light reflects off its multiple facets, creating a sparkling effect. The gemstone is positioned centrally and casts a gentle reflection below it.

March birthstone: Aquamarine

March 9, 2022 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

The cool and pale blue birthstone of those born in March, aquamarine, brings to mind fresh seawater. The serene gem has become a symbol for purity, protection, and foresight. Purifying as the sea Aquamarine has long invoked the tranquillity of its namesake, the sea. Of course, the name “aquamarine” is derived from the Latin word [...]

A close-up image of a faceted, teardrop-shaped amethyst gemstone, the February birthstone. The amethyst displays varying shades of purple with a glossy and reflective surface, set against a plain black background.

February birthstone: Amethyst

February 9, 2022 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

February’s birthstone, amethyst, comes in lilac to deep purple hues and can be cut into many shapes and sizes. Found in the collections of royal families throughout Europe and Asia, amethyst is also within reach of most modern consumers. Drunk in love “Amethyst’s name is derived from the Ancient Greek a- (not) and methustos, meaning [...]

An example of the garnet rings WVJ regularly value.

January birthstone: Garnet

January 12, 2022 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Many people think of a red gem when they think of garnet, the birthstone of January, but it is actually available in a rainbow of colours. From the scorching oranges and lush greens of Tsavorite Garnet, to the most widely recognised deep red ‘pyrope’, garnet is considered a symbol of friendship and trust. Fiery-eyed pomegranates [...]

An example of turquoise jewellery that gemologists can repair

December birthstone: Turquoise

December 16, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Brilliant blue-green turquoise is one of three birthstones for December (the others are zircon and tanzanite) and has been cherished for millennia. It is said to represent happiness, honesty, serenity, and creativity. A unique beauty This gemstone’s name was derived from the French expression “pierre tourques,” which translates to “Turkish stone,” because it was first [...]

A topaz ring with white diamond inset into gold..

November birthstone: Topaz

November 13, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Those with November birthdays have two beautiful birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Wonder why November has two birthstones? Read about it here. In this post we’ll focus on the vibrant topaz. Yellow and more The name topaz has two possible origins. One suggestion is that it comes from Topazios, the ancient Greek name [...]

An example of unmounted citrine jewels ready for valuation.

November birthstone: Citrine

November 13, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Those with November birthdays have two beautiful birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Wonder why November has two birthstones? Read about it here. Here, we’re looking at citrine, which for hundreds of years, has been thought to remove negativity - the perfect gemstone for those seeking good vibes only! When life gives you lemons [...]

A collection of jewels; black diamonds and NZ gemstones

The origin of birthstones

October 23, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

The concept of birthstones, gemstones that correspond to a person’s birth month, is a modern creation, with biblical origins. Historians trace its origin back to the Breastplate of Aaron, as described in the Bible. According to the Book of Exodus, the breastplate was a religious garment which boasted 12 unique gemstones representing the 12 tribes [...]

Stunning tourmaline and silver ring ready to be valued by WJV.

October birthstone: Tourmaline

October 4, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

If you were born in October, then one of your birthstones is the intriguing gemstone tourmaline (the other is opal). Tourmaline symbolises a raw and strong connection with nature, encouraging peace, compassion and friendship. Tourmaline’s many colours Tourmaline’s name comes from the Sinhalese word turmali meaning stone of mixed colours. It comes in every colour [...]

May birthstone: Emerald

April birthstone: Diamond

March birthstone: Aquamarine

February birthstone: Amethyst

January birthstone: Garnet

December birthstone: Turquoise

November birthstone: Topaz

November birthstone: Citrine

The origin of birthstones

October birthstone: Tourmaline

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