How We Came to Understand the Meanings Behind Gemstones

For centuries, gemstones have been admired not only for their beauty but also for their believed powers and symbolism. From the vibrant red of garnet, said to inspire confidence and creativity, to the calming hues of amethyst, thought to promote peace and balance, the meanings we associate with gemstones are woven into our cultural and historical fabric. But how did we come to understand these meanings, and why do certain stones carry specific associations?

In this blog, we’ll explore the journey of gemstone symbolism—from ancient beliefs and legends to modern interpretations—and discover how the meanings we attach to these stones have evolved over time.

The Ancient Origins of Gemstone Meanings

Our understanding of gemstones and their meanings is deeply rooted in ancient civilizations. Throughout history, people have assigned mystical properties to gemstones based on their appearance, rarity, and the circumstances of their discovery.

For example, the ancient Egyptians believed that gemstones held powerful energies. They used stones like lapis lazuli and turquoise in their jewellery, tombs, and religious artifacts, associating them with protection, health, and spiritual connection. These early beliefs were often tied to the colours of the stones. Green stones like emeralds were thought to bring fertility and rebirth, while red stones like garnet were linked to vitality, courage, and strength.

In ancient Greece and Rome, gemstones were similarly revered. Amethyst, for instance, was believed to protect against drunkenness, with its name derived from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicated.” Soldiers would wear garnet as a protective talisman in battle, believing it could give them strength and courage.

Cultural Influence on Gemstone Symbolism

Over time, different cultures developed their own interpretations of gemstones, adding layers of meaning that we still associate with them today.

• India: In Hindu culture, gemstones have long been linked to astrology and the belief in planetary influences. Each gemstone was thought to align with specific celestial bodies, and wearing certain stones was believed to balance cosmic energies. This idea gave rise to the concept of birthstones, which is still prevalent today.

• Medieval Europe: During the Middle Ages, gemstones took on religious and spiritual significance. Medieval scholars believed that gemstones had healing powers and could ward off evil spirits. For example, amber was thought to have medicinal properties, while sapphires were associated with purity and divine favour.

• Ancient Egypt: The meanings we associate with emeralds today—such as rebirth, love, and protection—are deeply rooted in ancient history, particularly in ancient Egypt. Emeralds were highly prized for their vivid green color, symbolizing fertility, growth, and eternal life, as the Egyptians believed the gemstone mirrored the vitality of nature. Cleopatra’s famous love for emeralds further reinforced their association with power and protection, as she often wore them and gave them as gifts to solidify political alliances, believing they could safeguard and bring favor. Emeralds were thought to bring harmony and loyalty in relationships, which established their connection to love. These ancient beliefs continue to influence how we view emeralds today, making them enduring symbols of renewal, love, and protection.

The meanings attached to gemstones were passed down through these ancient traditions, often influenced by cultural stories, religious beliefs, and mythological references. Over time, these meanings became intertwined with the physical properties of the gemstones, like their colour, clarity, and rarity.

Colour and Its Role in Gemstone Symbolism

One of the most significant factors in how we understand the meaning of gemstones is colour. Ancient cultures often assigned symbolic meanings to colours, and these associations were naturally extended to the gemstones of those colours. The vibrant red of garnet, for instance, has long been connected to the heart, love, and passion, due to the colour’s connection to fire and life force.

Similarly, the tranquil blue of sapphires has often been linked to peace, wisdom, and loyalty, evoking images of the sky and sea. Green emeralds were symbols of fertility, growth, and rebirth, mirroring the natural world and the cycle of life.

The Evolution of Gemstone Symbolism: Modern Meanings

While many gemstone meanings are based on ancient beliefs, they have also evolved to align with modern values and personal expression. Today, people often choose gemstones not just for their beauty but for the symbolism they wish to incorporate into their lives.

Take garnet as an example. Garnet is said to inspire confidence, energy, and creativity—qualities that we understand today based on centuries of association with its deep red colour, which is linked to vitality and strength. But this modern interpretation is a blend of both ancient beliefs and contemporary thinking, where gemstones are seen as personal tools for empowerment, reflection, and emotional healing.

Modern gemstone meanings are also influenced by the growing interest in holistic healing and energy work. The rise of practices like crystal healing has revived and expanded the belief that gemstones can balance energies, promote wellness, and serve as spiritual aids.

How Science and Metaphysics Intersect

While gemstone meanings are primarily cultural and symbolic, there are some scientific explanations that may offer insight into why we feel drawn to certain stones. For example, colour psychology suggests that colours can have a profound impact on our moods and emotions. Red, the colour of garnet, is often associated with feelings of warmth, passion, and energy. Blue, the colour of sapphire, evokes calm and stability. These associations are reflected in the meanings we assign to gemstones of similar hues.

Additionally, the physical properties of gemstones, such as their hardness, clarity, and ability to refract light, may subconsciously influence how we perceive their energy and meaning. Diamonds, with their exceptional hardness and brilliance, have come to symbolize strength and everlasting love, while the soft, soothing hues of rose quartz are associated with gentleness and emotional healing.

Why Gemstone Meanings Matter Today

Even though we no longer rely on gemstones as talismans or medicinal tools in the way ancient cultures did, their meanings still resonate with us on a personal and emotional level. In modern times, people often choose gemstones based on what they symbolize, using them to express their personalities, mark significant life events, or attract certain energies.

For example:

• Garnet is chosen for its association with confidence and energy, making it a perfect stone for someone starting a new chapter in life.
• Amethyst is valued for its calming properties, often worn by those seeking balance and peace in stressful times.
• Aquamarine, with its pale blue hue, is a symbol of tranquility and is often used in jewellery for its connection to serenity and clarity.

Today, people continue to invest in gemstones not just for their aesthetic appeal but for the deeper meanings they convey, whether rooted in ancient tradition or modern symbolism.

The meanings we associate with gemstones have evolved over centuries, shaped by ancient beliefs, cultural stories, and modern interpretations. Whether you choose a gemstone for its beauty, its symbolism, or both, there’s no denying the timeless connection between gemstones and the qualities they represent. From the fiery energy of garnet to the calming influence of amethyst, each gemstone carries with it a unique story, one that continues to resonate with wearers across generations.

At Canadian Jewellers, we understand the rich history and meaning behind every gemstone we offer. If you’re looking for a piece that reflects both beauty and symbolism, explore our gemstone collection and discover the stone that speaks to you.