(As
to the symbolic relations which obtain between the several months, and
the particular Gem, or Gems, dedicated protectively to each, some doubt
exists with respect to May, and June; July, and August. Thus, certain
authorities give the Agate to May ; and the Emerald to June ; also the
Cornelian to August; and the Onyx to July.)
Another
calendar of the leading Gems as emblematic of the Twelve Apostles, has
gained general acceptance, and is commonly recognised. To Andrew is
dedicated the bright blue Sapphire, as symbolical of his heavenly
faith. To Bartholomew, the Red Cornelian, as signifying his martyrdom.
To James, the White Chalcedony, as indicative of his purity. To
James-the-Less, the Topaz, emblematic of delicacy. To John, the
Emerald, emblematic of his youth, and gentleness. To Matthew, the
Amethyst, emblematic of sobriety. (Matthew was at one time a "
publican, " but he became a sober man, under the leaven of
Christianity.)
