James Avery Birthstones

Centuries ago, in Sanskrit writings, spinel was called the daughter of ruby, adored, yet somehow different. The Crown Jewels of Great Britain are graced with spinels and have resided in the regalia of kingdoms throughout history. Found in Myanmar (Burma) and Sri Lanka, spinel is a durable gemstone that comes in a variety of colors including oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves and vivid reds. Lab-created spinel has been on the market since the 1920's. Spinel ranks 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Learn more about lab-created gemstones.

Diamond - Derived from the Latin diamas meaning the unconquerable, diamond has maintained its position throughout history as a perfect icon for love and marriage. Although white is the most common color, diamonds actually come in a variety of colorful hues. The diamond is the only gemstone to rank 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness.

Beloved for centuries, sapphire comes from the mineral corundum. The ancient Persian rulers believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire and its reflection colored the heavens blue. A gift of a sapphire symbolizes a pledge of trust and loyalty. Sapphire is one of the most durable gemstones and comes in several colors including pink, white, blue and orange. However, they are most noted for their rich blue color. Sapphire ranks 9 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Learn more about lab-created gemstones.

The word “emerald” comes from a Sanskrit word meaning “the green of growing things”. Legends gave emerald the power to make its wearer more intelligent and quick-witted. The first known emerald mines were in Egypt, dating back to over 300 B.C. Cleopatra was known to have a passion for emerald, and the stone was featured in many of her royal adornments. Emerald is the most famous member of the beryl family. Emerald ranks 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Learn more about lab-created gemstones.

Named after Alexander II, Czar of Russia, alexandrite was discovered on this ruler’s birthday in the early 1830’s. Alexandrite is the color changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. It changes from blue-green in daylight or fluorescent light to red-purple in lamp or candlelight. Alexandrite ranks 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Learn more about lab-created gemstones.

Beloved for centuries, sapphire comes from the mineral corundum. The ancient Persian rulers believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire and its reflection colored the heavens blue. A gift of a sapphire symbolizes a pledge of trust and loyalty. Sapphire is one of the most durable gemstones and comes in several colors including pink, white, blue and orange. However, they are most noted for their rich blue color. Sapphire ranks 9 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Learn more about lab-created gemstones.

In the middle ages, zircon was said to aid sleep, bring prosperity, and promote honor and wisdom to those who wear it. Though zircon is available in many colors thanks to a heat enhancement process, it is most often sought in blue, and is famous for its luster and fire. Major sources of zircon are found in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Avoid rough wear since these stones tend to abrade. Zircon ranks 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness.