Birthstones are gemstones that represent each month of the year. They are thought to bring good luck, health, and prosperity to people born in their corresponding month. The tradition of birthstones dates back thousands of years and each stone is believed to have unique healing and symbolic powers.
History of Birthstones
The origin of birthstones traces back to the Breastplate of Aaron in the Bible. The breastplate displayed twelve gemstones that corresponded to the twelve tribes of Israel. In the first century, Jewish historian Josephus associated each stone with the twelve signs of the zodiac and the months of the year.
Later, in the 15th and 16th centuries, Polish gem traders began promoting specific stones for each month. The tradition gained popularity in royal courts of Europe where gemstones were gifted based on birth month. By the 18th century, birthstones were widely used in jewelry and their mystical properties were emphasized.
In 1912, the modern list of birthstones was standardized by the American National Association of Jewelers. This list associated a gemstone for each month and is the system most commonly used today.
Modern Birthstones by Month
Here are the traditional modern birthstones for each month of the year:
| Month | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl, Alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal, Tourmaline |
| November | Topaz, Citrine |
| December | Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite |
Some months have alternate birthstones in addition to the primary gemstone. This provides people with more options to find a birthstone they connect with.
The Meanings Behind Birthstones
In addition to representing a birth month, each birthstone carries its own unique meaning and symbolic associations.
January – Garnet
Garnets symbolize truth, faith, and constancy. They are thought to boost energy, vigor, and vitality. The deep red color is linked to the root chakra and blood circulation.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst represents humility, spiritual wisdom, and sincerity. It is thought to promote peace, stability, and courage. The purple color is associated with the third eye and crown chakras.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine embodies youth, health, and hope. It is considered a stone of courage and protection for travelers. The serene blue color represents flowing water and clear skies.
April – Diamond
Diamonds symbolize enduring love, relationships, and courage. They are valued for their strength, brilliance, and ability to refract light. Diamond is the traditional 60th anniversary gemstone.
May – Emerald
Emeralds represent wisdom, growth, and patience. They are thought to enhance memory and eloquence. The lush green color signifies life, nature, and fertility.
June – Pearl
Pearls symbolize purity, humility, and integrity. They represent both the moon and the sea, with an iridescent luminous quality. Pearls are traditionally given on the 3rd and 30th wedding anniversary.
July – Ruby
Rubies embody passion, prosperity, and protection. Their deep red color signifies love, confidence, and vibrancy. Rubies are considered one of the four precious stones, along with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires.
August – Peridot
Peridot represents strength, power, and cleansing. It symbolizes the sun and is thought to protect against nightmares and bring the gift of prophecy. Peridot’s green color evokes renewal and growth.
September – Sapphire
Sapphires symbolize wisdom, virtue, and holiness. They represent faithfulness, sincerity, and spiritual enlightenment. Sapphire is traditionally the gemstone for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversary.
October – Opal
Opals embody hope, innocence, and purity. Their shimmering play of color is thought to reflect one’s changing moods and fortunes. Opals represent fidelity, confidence, and creativity.
November – Topaz
Topaz symbolizes prosperity, strength, and protection. It embodies creativity, individuality, and optimism. Topaz comes in many colors, each with unique meanings and energies.
December – Turquoise
Turquoise represents wisdom, tranquility, and wholeness. It brings good fortune and success, while warding off negative vibrations. Turquoise has been prized for its healing powers and protection since ancient times.
How to Choose a Birthstone
When selecting a birthstone, the month you were born is the first deciding factor. But there are other considerations as well:
- Color – Pick a birthstone hue you are naturally drawn to.
- Meaning – Choose a stone that resonates with symbolic qualities you value.
- Style – Consider how you will wear your birthstone, in a ring, pendant, or other jewelry.
- Budget – Birthstone prices span the range, with many affordable options.
- Alternates – Opt for a secondary birthstone if you prefer it over the primary.
- Mix and match – Combine your birthstone with other complementary gems.
While birthstones are a fun tradition, it’s most important to select stones that speak to you. Let your personal taste and sensibilities guide you to your perfect gem!
Birthstone Jewelry Ideas
Birthstone jewelry makes wonderful birthday gifts, anniversary presents, or sentimental self-purchases. Here are some ideas for birthstone jewelry to match any personal style:
- Birthstone rings – Simple solitaire rings, halo designs, multi-stone rings
- Birthstone necklaces – Pendants, beaded necklaces, birthstone chokers
- Birthstone bracelets – Gemstone tennis bracelets, beaded bracelets with birthstone charms
- Birthstone earrings – Stud earrings, birthstone hoops, dangle designs
- Stacking birthstone rings – Mix multiple gem rings on one finger
- Birthstone cufflinks or brooches – For men’s accessories or women’s statement pieces
You can also find birthstone charms for charm bracelets, watches with birthstone bezels, and birthstone hair clips, brooches, and more. Combining your birthstone with diamonds or pearls creates an extra special piece.
Birthstones for Loved Ones
Birthstone jewelry also makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Here are some ideas:
- Spouse – Combine your birthstone with your partner’s birthstone in a two-stone ring or pendant
- Mother – Make a personalized necklace with the birthstones of all her children
- Sister – Gift matching earrings or bracelets featuring her birthstone
- Daughter – Create a custom birthstone charm bracelet she can add charms to each year
- Grandmother – Frame a photo of you two with her birthstone in the corner
A jewelry gift featuring someone’s birthstone shows that extra degree of care, thought, and personalization. It makes the present even more meaningful!
Conclusion
Birthstones are a fun way to celebrate each month and add symbolic meaning to jewelry and accessories. The tradition dates back thousands of years, with fascinating histories behind every stone. Beyond representing birth months, individual gemstones carry their own special properties and lore. While astrology and ancient myths play a role, you can also choose birthstones simply based on color and style preference. Birthstone jewelry makes for popular birthday gifts, anniversary presents, and self-purchases. With so many beautiful stones to pick from, you can find the perfect gem resonating with someone’s personality and energy.