For centuries, humanity has shared a profound connection with the treasures of the Earth, a connection deeply felt in the tradition of birthstones. The belief that a specific gemstone corresponds to one’s birth month, offering protection, fortune, and a unique identity, is a practice spanning cultures and generations. This guide explores the history, meaning, and beauty of each gem in the official list of birthstones by month.
The Ancient Origins of Birthstones
The origins of associating gemstones with specific periods can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The earliest connections are found in the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus, which contained twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. In the first century A.D., the Jewish historian Josephus proposed a link between these stones and the twelve zodiac signs. However, the association of gemstones with birth months, as opposed to zodiac signs, gained prominence in the 18th century. The practice evolved from assigning beautiful, rare crystals to the star signs to assigning them to the months, ultimately leading to the birthstone tradition as we know it today.
From Traditional to Modern Lists
The assignment of birthstones has not been static. Throughout history, different cultures and eras have favored different stones. Initially, multiple stones were associated with each month. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers created a standardized, modern list of birthstones, aiming to clarify the associations. This list has remained largely unchanged since then, though additions and modifications continue to be considered. Even today, jewelers and individuals often draw from both traditional and modern lists, selecting stones based on personal preference and availability. Recent additions, such as spinel for August in 2016, demonstrate the ongoing evolution of this tradition.
A Journey Through the Calendar: Month by Month
January: Garnet
The garnet is the birthstone for January, and is considered one of the most diverse stones. While commonly found in red, garnets occur in almost every color. Some varieties even exhibit color-changing properties depending on the light source. Garnet isn’t a single mineral, but rather a group of several related minerals including pyrope, almandine, spessartine, andradite, and grossular. These minerals contribute to the wide range of colors observed, with andradite ranging from yellow to green, pyrope and almandine displaying purple to red tones, and spessartine appearing in orange to yellow hues. Indian astrology attributes garnet with improving self-confidence and mental clarity, fostering creativity and a calm mind, while also helping to ward off negative emotions like anxiety and depression.
February: Amethyst
February’s birthstone is the amethyst, a violet-colored gemstone symbolizing temperance and deep love.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March, representing happiness and tranquility. Traditionally, bloodstone was also associated with March.
April: Diamond
The diamond, a symbol of enduring love, is the birthstone for April.
May: Emerald
May is represented by the emerald, a bright green gemstone associated with joy and vitality.
June: Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone
June boasts three birthstones: alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone. Pearl and moonstone symbolize purity and sincerity, while alexandrite is known for its color-changing properties.
July: Ruby
The passionate ruby is the birthstone for July, embodying passionate love.
August: Peridot & Spinel
August has two birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot is a light green stone representing creative expression. Spinel was added as a modern birthstone in 2016. Traditionally, sardonyx was also associated with August.
September: Sapphire
The celestial sapphire, symbolizing wisdom and loyalty, is the birthstone for September.
October: Opal & Tourmaline
October offers a choice between opal and tourmaline. Opal is known for its play of color, while tourmaline comes in a variety of pink shades. Traditionally, aquamarine was also associated with October.
November: Topaz & Citrine
November’s birthstones are topaz and citrine, representing self-confidence and kindness. Traditionally, tiger’s eye was also associated with November.
December: Turquoise, Zircon & Tanzanite
December has three birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and blue topaz. These stones symbolize peace and calmness. Tanzanite, a relatively new gemstone, has also been added to the December list. Traditionally, lapis lazuli was also associated with December.
The Significance of Wearing Birthstones
Birthstones are increasingly popular in jewelry design, offering a deeper, more personal meaning to each piece. The belief that crystals possess magical powers with positive effects on the wearer dates back to the Middle Ages. People collected all twelve birthstones to ensure good luck throughout the year. Wearing a birthstone is seen as carrying a lucky charm, and is often incorporated into rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. It is believed that wearing the stone directly on the skin enhances its beneficial properties.
Birthstones as Gifts
A piece of jewelry featuring a birthstone is considered a thoughtful and meaningful gift. Because everyone has a birthstone, such gifts carry an emotional value beyond the material worth of the gem. Jewelry can even be personalized to represent multiple family members by incorporating several different birthstones.
Conclusion
The tradition of birthstones by month is a rich tapestry woven from history, mythology, and personal significance. From the ancient Breastplate of Aaron to the modern lists established by jewelers’ associations, the practice continues to resonate with people seeking connection, protection, and a touch of magic in their lives. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, symbolic meaning, or perceived healing properties, birthstones remain a cherished part of our cultural heritage and a deeply personal expression of identity.