As the year draws to a close, many people embrace symbols of luck, protection and fresh beginnings. Throughout history, gemstones have played a powerful role in New Year traditions — believed to attract good fortune, guide new ventures and protect the wearer as they step into the months ahead. From ancient civilisations to Victorian jewellery lovers, these “lucky gems” have stood the test of time.
Whether you’re choosing a meaningful piece for yourself or gifting someone special, these are the gemstones long associated with luck, prosperity and positive energy — beautifully preserved today in antique and vintage rings.
Turquoise: Protection and Good Fortune
One of the oldest known good-luck stones, turquoise has been worn for protection for over 7,000 years. Ancient Persians believed it guarded travellers; Victorians exchanged turquoise rings as tokens of faithful love and safety.
- Symbolism: protection, loyalty, safe journeys
- Why for New Year: encourages stability and shields against misfortune
Its vibrant blue hue also makes it a cherished December birthstone, offering a sense of peace and renewal moving into January.
Garnet: Strength, Success and Safe Adventures
Garnet has been a symbol of strength and success since antiquity. Medieval travellers carried garnet for protection, and Victorians wore it for courage and devotion.
- Symbolism: resilience, success, vitality
- Why for New Year: supports ambition, confidence and new challenges
Garnet’s fiery red colour echoes winter warmth — a beautiful gem to carry into a new beginning.
Citrine: Prosperity and Positive Energy
Citrine, often called the “merchant’s stone,” has long been associated with prosperity and abundance. Both ancient Greeks and Edwardian jewellers admired citrine for its sunny, uplifting energy.
- Symbolism: wealth, creativity, success
- Why for New Year: believed to attract financial luck and fresh opportunities
Citrine was a favourite in mid-century jewellery and remains a joyful choice for those seeking optimism in the year ahead.
Peridot: Renewal and Good Health
Known as the “gem of the sun” in medieval lapidaries, peridot was believed to drive away darkness, fear and negative emotions.
- Symbolism: health, renewal, emotional clarity
- Why for New Year: ideal for setting fresh intentions
Georgian jewellers adored peridot for its glowing green colour — especially set against warm antique gold.
Spinel: Good Luck in New Endeavours
Often confused with ruby in ancient times, spinel was treasured for its bright colours and believed to support determination and success.
- Symbolism: motivation, resilience, confidence
- Why for New Year: excellent for new jobs, plans or phases of life
Antique spinel rings, especially in pink and red tones, remain wonderfully vibrant and full of character.
Pearl: Harmony and New Beginnings
Pearls were valued by the Victorians for their gentle symbolism — representing purity of intention and heartfelt emotion.
- Symbolism: balance, peace, new beginnings
- Why for New Year: perfect for those seeking calm and emotional clarity
Pearls were often given as keepsakes during winter festivities, symbolising the “fresh start” of the year ahead.
Diamond: Strength, Success and Enduring Luck
Long before diamonds became engagement staples, they were worn as talismans. Ancient cultures believed diamonds carried divine protection and enhanced inner strength.
- Symbolism: courage, success, long-term prosperity
- Why for New Year: encourages clarity and determination
Many antique diamond cuts — old mine, old European, and transitional — were especially prized for their symbolic power as well as their beauty.
Choosing Your Lucky Gemstone for the New Year
Whether you’re drawn to turquoise for protection, garnet for strength or pearl for emotional balance, choosing a gemstone with historic symbolism adds meaning to the months ahead.
A piece of antique or vintage jewellery carries not just the stone’s symbolism, but the stories and craftsmanship of generations past — a truly special way to welcome the new year.
Explore our collection of antique and vintage rings to discover a lucky gem that resonates with your own hopes for the year ahead.