Rare Antiquities & Ancient Artifacts

JUNE BIRTHSTONES  Moonstone, Pearl, Alexandrite   PEARLS Pearls are the first birthstone for June. Pearls are organic matters and harvested from mollusks and oysters. The gems are highly valuable and have a long history. Pearls are known as the symbol of purity and innocence and because of this, pearls are often sewn to brides’ gowns …

   EMERALDS      May Birthstone   EMERALD MEANING Traditionally associated with the attributes of fertility, love and rebirth, the emerald was dedicated by the Ancient Romans to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. The striking magnificent lush shade was one of Cleopatra’s favorite gems. Today, emerald meaning represents wisdom, growth and patience.   …

    The March Birthstone AQUAMARINE       Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin for seawater and it was said to calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea. March’s birthstone was also thought to enhance the happiness of marriages which is why it is the gem for the 19th wedding anniversary. The best gems …

  Garnet the January Birthstone Garnet species are found in a rainbow of colors including red (almandine, pyrope and hessonite), orange (spessartine), yellow, green (tsavorite, uvarovite and andradite), purple, brown, blue, black, pink, and colorless, with reddish shades most common. One variety of pyrope from Macon County, North Carolina  is a violet-red shade and has been called rhodolite, often confused with ruby. It is …