A Brief History of the Birthstone

December 1, 2005

DECEMBER 2005 NEWSLETTER

“If we are peaceful, if we are happy, we can blossom like a flower, and everyone in our family, our entire society, will benefit from our peace.” –Thich Nhat Hanh

We hope you enjoy the new look of our newsletter. We were thinking about the changes the New Year has in store for us and got ahead of ourselves.

NEW “JEWEL”

“Our silver cylinder necklace on a satin cord. Sleek. Sexy.” – ceFor evening or everyday, it is a unique eye catcher. This fashionable and timeless design is from our new CED Studio, Silver Collection. On a black satin cord with a single cylinder or double, it is only $90.

THE CED HOLIDAY WISH LIST

Have you been wanting one of our designs all year? Is there someone we should contact who can help us grant your wish? What – Who – Where – When? Contact us at info@claudiaendlerdesigns.com with details.

CED GIFT CERTIFICATES

Need gift ideas? We have items in stock now. Prices range from $75 – $400 in silver and $295 – $3,000 for gold. For ideas, visit our web site. Still can’t decide? We have gift certificates. Contact us at 800.313.9784.

CED – News & Events

News
Claudia Endler was asked to write an article for the JDPN (Jewelry Designers Professional Network) on fashion trends, shopping and selling jewelry in Los Angeles, which was published in their Fall 2005 Newsletter.

DECEMBER’S FEATURE: A Brief History of the Birthstone

During our research on this topic, we came across several different lists referring to different birthstones. If you are confused, so were we. Not only has the Birthstone list changed through the ages, many stones were not even classified in the ancient cultures. We were surprised to learn that your birthstone depends on which list you are looking at. There are the Mystical, Jewish, Ayurvedic, Traditional and Zodiac lists, as well as the Modern list… And perhaps a few more. The Modern Birthstone list was adopted in 1912.The idea that birthstones possess a certain indefinable, but none-the-less real significance has long been present, and still holds a spell over the minds of all who are gifted with a touch of imagination and romance.Over the centuries, people have worn gemstones for various reasons. It is believed by some that the wearer would be endowed with certain attributes when the stone is worn, or that the stone possesses healing properties. Certain stones have significance to the planets and the zodiac. Still others feel the chemical composition of the gems resonates with the natural vibrations within each person.

Most gem scholars agree that the tradition of birthstones arose from the Breastplate of Aaron: a ceremonial religious garment, set with twelve gemstones that represent the twelve tribes of Israel and also correspond with the twelve signs of the zodiac and the twelve months of the year. “It was square — a span [22 centimeters] long and a span wide — and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it… They were mounted in gold filigree settings. There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.” (Old Testament, New International Version, Exodus, Chapter 39, Verses 9-14).

Christian interpreters of Revelation began to ascribe, to each of these stones, attributes of the twelve apostles. The Hindus may have their own interpretations.

Depending on which perspective you favor, if you were born in December or under the sign of Sagitarius/Capricorn your birthstone could be either: chrysoprase, turquoise, malachite, ruby, lapis lazuli, zircon, amethyst, sapphire, black onyx, agate, garnet, blue topaz�and the latest addition to the Modern List, tanzanite. Today we have many choices, all of which possess their own beauty and marvel.

Resources: www.lovejoyjewelry.com, www.gemstone.org,www.bernardine.com, www.gemwrap.com, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones by George Frederick Kunz.

FROM ONE OF OUR CLIENTS

“I’m totally enjoying my first Endler ring!!!” – Erica K., Consultant

THE WAY OF CHIC:

Remembering the kid in you is chic!

STYLE RECOGNITION

Documentary and fine art photographer, Doug Kim, has teamed up with Susie Arnett for their book Born Yogis. Babies are born yogis and yoginis. At every stage of development, they naturally curl and bend into a variety of asanas that would make a master yogi green with envy. And they are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Whether you are pregnant, practicing yoga or just like kids, it brings out the kid in you! A great holiday gift!!! www.bornyogis.com. Also available on line and at select retail establishments.

NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE

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