Canada 2011 Birthstones

Thanks to the Mint's new Birthstone series of fine silver coins, the birth of a new child, the birthday of a special loved one, or your own birth month can be commemorated with a breathtaking new crystal-enhanced collector coin. Twelve different versions of this 99.99% pure silver coin are available, each featuring a gem-coloured Swarovski Element crystal centred on the reverse and surrounded by twelve radiating petals. Each colour corresponds to the birthstone which has held special personal and astrological meaning since the early days of human civilization. This elegant and meaningful collectible or gift idea is being produced on demand and retails for $64.95 CAD.

From ancient Babylon to early Japan, gemstones have been cherished for their stunning beauty and special qualities. Cultures everywhere believed crystals had the power to influence events; to protect or
heal; to bring love, luck or prosperity.

No wonder kings and queens adorned their crowns with jewels while emperors and nobles put their special rank on display by incorporating gemstones into everything from jewellery to clothing and eating utensils.
Centuries ago, astrologers began relating gemstones to specific zodiacs citing that a stone's powers were heightened during that time. The daily practice of wearing the gemstone associated with one's birthmonth emerged in 18th-century Poland; a concept that remains a source of great fascination to this day!

Highlights:
This exciting new series of pure silver coins provides the perfect setting to showcase gem-inspired Swarovski elements—one for every birthstone of the year. Each coin is a unique keepsake to celebrate a person's individuality, crafted in the Mint's world-renowned tradition of excellence.

Coin design:
A Swarovski element glitters from a whirl of flower petals

January: Garnet (Constancy, Loyalty)

February: Amethyst (Sincerity, Peace)

March: Aquamarine (Courage, Health)

April: Diamond (Innocence, Love)

May: Emerald (Happiness, Fertility)

June: Alexandrite (Balance, Joy)

July: Ruby (Nobility, Beauty)

August: Peridot (Felicity, Protection)

September: Sapphire (Wisdom, Calmness)

October: Tourmaline (Balance, Endurance)

November: Topaz (Friendship, Strength)

December: Zircon (Wisdom, Wealth)