Your Birthstone

BY JENNI ELLINGSON NOVEMBER 30, 2009 11:10 PM EST

Many people know their birthstones from western astrology , but do you know the best jewel for you in the Chinese zodiac? In Chinese astrology, each of 12 stones is believed to have certain powers and influences specially matched to bring out your animal sign's natural luck, and balance the uniquely challenging areas of your life. If you're considering adding to your jewelry collection this holiday season, or that of someone you love, you may wish to make your list using the wisdom of Chinese astrology.

RAT: Garnet

Garnet fosters loyalty and passion in your life. Its deep red color is associated with lasting love. Charming Rat is also a relentless thinker, and garnet should ward off melancholy, pessimistic thoughts. Garnets are believed to guard against theft. Thrifty Rat knows, however, this added security should not replace the home alarm system.

OX: Garnet

Aquamarine cultivate peaces of mind for the Ox, whose persevering nature requires both emotional and physical strength. Its pale blue color is reminiscent of tranquil waters, and even land-loving Oxen should emulate the
Chinese fishermen, who carry them for protection against deadly squalls.

TIGER: Sapphire

Sapphire, a stone of guidance, is also referred to as the "third eye." Sapphire boosts the Tiger's ability to concentrate and visualize, and to see what is right and true in the midst of so many temptations. The deep blue stone fortifies the Tiger's position as a natural leader with unshakeable inner confidence. In a Tiger year, wearing sapphire is a lucky move for everyone.

RABBIT: Pearl

Aligned with innocence and purity, the smooth white pearl guards against corruption. Single Rabbits take note! A pearl is worn to help find your soul mate. Before Red Bull, Rabbits adorned themselves in pearls for that extra boost of energy they sometimes need.

DRAGON: Amethyst

Like Dragon itself, amethyst is associated with powerful forces, including intuition, wealth, royalty and spirituality. It enhances psychic ability and is used for meditating as well as warding off destructive addictions. In fact, some wear the purple gem at parties to avoid inebriation. Moderation is slightly more effective, of course, but a strategy that holds little appeal for Dragons.

SNAKE: Opal

Don't be fooled by superstitions that opals are unlucky. Especially for Snake, these mysteriously multicolored stones connote honor, spiritual journeys and the power of the mind. Snakes who are active dreamers should wear opals for more potent visions. Indeed, it is considered the "dream stone", and solicits good advice from spirits during sleep.

HORSE: Topaz

The sparkling, golden-yellow hue of topaz is a source of inspiration. For free-spirited Horse, it channels your inborn originality, imagination and courage into high-flying action and triumph. Topaz should be worn for a helpful advantage when seeking creative solutions to problems that stand between you and your desires.

SHEEP: Emerald

Amorous Sheep's powers of attraction are enhanced by the green emerald. Known for rarity, it's connected with love and money, but also signifies integrity, truth and self-knowledge. Emerald is the gem of the mother goddess. According to legend, it acts as an enchanting truth-serum. Those wearing emeralds find it difficult to lie.

MONKEY: Peridot

Peridot combats the negative energy of envious people. The multi-talented Monkey arouses jealousy in others from time to time, so it's no wonder peridot is her lucky stone. Known as the "ego stone" for its ability to soothe wounded pride and soften rising tempers, the olive green gem is also used in Chinese wedding ceremonies.

ROOSTER: Citrine

Flamboyant Rooster revels in the abundance and intellectual achievement cultivated by citrine. Called the "stone of success", citrine is used by students and teachers to broaden the mind. Because it is affiliated with material wealth, according to tradition, the pale yellow gem should only be given to people with generous hearts!

DOG: Diamond

Diamond. Referred to as the "morality stone", diamonds are believed to enhance fidelity, friendship and virtue. For the Dog, loyal champion of good, it also offers protection against evil and anxiety, and serves as a link to the divine. While diamonds are a Dog's best friend, you won't hear complaints from any sign receiving this gem.

BOAR: Ruby

Peaceable Pig also tends to be popular, and a ruby -- the red "stone of the famous" -- can make even home-loving Pigs well-known far and wide. It symbolizes leadership, good fortune and health, once coveted by emperors to ward off illness. Used in traditional medicine to create body heat, it couldn't hurt to experiment with this unusual quality at home.