Birthstone of the month – January

It’s January already and about time to tell you something about the January birthstone. Or rather birthstones. Do you remember the December birthstone discussion? Well, January is no difference, although one of the birthstones definitely stands out. Which? Let’s see and let’s tackle the various birthstones of January. Shall we?

You already know that gemstones make beautiful birthstones. In this month the garnet is said to be the traditional birthstone. Although it may appear in different colors like green, orange, red or yellow, the color red is most common and probably gave the gemstone its specific name. Besides, the red-colored version is the traditional birthstone of the month January.

This specific color must have been extremely mesmerizing as the garnet is not only considered as the traditional birthstone but also as the modern birthstone. To add to that, it furthermore represents the Ayurvedic birthstone. Amazing, isn’t it?

Moreover, if you were born between January 21st and February 19th and you want to choose your birthstone by signs of zodiac, and naturally your sign is Aquarius, what birthstone do you think will be yours? Well, who would have guessed? It’s the garnet as well.

So why the garnet? What is the symbolism behind it? What does it make stand out? The answer is that the garnet is believed to give you health, perseverance and prosperity. It also symbolizes strength in all aspects of life, including the strength to live through dark nights and possible nightmares.

If you preferred another birthstone this month, would you have another choice? Yes, indeed, there is one more birthstone to choose from. It’s the emerald, the mystical birthstone of January. As you probably know, the color of this gemstone is green. Green is a very restful color, connected with nature. So people wearing this green gemstone are said to be patient. These are people you can easily talk to, who will understand your thoughts and feelings. Besides they appear to have a certain feel for your situation as they somehow are said to be able to foresee happenings in life.

That still isn’t the right birthstone for you? Well, if you are lucky and were born between December 22nd and January 20th, there is still a third option. You may go for the ruby, the birthstone of the Capricorn. Its red color doesn’t only symbolize passion, but also integrity.

Anyway, whatever birthstone you choose, remember that it is always fun to have one. And don’t forget that wearing your birthstone will give you good luck.

Celtic Claddagh Rings – Part II

Now you know what a Claddagh ring looks like and what deeper meaning it signifies. But do you know how to wear it? You think that’s a silly question? Maybe. Maybe not. But now you are curious, aren’t you? So let’s have a closer look and satisfy your curiosity.

As a general remark, you have to know that the way you are wearing a Claddagh ring sends out different messages. It already starts with the hand you have the ring on. Unbelievable, isn’t it?

Let’s start with the left hand. Why? Because it always tells you that the person wearing such a ring is already spoken for. The only difference is how to wear the Claddagh ring. When you see the ring on the left hand ring finger, you will automatically know that the person is seeing someone seriously. And when you then have a closer look at how the person is wearing that ring, you will recognize that the wearer is either engaged or married. How? Well, if the heart faces outwards, it means ‘engaged’, and when the heart faces inwards, towards the person, it means ‘married’.
You already found that confusing? Then wait until you read some more…

You can also wear the Claddagh ring on your right ring finger. And by doing so you will send out other messages. You would like to know which? Then just read on…
When the heart of the ring faces outward, you are free, unattached, single and maybe looking for a new relationship. However, when the heart of the Claddagh ring faces inwards it shows that the person’s heart has already been taken. Sometimes, however, the wearer doesn’t want to be in a relationship at the moment and to express exactly that, they put the ring on in this special manner to keep possible admirers at bay.

So who are these Claddagh rings for? Who should get one of these dazzling rings? Basically, everybody can wear them. Really everybody? Yes, there are even men’s Claddagh rings. They also make lovely gifts for those with an Irish background or lovers of Irish jewelry. Or anybody who loves unusual rings can go for them. Such a Claddagh ring can be given to a friend, a person you are betrothed to, a lover, simply to any person that is special for you.

Claddagh rings are perfect for any occasion, and when looking at stunning engagement ring designs why not take these rings into consideration? Or even better, why not consider them as extraordinary wedding ring designs, especially now that you know the symbolism behind them.

Anyway, whatever you choose, these once original Irish wedding bands will make you, the wearer, even look more beautiful.