Birthstones: 12 Ways to Bling Out in 2016

The latest in our series sponsored by Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company offers our favorite birthstone jewelry designs for 2016.

Are you ready to start the New Year in style? How about freshening up your jewelry collection with a statement piece that pays homage to your birth month? According to the American Gem Society, birthstones date back to a breastplate worn by Aaron (you know, Moses's brother) that represented the 12 tribes of Israel.

The modern birthstone calendar was established in 1912 (with the addition of Tanzanite for December in 2002) by Jewelers of America and has since become an iconic collection of gems that are also believed by some to hold healing powers when worn during their designated month. Here are some of our favorite designs for the coming year. Tap into your astrological power and look fabulous!

January: Garnet
Deep red in color, garnet's name is believed to be derived from the Latin word for seed ("granate") due to the gemstone's similarity to pomegranate. It is a protective stone as well as a root chakra stone, so if you're looking to manifest courage and tap into your inner strength in 2016, be sure to check out one of these beautiful designs.

Torkkeli Jewellery - Solitaire ring in classic prong setting with an 8mm garnet stone surrounded by 12 diamonds. $1,990

February: Amethyst
Do you need to chill out in the coming year? Amethyst is the "sobriety stone" and known for its calming properties, so if you're trying to kick some compulsive behaviors, consider wearing a pendant close to your heart. The quartz ranges from light violet to a deep purple.

Macy's - Pear-cut amethyst and diamond pendant necklace. $1,400

March: Aquamarine
If you project challenges in the coming year, this stone of courage and fortitude may help ground you for the road ahead. Most often seen in serene shades of pale blue and green, aquamarine can also be found in pink and yellow. A stone known for its association with the sea, its metaphysical powers have been said to calm conflict.

Gemvara - This mirror band (6.5mm wide) in palladium features two stones, but go for the double aquamarine for a powerful statement piece. $1,325

April: Diamond
The hardest natural mineral, diamonds will also melt hearts and are the benchmark by which many establish their personal jewelry collections. It is a symbol of strength and invincibility, but also of everlasting love. And as RuPaul says, "If you don't love yourself, how the hell you gonna love somebody else?" All the more reason to add a diamond to your repertoire in 2016!

Efva Atling - This gorgeous "Shape of a Dream & Stars" pendant necklace offers a unparalleled fluidity that celebrates Atling's superior craftsmanship and creativity. $5,030

May: Emerald
There's a reason why Dorothy followed that yellow brick road to Emerald City. It is a gemstone of manifestation (even if the Wizard is a sham). Be careful what you wish for, because you just may get it when wearing this stone, which also hold properties connected to serenity and inspiration.

Blue Nile - This emerald and diamond double halo pendant is set against white gold for a vibrant, eye-catching design. $6,500

June: Pearl
Whether wild or cultured, a pearl's iridescence is its calling card and can class up just about any look. Alexandrite (named after Russia's Alexander II) is June's other birthstone, but its rarity makes it difficult to come by unless you find a vintage piece. Pearls are considered to have feminine energy, as well as a calming effect.

David Yurman - This starburst pearl necklace in diamonds and gold is a simple, yet elegant statement piece that can be worn on any occasion. $2,200

July: Ruby
Need an energy boost in the new year? Wear a ruby, which is said to have such properties and can help jumpstart many different aspects of your life, from relationships to harnessing your own inner power.

Retro Ruby Cocktail Ring - This vintage cocktail ring has character and heft, featuring 5.75 carats of retro rubies sent against 14-karat yellow gold. $9990

August: Peridot
This summery olive green stone with hints of yellow is a breath of fresh air and is said to carry characteristics of compassion and harmony.

Peridot Fine Jewelry - These horseshoe chain earrings feature peridot briolette, a style common during the Victorian era but equally as stunning today. $190

September: Sapphire
Conjour your creative energies in 2016 with sapphire, the gemstone associated with artistic expression and mental clarity. While most are familiar with blue sapphires, the birthstone can be found in a rainbow of colors.

Ross Simons - This 1980 vintage (yes... the 80s are vintage now, darling!) sapphire, diamond, and ruby lizard pin will slither your style into the new year. $8,471.25

October: Opal
Find your inspiration in opal, which can be found in endless varieties. Considered a water stone, its properties are said to help ease one through life's unexpected challenges. Its energy supports self-worth and self-esteem, so find tap into that positive energy for all that your heart desires.

Johnston Opals - This sterling silver doublet opal bangle features Australian opal. The family-run business has been in operation since 1901. $750

November: Topaz
Harness your power with topaz, which is said to be a healing birthstone for a variety of ailments. It's also said to protect from greed! In addition to topaz, November's other birthstone is citrine, with properties connected to success, and prosperity.

Darby Scott - This chunky, smoky topaz is a whopping 34 carats and set against sterling silver. $1,200

December: Turquoise
This is the month with plenty of options. Beyond turquoise, those seeking a December birthstone can also opt for tanzanite or zircon. But we love the sacred qualities of turquoise, often used in Native American jewelry.

NativeAmericanJewelry.com - This Navajo Sleeping Beauty bracelet feature is handcrafted by M. Spencer 14 stones set against sterling silver. The natural variations ensure that this piece is truly unique. $799.99

Whether you're about to make that special purchase or have already accumulated precious treasures that celebrate your birthstone, make sure they're insured with Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company.