What are the Most Romantic Gemstones?
Jewels delight us with their mystic appeal. For centuries, we have woven vast bodies of lore around gems. Many are romantic gemstones. Some say these stones may have powers over life and love. Others immortalize them in works of song, literature, and film. Learn about some of the most famous gems below.
Ruby, the King of Gemstones
The color red is universally appealing. In Western traditions, it symbolizes the blood of life, heat, passion, and energy. In the East, it represents luck, happiness, and fertility. It should come as no surprise then that rubies are a signature red gemstone.
Ancient Hindu tradition says that rubies contain an inner fire you cannot extinguish. And what better way to represent pure love than with a ruby?
Traditionally, rubies are the 40th-anniversary gift, perfect for symbolizing a long and happy life together.
Amethyst, the Stone of Saint Valentine
Most are familiar with the lore surrounding amethyst. Many know the myth about preventing drunkenness. What many may not know, however, is that amethyst possesses a deep connection to love and relationships.
Ancient Roman belief says that amethyst gemstones promote harmony in the home. Roman wives would wear jewelry containing this stone to keep their husbands loyal.
In Catholic tradition, amethyst became associated with Saint Valentine, of Valentine’s Day fame. This way, the jewel became associated with lasting and eternal love. In fact, stories persist that the saint wore an amethyst ring engraved with the image of Cupid, Roman God of affection and desire. This may stem from the tradition of the clergy wearing amethyst rings, especially bishops.
Amethyst is the traditional gift for the 17th wedding anniversary.
Moonstone, the Hindu Gem of Lovers
Much of the mystery with moonstone is its association with the Moon. Due to this, we associate moonstone with women and fertility.
Ancient Hindu tradition has special meaning to moonstone gifts shared between lovers. The gem supposedly strengthens their bonds.
Also, moonstone would grant visions of their future together, both good and bad. This ritual would be performed in the light of a full moon, placing these romantic gemstones in their mouths.
Also, moonstone is the traditional gift for the 13th wedding anniversary. As a stone associated with luck, some say it reverses the misfortune associated with the number thirteen.
Emerald, the Lover’s Stone of Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptians considered emeralds to be a gemstone of young lovers, and an appropriate gift for budding relationships. They said the gem heightens feelings of passion, romance, and love. Also, they link the stone with fertility, so it was ideal for new couples starting families.
On the other side, emerald stones give heightened perception, intelligence, and the detection of truth. Many stories explain how emerald would expose infidelity and prove loyalty.
- Ancient Egyptians believed that a wife would remain pure when wearing emerald in the absence of her husband.
- Several European tales tell of emeralds breaking after one partner was unfaithful.
- Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love, was associated with emeralds. The color of the stone would darken or lighten as romantic feelings between partners shifted.
Emerald is also the gift for the 55th wedding anniversary.
Romantic Gemstones for Valentine’s Day
These are just a small selection of romantic gemstones. There are many more, just awaiting discovery. What will you find?
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