My birthstone is ruby, and I love it. But I have more pearls than anything else, and I have to admit, they're my favorites. The pearl is also my mother's birthstone and Pi Phi's jewel, so it all works out.
KillarneyRose, have you ever seen a rhodolite garnet? They're raspberry colored, and very beautiful. I'm crazy about them. It might be a way for you to love your birthstone, and there's nothing scabby about them.
