Properties of Stones
Amethyst is a quartz. It's beautiful color is actually due to the 'impurities' of mineral deposits in the stone. Since ancient Egyptian times, the color purple and this gem, have been associated with royalty. They were worn by the Pharaohs, Catherine the Great and are one of the British Crown Jewels.
The name is derived from the Greek word 'amethustos' meaning 'not drunk or intoxicating' and it's history is tied to sobriety, piety and protection. It has come to be regarded as a stone to bring tranquillity, calm, peace and harmony.
The stone is now considered February's birthstone.
Carnelian:
Carnelian is known for it's spiritual and healing powers. The Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian cultures have all revered this stone, using it for signet rings, adornment and amulets.
The name comes from the Latin word "carne" meaning "flesh", most likely a reference to skin tone. The stone is said to enhance past life recall as well as reinforcing awareness of future goals and is associated with female reproduction, enhancing fertility and alleviating impotence. In our recent past, it has been used as a 'good luck' charm, thought to provide protection, comfort and courage - the very same reasons the ancient Egyptians used carnelian amulets in their tombs!
Sapphire:
When you think of Sapphires, you usually think 'Blue'. While Blue Sapphires are most famous (and the most expensive!), sapphires are, in fact, available in almost every color but red. Red Sapphires are known as Rubies!
The name Sapphire is from the Latin word "sapphirus" which means "blue". It is said to "bring out the best in you" and "to help make your dreams come true". It is also associated with eye and mental health.
The stone has been popular since ancient times and is now considered September's birthstone.
Tanzanite:
This stone, first discovered in Tanzania in 1967, is one of the few "new" gems. Upon it's discovery, it was embraced and popularized by the New York jewelers Tiffany & Co for it's beauty and novelty.
It's status in the gem world is only strengthened by the fact that it is only found in this one region of Africa! Since it is new to the world, there are no specific healing properties associated with it and it is mostly cherished for it's beautiful color and rarity.
Tourmaline: The name of this stone means "multi-colored" in Cingalese (the language of Ceylon) and this is an accurate description as it is found in a rainbow of colors. Tourmaline is thought to calm nerves, regulate hormones and help promote restful sleep. It is also said to ward off grief, deflect negativity, boost creativity and enhance fertility. And it is beautiful too! Pink Tourmaline is one of October's birthstones.
Turquoise: Turquoise is often associated with the jewelry of the American South West but it has a long and illustrious history dating back to the Pharaohs of Egypt. Ancient Egyptians wore jewelry featuring this stone as early as 4000 BC and Native American and Mexican Indian tribes have been using it since at least 200 BC! While the name refers to the country of "Turkey", the best examples of this stone are found in Persia where the combination of soil and minerals produce gorgeous deep sky-blue and rich green hues. Fine quality (and richly colored) turquoise can also be found in the western United States. The stone was, and still is, believed to bring good health, wealth and happiness to the wearer. Turquoise is currently one of December's birthstones.