The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year—birthstones—has a rich and evolving history. While each month is typically linked to a primary gemstone, many months also boast secondary birthstones, offering a wider range of choices and symbolic meanings. These additions often arose due to the scarcity or expense of the primary stone, or to reflect evolving tastes and discoveries in gemology. This article will delve into the world of secondary birthstones, exploring their origins, properties, and the cultural significance they hold, based on available historical and gemological information.
The Evolution of Birthstone Lists
The concept of birthstones dates back centuries, with early associations often based on color and astrological beliefs. However, the standardization of birthstone lists is a relatively recent phenomenon. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) formalized a standard list, and further updates occurred in 1952, adding secondary stones to several months. This practice continues today, with modern additions like spinel, citrine, and tanzanite reflecting contemporary preferences and availability. The existence of both traditional and modern lists allows for personal choice and accommodates varying budgets and tastes. Some traditional gems, like turquoise and cultivated pearls, remain popular due to their affordability and accessibility.
Months with Multiple Choices
Several months benefit from having multiple birthstone options. This provides individuals with a greater opportunity to find a stone that resonates with them personally, or to select a gem that fits their financial means.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
March is represented by both aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine, known for its refreshing blue hues, is a calming stone. Bloodstone, a variety of chalcedony, is a traditional choice for this month.
April: Diamond and Clear Quartz
While diamond reigns supreme as April’s primary birthstone, its high cost has led to the inclusion of alternatives like clear quartz.
June: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June stands out with three primary gemstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. Pearl symbolizes purity, wisdom, and elegance. Alexandrite, a rare color-changing gem, represents balance and transformation. Moonstone embodies feminine energy, intuition, and mystery. This combination reflects a duality of strength and softness.
August: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
August offers a trio of empowering stones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot is believed to offer protection, particularly against nightmares. Spinel, often mistaken for ruby, symbolizes revitalization and passion. Sardonyx represents strength, grounding, and stamina.
October: Opal and Tourmaline
October presents a stunning spectrum of choices with opal and tourmaline. Opal is celebrated for its creativity and emotional depth, while tourmaline offers a rainbow of hues and is associated with compassion, protection, and healing.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November is represented by topaz and citrine, both typically found in shades of yellow.
December: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
December boasts a range of blue gemstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Tanzanite was a more recent addition to the list, reflecting modern preferences.
Gemological Properties of Secondary Stones
While a comprehensive gemological overview of each secondary stone is beyond the scope of available information, some key properties can be highlighted.
Garnet, the January birthstone, is a dark red gemstone often compared to ruby, though less expensive and durable. Ruby, the July birthstone, belongs to the corundum family and ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond. Spinel, an August alternative to peridot, is particularly prized in its red variety as a more affordable substitute for ruby. Topaz, the primary November stone, is typically yellow. Citrine, also yellow, shares November’s designation. Zircon, a December stone, is known for its colorless variety but also appears in blue and other colors.
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is primarily known for its blue variety but occurs in a rainbow of colors. Alexandrite, a June stone, is famed for its color-changing abilities.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The symbolism associated with birthstones varies across cultures and eras. Garnets were worn by Egyptian Pharaohs and are linked to friendship, trust, romance, passion, and intimacy. Sapphires, beyond their beauty, are associated with wisdom and loyalty. Pearls have long symbolized purity and innocence. Turquoise has been valued for its protective qualities.
The inclusion of secondary birthstones often reflects a desire to provide more accessible options or to acknowledge the diverse range of meanings associated with gemstones. The multiple choices available for months like June, August, and December allow individuals to select a stone that resonates with their personal beliefs and preferences.
Choosing a Birthstone: A Personal Journey
The proliferation of birthstone options underscores the personal nature of this tradition. While the primary birthstone for a given month holds historical significance, the availability of secondary stones allows for greater individual expression. Factors such as color preference, budget, and symbolic meaning can all play a role in the selection process.
Sources
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a fascinating blend of history, gemology, and cultural belief. The addition of secondary birthstones has enriched this tradition, providing individuals with a wider range of choices and symbolic meanings. From the calming blue of aquamarine to the empowering hues of peridot and spinel, each stone offers a unique connection to the month of one’s birth. The ongoing evolution of birthstone lists reflects a continued appreciation for the beauty, rarity, and enduring appeal of these natural treasures.