The tradition of a push present—a gift given to a mother following childbirth—is a relatively modern custom that has gained significant cultural traction in recent decades. While the practice itself is not ancient, the jewelry chosen for such a gift often carries deep personal and symbolic meaning, frequently incorporating gemstones. Among the most popular choices for these sentimental pieces are birthstone necklaces, which allow for a personalized connection to the child's month of birth. This article explores the concept of the push present, its connection to birthstone jewelry, and the gemological and cultural considerations that make these necklaces a cherished part of modern motherhood.
The Rise of the Push Present
The push present is a gift, typically from the partner or family, offered to a new mother shortly after she has given birth. The term itself is a colloquialism, and its origins are not deeply rooted in historical tradition but rather in contemporary consumer culture. While the provided sources do not specify a definitive date for the emergence of the practice, they indicate that it has become a recognized phenomenon in Western societies, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. The gift is intended to acknowledge the mother's physical and emotional journey through pregnancy and childbirth.
Jewelry, particularly necklaces, is one of the most common forms of a push present. A necklace offers a wearable, enduring symbol that can be kept close to the heart. When a birthstone is incorporated into the design, the piece becomes doubly significant, representing both the mother and the child. The choice of a specific gemstone—often the child's birth month stone—transforms a beautiful piece of jewelry into a personal talisman and a lasting family heirloom.
The Cultural and Symbolic Significance of Birthstone Necklaces
While the push present is a modern custom, the use of gemstones as symbols of identity and protection is an ancient practice. Birthstones, in particular, have a long and varied history, with different cultures assigning specific gems to months based on astrological, biblical, or historical records. The modern list of birthstones is largely standardized, but the assignment of a stone to a specific month can vary slightly between traditional and contemporary lists.
For a push present, a birthstone necklace serves as a direct link between the mother and the newborn. The gemstone acts as a physical representation of the child's identity. For instance, a mother receiving a necklace with a garnet (the traditional birthstone for January) or a sapphire (for September) is not just receiving a piece of jewelry; she is receiving a symbol of her child's place in the calendar of the year and, by extension, in the family's history.
The symbolism extends beyond the month of birth. Many gemstones are believed to carry specific metaphysical properties. For example, some sources suggest that garnets are associated with protection and vitality, while sapphires are linked to wisdom and peace. While these beliefs are not universally accepted in formal gemology, they add a layer of personal meaning for many recipients. The act of gifting a birthstone necklace for a push present is therefore an act of imbuing the jewelry with intention and love.
Gemological Considerations for Birthstone Necklaces
When selecting a birthstone necklace as a push present, understanding the gemological properties of the chosen stone is crucial for both its longevity and the recipient's enjoyment. The durability, color, and clarity of the gemstone will influence the design and care of the necklace.
Durability and Wearability: A necklace, especially one worn daily, must be durable enough to withstand regular wear. The hardness of a gemstone, measured on the Mohs scale, is a key factor. Softer stones (below 7 on the Mohs scale) may be susceptible to scratches and abrasions from daily activities. For example, while opals (October's birthstone) are beautiful, they are relatively soft and require careful handling. Conversely, harder stones like diamonds (April), sapphires (September), and rubies (July) are exceptionally durable and are excellent choices for pieces intended for lifelong wear.
Color and Clarity: The color of the birthstone is its most defining characteristic and a primary reason for its selection. For instance, the vibrant green of an emerald (May) or the deep blue of a sapphire can make a stunning centerpiece for a necklace. Clarity, or the presence of internal inclusions, varies by stone type. Some gemstones, like emeralds, are almost always included, and these inclusions are considered part of their character. Others, like topaz (November) or citrine (also November), can be found in very clean, transparent forms.
Cut and Carat Weight: The cut of the gemstone affects its brilliance and how light interacts with it. For a necklace, a round brilliant cut is a classic choice for maximizing sparkle, but other cuts like oval, pear, or cushion can offer a more unique and personal look. Carat weight refers to the size of the stone. For a push present, the size is often chosen to balance visual impact with budget. A smaller, high-quality stone can be more valuable and beautiful than a larger, lower-quality one.
Popular Birthstones for Push Presents
While any birthstone can be chosen, some months have gemstones that are particularly popular for jewelry due to their beauty, durability, and symbolism.
- January: Garnet. Typically a deep, rich red, garnet symbolizes protection and is believed to bring peace and prosperity. Its durability (Mohs hardness of 7-7.5) makes it a practical choice for everyday wear.
- April: Diamond. The classic symbol of enduring love and strength. As the hardest natural material (Mohs hardness of 10), a diamond necklace is virtually scratch-resistant and will last a lifetime.
- May: Emerald. Known for its captivating green, emerald is associated with rebirth and fertility—themes that resonate powerfully with new motherhood. However, emeralds (Mohs hardness 7.5-8) often have inclusions and require careful handling to avoid sharp blows.
- September: Sapphire. While most famous in blue, sapphires come in a rainbow of colors. They are exceptionally durable (Mohs hardness 9) and symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility.
- October: Opal. Valued for its unique play-of-color, opal is a soft stone (Mohs hardness 5.5-6.5) best suited for pieces that are worn with care, such as an evening necklace.
- December: Turquoise. This opaque, sky-blue to greenish-blue stone has been prized for millennia. It is relatively soft (Mohs hardness 5-6) and is often stabilized for jewelry use. Turquoise is widely believed to be a protective stone.
Designing and Caring for a Birthstone Necklace
The design of a push present necklace can range from a simple solitaire pendant to a more elaborate piece incorporating the mother's and child's birthstones together. A common design is a pendant featuring the child's birthstone, sometimes accented with the mother's birthstone or a diamond. Another popular option is a necklace with a small charm for each child, allowing the piece to grow with the family.
Care Instructions: Proper care ensures the necklace remains beautiful for generations. The general rule is to remove jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to chemicals (like cleaning products or lotions), impacts, or extreme temperatures. Cleaning methods vary by stone: * Harder stones (diamonds, sapphires, rubies): Can be cleaned with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. * Softer or porous stones (opals, pearls, turquoise): Should be wiped clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as they can damage these delicate gems.
Storing the necklace separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box will prevent scratches from other pieces.
Conclusion
The push present birthstone necklace is a beautiful synthesis of a modern custom and an ancient tradition. It represents a tangible expression of love, celebration, and the profound bond formed during childbirth. By selecting a gemstone based on the child's birth month, the gift becomes a personalized heirloom, rich with symbolic meaning and personal history. Understanding the gemological properties of the chosen stone—from its hardness and color to its care requirements—ensures that this special piece of jewelry will be cherished and worn for a lifetime, serving as a constant reminder of a child's arrival and a mother's strength.