Folklore

Articles of weather folklore, flower lore, myths, legends and more from the Farmers’ Almanac.

August Birthstone — Peridot: The Great Space Gem

August Birthstone — Peridot: The Great Space Gem featured image

The August Birthstone is peridot—an enigmatic gemstone! It is often misidentified and mispronounced. Did you know that it falls to Earth in some meteorites? It’s also been found on the Moon! That’s why we call it the “space gem.” The peridot stone is believed to bring happiness and a sense of one’s destiny in life.

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July Birthstone — Ruby

July Birthstone — Ruby featured image

July’s birthstone is the ruby. Its name comes from the Latin word ruber meaning red. But its name in Sanskrit reveals more of its mysterious power and value: ratnaraj, the ruler of jewels. Prized for its distinct beauty and believed protective qualities, it is also thought to increase motivation and connect one with their passion

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June’s Birthstone — Pearl

June’s Birthstone — Pearl featured image

June’s birthstone is the pearl. Its name comes from the Old French word, “perle” which, oddly, is derived from the Latin word for “leg”—as in “leg-of-lamb.” It is believed that this was a reference to the shape of mollusk shells, where pearls form. Interestingly, pearl is the only birthstone that is not mined from the

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Poppy Flower — Facts, Symbolism, And Gardening Tips

Poppy Flower — Facts, Symbolism, And Gardening Tips featured image

Have you ever wondered if the poppy seeds on the bagel you’re eating come from the same poppy flower that produces opium? They actually do, but they have been scrubbed of the milky substance which forms illegal narcotics and therefore are perfectly safe to eat. Don’t be alarmed: The poppy flowers growing in your backyard are a different species! There are 120 varieties of poppies—only one of which you cannot grow in the US. Learn all about poppy flower history, nutrition, folklore, and tips for growing. Read on.

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May Birthstone — Emerald

May Birthstone — Emerald featured image

The traditional May birthstone is emerald. Its name comes from the Greek word for green — a color classically associated with spring and fertility. Likewise, this rare gemstone signifies rebirth, but it also symbolizes: truth, wisdom, and intuition. Learn fascinating facts, folklore, and healing properties believed by ancient cultures around the world! Emerald Folklore Ancient

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April’s Birthstone – Diamond

April’s Birthstone – Diamond featured image

The diamond is April's birthstone. Its name comes from the Greek word, “adamas,” meaning unconquerable and indestructible. What makes it so special? Learn about its legendary hardness, unmatched sparkle, and mysterious folklore. We explain why ancient Egyptians wore diamonds on their ring fingers and other surprising facts about this rare gem. Read on.

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March’s Birthstone – Aquamarine

March’s Birthstone – Aquamarine featured image

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. Its name is Latin for “seawater,” which describes its blue-green color and relates to its ancient oceanic mythology. Coined by the ancient Greeks as “the sailor’s gem,” its presence on a ship was believed to appease the mighty sea god, Poseidon, who in turn would calm rough waters and

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February Birthstone – Amethyst, the Stone of Peace

February Birthstone – Amethyst, the Stone of Peace featured image

February birthstone, amethyst, is associated with Bacchus, the god of wine, yet its name is derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.” This beautiful violet gem has a rich history that spans many ages and cultures. Discover interesting facts, folklore, and famous amethysts from around the world in the following article. Folklore Amethyst was

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