Precious and semi-precious gemstones have always exerted a powerful tug on the human imagination, right from the great ancient civilisations of the world till the present times. Each gemstone was more than just a beautiful coloured stone. It was also believed to possess mystical and healing properties that directly affected the human mind, body and emotions.
Over time, these gemstones also came to be associated with yet another powerful and enduring social institution - marriage. Since, these precious and semiprecious stones had such a strong influence on one's life, they made ideal gifts as jewellery as well. The idea was carried further and each anniversary gradually became associated with a particular gemstone.
Here is a detailed look at these gemstones from the 6th to the 10th anniversary years.
6th Anniversary Gemstones - Garnet and Amethyst
Garnets have been in use as gemstones since the Bronze Age. It bears a striking resemblance to the pomegranate seed which is why it was named as garnet (Latin 'garatnus' for 'seed'). It ranges in colour from transparent dark-red to a vibrant green. The gemstone garnet has come to symbolise eternal friendship and trust. It is also a stone of purity and truth, love and compassion.
Garnets are considered highly beneficial for treating blood disorders and for increasing energy and vitality. It is also a powerful cure for depression. Garnets are recommended for those who wish to attain success in their business.
Amethyst is a beautiful crystalline quartz in arresting shades of purple, lilac or mauve. The Greeks believed that wearing a topaz would help the wearer not to get intoxicated. Topaz was also valued by the ancient Egyptians who used it to ward off against negative feelings.
Since ancient times, amethyst has been a symbol of humility, sincerity and spiritual wisdom.
The amethyst supposed to be the gemstone of good luck and love. It is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and gives the wearer control over undesirable passions.
7th Anniversary Gemstones - Onyx and Lapis Lazuli
Onyx -- The name onyx is derived from the Greek word for 'veined gem'. Roman soldiers often wore talismans made of onyx or sardonyx (its close variant) which were engraved with their favourite heroes such as Hercules or Mars.
Onyx symbolises eloquence and makes for an appropriate 7th year gemstone - after all, communication is the key to a good marriage, right? Particularly for tackling the myths surrounding the infamous seven-year-itch!
Endowed with magical powers, the onyx is said to act as a shield the wearer from any negativity that is directed towards them. It was highly recommended for those who were given to emotional excesses as this stone is believed to help in keeping passions under control.
Lapis lazuli is an ancient semi-precious stone in an intense blue colour that was highly prized by the Babylonian and Egyptian royalty. The lapis lazuli stone scarab has been discovered in Egyptian tombs as the ancient Egyptians believed that burying the lapis lazuli with the dead would offer the latter protection in the after-life.
Lapis Lazuli is said to symbolise regeneration, truth and heaven.
This semi-precious gemstone is supposed to dispel negative feelings and cure depression.
8th Anniversary Gemstones - Multi-coloured Tourmaline and Aventurine
Multi-coloured Tourmaline is perhaps one of the most colourful and spectacular crystals among gemstones, tourmalines are also great conductors of energy.
The multi-coloured tourmaline signifies artistic intuition.
Wearing a multi-coloured tourmaline is said to be beneficial for the heart, endocrine system, sleep and digestion. Its vibrations restore balance in relationships.
Aventurine is a derivative of quartz, aventurine is a semi-translucent (and sometimes opaque) stone that comes in silvery, yellow, reddish brown, greenish-brown, bluish green and orange colours as well. The name of this gemstone is derived from Italian word for 'by chance' - 'per aventura'.
Not surprisingly, aventurine is hailed as the gemstone stone of good luck or chance and is worn for attracting opportunity.
Wearing an aventurine is also said to increase the confidence levels of the wearer and relieve anxiety and fear.
9th Anniversary Gemstones - Tiger's Eye and Lapis Lazuli
Tiger's Eye - Tiger's Eye is an aptly named gemstone because its rich golden yellow colour resembles the glitter of a tiger's eye. It was popular with the ancient Roman soldiers who wore Tiger's eye amulets and talismans for protection during battles.
Tiger's Eye signifies confidence, protection and good luck. Since ancient times, it has been used in good luck charms and in jewellery as protection against witchcraft and the evil eye. It is said to help achieve clarity in perception and relationships. Wearing Tiger's Eye helps reduce high blood pressure and benefits rheumatic heart disease.
Lapis lazuli is an ancient semi-precious stone in an intense blue colour that was highly prized by the Babylonian and Egyptian royalty. The lapis lazuli stone scarab has been discovered in Egyptian tombs as the ancient Egyptians believed that burying the lapis lazuli with the dead would offer the latter protection in the after-life.
Lapis Lazuli is said to symbolise regeneration, truth and heaven.
This semi-precious gemstone is supposed to dispel negative feelings and cure depression.
10th Anniversary Gemstone - Black Onyx
Black onyx - Belonging to the onyx family, the Black onyx is the most common variety of this gemstone.
Black onyx is said to symbolise protection against negativity.
Black onyx is said to be endowed with enough power to ward off any negativity that is directed towards its wearer. In addition, black onyx is also believed to help in getting rid of old worries and habits.
Since the black onyx was believed to restrain passion and bestow spiritual strength, it figured predominantly in rosaries and worship beads in ancient India and the East.
So when it comes to believing in the powers of gemstones, irrespective of whether you are a sceptic or a die-hard supporter, make sure your better half is given jewellery that accurately reflects the gemstone for that particular anniversary year. She will be the envy of all her friends!
