The assignment of specific gemstones to each month of the year has a rich and evolving history. While modern birthstone lists are widely recognized, the stones associated with each month have shifted over time, reflecting changes in availability, cultural preferences, and evolving beliefs about a gem’s inherent properties. Assessments of these stones vary, and opinions on their aesthetic appeal are subjective. This article examines the birthstones as ranked by attractiveness, drawing upon historical context, gemological properties, and cultural significance as detailed in available sources.
Historical Shifts in Birthstone Associations
The tradition of linking gemstones to specific months dates back to ancient times, with origins in the breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate contained twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel, and over time, these associations became linked to the months of the year. However, the specific gemstones assigned to each month have varied across different cultures and eras. The standardization of birthstone lists is a relatively recent phenomenon, largely driven by the jewelry industry in the 20th century. As noted, the stones considered most desirable have also changed, with new significance continually assigned to each.
The Most Highly Regarded Birthstones
According to available rankings, the emerald, birthstone for May, consistently receives the highest praise. Its deep green hue is likened to the lushness of spring, and legend attributes to it qualities of luck and protection against evil. The emerald’s aesthetic appeal is considered particularly strong, making it a favorite among those with a bold sense of style.
February’s birthstone, amethyst, also ranks highly. This crystalline quartz, known for its brilliant purple color, is believed to confer wisdom, promote healing of the lungs and heart, and offer protection against both physical and mental poisons. Its color complements the personalities associated with the Aquarius and Pisces zodiac signs.
March’s aquamarine, with its pale blue color reminiscent of a clear ocean, is also considered a beautiful and desirable gemstone. It is associated with tranquility and the ability to foresee future events, and those who wear it are often described as trendsetters.
January’s garnet, deriving its name from the Latin word for pomegranate due to its deep red hue, is widely regarded for its perceived healing powers, particularly relating to female energy. It is also considered a protective stone, warding off harm.
Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is a dark blue gem associated with protection from negative energy and increased mental clarity. Its elegance is exemplified by its frequent use in royal engagement rings, such as that worn by Princess Diana and Duchess Kate.
July’s ruby, ranging in color from deep pink to red wine, is associated with both love and power, making it a popular gift for loved ones.
October’s unique pairing of opal and tourmaline earns it a high ranking. Opal, with its play of rainbow colors due to flecks of silica, and tourmaline, available in shades of blue, green, and pink, are both considered stunning and promote inner peace, reflection, and wisdom.
June’s birthstones, pearl and alexandrite, are also highly valued. Pearls, formed within mollusks, symbolize integrity, love, and purity, while alexandrite, which can display multiple colors, is believed to have health-promoting properties.
Mid-Ranked Birthstones and Their Significance
Several birthstones occupy a middle ground in terms of aesthetic appeal and perceived value. April’s diamond, while the most prized and expensive, is described as having a “double-edged sword” association. While symbolizing love, purity, creativity, and power, its high cost makes it less accessible. Even vibrant colored diamonds are not considered as visually striking as some of the more colorful and unique stones.
The Less Favored Birthstones
November’s citrine and topaz are ranked lower in terms of attractiveness. Citrine, typically yellow but also found in brown and orange shades, is considered less desirable than other birthstones. Topaz, while available in a range of colors including blue, green, and pink, often presents a less appealing yellow hue.
August’s sardonyx, spinel, and peridot also receive less favorable assessments. Sardonyx, a banded chalcedony, was historically valued for its ability to bring courage and protection, but is now less prominent. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby and sapphire, is valued for its brilliance and durability, but its appeal is diminished by its historical misidentification. Peridot, a bright green gemstone, was once believed to ward off evil spirits and symbolize strength, but is sometimes overshadowed by other green gems like emerald.
December’s tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise represent a mixed bag. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery from Tanzania, is a rare and highly valued blue-violet gemstone believed to promote wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. However, zircon and turquoise, while possessing their own unique qualities, do not consistently rank as highly in terms of aesthetic appeal.
Gemological Properties and Sources
The gemological properties of these birthstones vary significantly. Tanzanite, for example, ranks 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale and is found exclusively in the Mererani Hills of northern Tanzania. Spinel, with a hardness of 7.5-8, is found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Myanmar. Peridot, ranking 6.5-7, is often found in Egypt, Myanmar, and the United States. Garnet, with its deep red hue, gets its name from the Latin word for pomegranate.
Sardonyx, a form of chalcedony, has a hardness of 6.5 and can be found in India, Brazil, and the United States. Amethyst, a form of crystalline quartz, is known for its purple color. Aquamarine, the pale blue stone assigned to March birthdays, is associated with a tranquil temperament.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Garnets are believed to be linked to female energy and offer protection. Sapphires are associated with protection from negative energy and mental clarity. Rubies symbolize love and power. Opals are thought to promote inner peace and reflection. Pearls represent integrity and love. Tanzanite is believed to promote wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. Peridot is thought to promote positivity, happiness, and confidence.
Care and Cleaning
The appropriate care and cleaning methods for each birthstone depend on its hardness and other gemological properties. Tanzanite, with its moderate hardness, requires careful handling to avoid scratches. Spinel, being more durable, can withstand more wear and tear. Peridot requires gentle cleaning to preserve its bright green color. Diamonds, being the hardest gemstone, are relatively resistant to scratches but still require regular cleaning to maintain their brilliance.
Conclusion
The ranking of birthstones is a subjective exercise, influenced by aesthetic preferences, cultural beliefs, and historical context. While the emerald consistently receives the highest praise for its vibrant green hue and legendary properties, each birthstone possesses unique qualities and significance. From the protective power of garnet to the spiritual enlightenment associated with tanzanite, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire, serving as enduring symbols of beauty, meaning, and personal connection.