Birthstones are gems associated with each month that are personal and meaningful. They have a rich cultural history and represent who we are. Each birthstone has a meaning and history. For example, the garnet represents trust and friendship. It gets its name from the Latin word for pomegranate seed because of its similar appearance. Other birthstones mentioned include amethyst, aquamarine, diamond, emerald, alexandrite, ruby, peridot, sapphire, opal, topaz, and turquoise. Their meanings range from love to wisdom to protection, and their histories involve uses in ancient times and associations with figures like Venus and Alexander the Great.