February 04, 2010- A birth stone refers to a gemstone that has compatibility with a particular zodiac sign. These stones- one prescribed for each zodiac sign- are popular by different names such as zodiac stones, birth stones, zodiac gemstones, star stone, rashi ratna etc. These gemstones are available in form of semi precious beads that can be used in making zodiac jewelery like rings, necklaces, earrings etc. When worn, these zodiac birthstones are believed to bring good luck for the wearer. They can improve health, confidence, relationships, job status, social standing and finances too. However, wearing a birthstone that does not have zodiac sign compatibility can bring bad luck too. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult an experienced astrologer before going for any zodiac star stone. The birth stones are prescribed according to the birth month of a person but sometimes they are also recommended on the basis of weekday when a person was born.

Indian Vedic Astrology on Birth Stones

Indian Vedic Astrology is a complete planetary science. It believes that the planets and all the stars in the universe give out their own cosmic color. This generates particular energy that radiates through the cosmos. The transmission of these vibrations that are accompanied by the energy-giving properties of heat, magnetism and electricity, influence the life of every living creature. The location of various planets during a person's birth time can be represented as a map through an astrological horoscope. The horoscopes show certain planets that are well positioned and are favorable to the person's life. Some other planets have unfavorable positions and many others give mixed results. The star stones having compatibility with the planetary positions in one's horoscope can strengthen the most positive aspects. These zodiac gemstones can also diminish the bad results and can extract the most favorable experiences from those that may give mixed results.

Birth Gem Stones for Zodiac Signs

The birth gemstones are associated with the months of the Gregorian calendar. A particular gem is associated with each month and is believed to bring luck to the people born in that month.

Birthstones Month	Birth Stone
January	Garnet
February	Amethyst
March	Aquamarine; and Bloodstone
April	Diamond
May	Emerald
June	Pearl, Moonstone and Alexandrite
July	Ruby
August	Peridot and Sardonyx
September	Sapphire
October	Opal
November	Citrine and Yellow Topaz
December	Tanzanite, Blue Topaz and Turquoise

January Birthstone- Garnet Gemstone

People with zodiac sign Aquarius are supposed to wear garnet gemstones. Pure garnet crystals converted into garnet beads are commonly used as gemstones for jewelery. The term "garnet" is derived from the Latin word "granatus," meaning grain or seed. The name justifies garnet gemstone's close resemblance to pomegranate seed. Discovered in Sri Lanka over 2,500 years ago, garnet is also found in Africa, Australia, India, Russia, South America; and in the United States, in Arizona and Idaho. They are commonly known as red gemstone but come in other colors too like muted yellows, vibrant oranges, rosy pinks, lime greens, and violets. Garnet is symbolic of love and the desire for a loved one's safe travel and speedy homecoming.

February Birthstone- Amethyst Gemstone

Amethyst is the Birthstone for people born in the month of February having Pisces as their zodiac sign. Amethyst beads are the purple variety of the mineral quartz. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning sober or "not drunken." It was believed that amethyst keeps one away from the effects of alcohol. However, Greeks might have also meant to refer to the almost wine-like color of Amethyst. Amethyst gemstones have a wide range of purple shades. Purple is, in fact, believed to be the color of royalty as purple dye was scarce and expensive at one time, and so it was reserved for the clothing of kings and queens. Amethyst gemstones are found in Brazil, Canada, Australia, India, Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, Sri Lanka; and in the United States. Symbol of protection, Amethyst strengthens bond in a love relationship. So, it is an ideal anniversary or engagement gem.

March Birthstone- Aquamarine and Bloodstone Gemstones

People born in March having zodiac Aries as their birth sign are bestowed with two birthstones- aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine is derived from "aqua" meaning water and "mare" meaning sea. Aquamarine gemstone resembles the color of seawater, hence the name. Aquamarine beads are obtained from a variety of the mineral called Beryl. Blue Beryl is the Aquamarine and the green Beryl is the emerald. The Romans believed that aquamarine could cure diseases related to digestive system as well as those related to mouth and throat. It was even used as an antidote against poison. Aquamarine ranges in colour from deep blue to a greenish-blue and this gemstone is found in Brazil, Columbia and Russia. In the US, aquamarine gemstone can be found in North Carolina and Maine. Aquamarine is the symbol of both safety and security, especially in long standing relationships and is believed to rekindle love which makes it a perfect anniversary gift!

The other birthstone for people born in March is bloodstone which is dark green stone with red spots. A legend tells that the bloodstone was formed during the crucifixion of Christ. Perhaps, this is why, it is also called "martyr's stone." Bloodstone is found in India, Brazil, Uruguay, Australia, and the United States. Bloodstone symbolizes courage and it is the perfect gift when someone wants to instill hope in friends or family.