Garnet (January) -- Garnet was thought to light up the night and protect owners from nightmares. (Noah used a garnet lantern to navigate the Ark through 40 days and nights of torrential rain.) It was also thought to ward off evil spirits, spark creativity and dispel anger.
Amethyst (February) -- Amethyst was considered by the Greeks and Romans to be a strong antidote against drunkenness. It was also believed to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence, as well as bring peace of mind to the wearer and prevent fatal poisoning.
Aquamarine (March) -- This stone was believed to be the treasure of mermaids with the power to keep sailors safe at sea. Other properties ascribed to the gem include the ability to help couples smooth out their differences; protection against the devil; the ability to quicken the intellect; and the power to attract new friends.
Diamond (April) -- The most precious of all gems has been ascribed with many special powers throughout history, including the power to amplify either good or evil in its wearer; the ability to increase personal clarity to help one see things clearly; and the ability to keep someone straight-forward and honest.
Emerald (May) -- The Romans believed that emeralds had a soothing effect on the soul. Middle Age seers used emeralds to foretell the future and ward off evil spirits. The stone was also said to improve memory and bring great wealth to its wearer.
Pearl (June) -- These treasures from the sea were worn by medieval knights going to battle as a talisman against injury.
Ruby (July) -- This most prized of red stones was implanted by warriors under their skin to make them invincible in battle. It has also been used as a talisman against danger and disaster.
Peridot (August) -- The ancients believed this gem had the power to ward off evil spirits, nightmares and enchantments. It also was said to strengthen any medicine drunk from goblets carved from the stone.
Sapphire (September) -- The ancient Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire that gave its blue reflection to the sky. Sapphire was also considered a powerful talisman that protected travelers. According to tradition, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on tablets of sapphire, making it the most sacred stone.
Opal (October) -- The Arabs thought opal would ward off lightning and render its wearer invisible.
Citrine (November) -- In ancient times, citrine was carried as protection against snake venom and evil thoughts. It was also thought to give calmness and mental balance to its wearer.
Blue Topaz (December) -- Topaz was thought to dispel enchantment, increase one's strength and make its wearer invisible. It could also detect poisoned food or drink; bring friendship; promote patience and a pleasant disposition; and ensure fidelity. Topaz also was thought to ward off sudden death.