Through the ages stones have had a mysterious, magical history about them that have always fascinated people. Almost any stone or metal is said to have beneficial attributes that supposedly aid the wearer’s healing by shielding against illnesses and spells. Certain stones are also supposed to help the user focus during psychic and clairvoyant activities. The following are a few birthstones and the supposed powers that are attributed to these “magical�?stones.

Garnet �?This spectacular birthstone for January stone has its own gemstone group. It is hard enough for everyday wear. The most commonly seen colors of garnet are the red and the dark red that is almost brown. Unknown to many is the fact that garnets can come in emerald green gold, and orange. Garnet is said to protect its wearer with a shield against negative energy or intentions. It is supposed to enhance the sexual side while promoting love and passion. Garnets are also supposedly good for aiding in the recovery of memories from this lifetime as well as others.

Amethyst �?A type of quartz that comes in varying shades of purple is the birthstone for February. The addition of manganese is the cause of amethyst’s color. When held or worn close to the heart, the amethyst is said to aide in meditation by balancing mental energies.

Aquamarine �?March’s birthstone, like the emerald is beryl. The aquamarine is a hard stone that can range in color from a blue so light it appears clear to tones of bluish-green. The stone is supposedly a great piece for protecting travelers flying or sailing across the water. It is said to be able to guard against storms, have calming affects against phobias, and be an excellent choice to calm the mind for meditation.

Bloodstone �?Another accepted birthstone for March is bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope. Part of the quartz family, it is usually a deep forest green with “blood�?red spots. The red spots or flecks are caused by iron oxide being present. A healing stone that supposedly purifies the body and can give energy to the tired or lethargic. Often thought of as an aide for success in regards to money and legal matters, it also is said to be able to “ground�?the wearer.

Emerald �?The birthstone for the month of May. Emerald is a beautiful member of the Beryl family that is a hard, durable stone. Many believers in the power of stones enjoy wearing their emeralds on a daily basis. The emerald is said to aide in clairvoyance, all types of seeing, while promoting love and success. Emeralds are said to be most affective if worn on a pendant over the heart, worn on the little finger, or as a bracelet on the dominant hand.

Moonstone �?The stone for June is a part of the feldspar group called moonstone. It can come in a variety of colors including white, pink and gray. The moonstone is said to increase the ability of its wearer in the use of runes and tarot cards as well as a “wish�?stone. A stone that brings good fortune, it is recommended for travelers. It also is good for creating mental balance and recommended to be set in silver. It can be used in jewelry and found as beads pr cabochons.

Ruby �?This is the birthstone of July. Ruby is a type of corundum that next to diamond is the hardest of gemstones whose price is often determined by the color and clarity stone. Its power is said to be strongest during a full moon. Ruby supposedly enhances love as well as aide the wearer in attraction and happiness with others while giving courage and contentment.

Peridot �?The birthstone for August is sometimes also known as olivine. An odd colored stone that varies from olive greet to a light, yellow-green. Known to be good for healers, it calms and allows the regenerating of the body. If placed over the chest, it can supposedly release emotional tension.

Sapphire �?September is the month for sapphire. It is another type of corundum that varies in an almost endless number of colors is the sapphire. The most well know colors for sapphires range from light blue to a blue that appears black. These blue colors are caused by iron and titanium in the stone. The most powerful of all sapphires is said to be the star sapphires. They are said to protect against negative energy and thoughts. It has a calming affect that allows the mind to experience peace, joy and clear thinking.

Opal �?Although October’s birthstone can come in varying shades, the most well know is the almost white stone with swirls of iridescent colors running through. Many believe it is bad luck for someone not born in October to wear whereas others feel it is a magical stone good for a variety of things. Said to aide in astral projection and psychic powers, it also gives courage and freedom.

Like so many beliefs, the power of these stones, are hard to prove or disprove. Their beauty will always insure people will wear them as jewelry and if there are truly additional benefits to them, so much the better.