The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year is a practice steeped in history and evolving beliefs. While today’s birthstone charts are largely standardized, their origins lie in ancient religious symbolism, astrological interpretations, and evolving cultural preferences. The modern list of birthstones, solidified in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers, represents a culmination of these influences, though alternative “ancient” and “traditional” lists continue to hold significance. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of several birthstones, drawing upon established lists and historical context.
A History of Association
The practice of linking gemstones to specific months, or to astrological signs, dates back to antiquity. The earliest known connection can be traced to the breastplate of the High Priest of Israel, described in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate featured twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel, arranged in four rows: carnelian, chrysolite (peridot), and beryl; turquoise, lapis lazuli, and emerald; jacinth (a type of zircon), agate, and amethyst; and topaz, onyx, and jasper.
Over time, these associations evolved. In the Middle Ages, gemstones were believed to possess medicinal properties and were used to influence mood and mental health, rather than solely for physical healing. The meaning of gemstones progressed from religious symbolism to magical mysticism. While the specific stones assigned to each month varied across cultures and eras, the underlying concept of a personal gemstone remained consistent.
The standardization of birthstones began in 1912 with the National Association of Jewelers, creating a list that has remained largely unchanged. Subsequent updates, such as the addition of alexandrite for June in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and the addition of spinel as an August birthstone in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association and the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), reflect evolving gemological understanding and market trends. Today, three sets of birthstones are recognized: ancient, traditional, and modern.
January: Garnet – Confidence and Clarity
Garnet, consistently listed as the birthstone for January across ancient and modern charts, is a gemstone celebrated for its rich color and believed metaphysical properties. Indian astrology associates garnet with improved self-confidence and mental clarity, fostering creativity and a calm mind. It is also believed to ward off negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger.
Geologically, garnet is not a single mineral but a group of silicate minerals with varying compositions. Garnets are primarily sourced from the African continent, but significant deposits are also found in Brazil, Afghanistan, India, Sri Lanka, and the United States. The gem boasts a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications.
February: Amethyst – Protection and Empowerment
Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a purple variety of crystalline quartz. Its color spectrum ranges from pale lilac to deep, rich purple, and it can be cut into a multitude of shapes and sizes. Amethyst can be both mined naturally and manufactured. Historically, amethyst was associated with the Greek god of wine, Bacchus, and was believed to protect against intoxication. It was also attributed with mystical powers, including strength and empowerment.
Until the 19th century, Russia was a primary source of amethyst. However, large deposits discovered in Brazil made the gem more readily available. Today, amethyst is commonly found in South America, Africa, Brazil, and the United States.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone – Ancient Choices
March presents a choice between two birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine, varying in color from deepest blue to water-green blue tones, has been valued for its perceived medicinal properties, believed to protect against throat, gut, and liver problems. Its name derives from the Latin words aqua (water) and mare (sea), reflecting its association with the ocean and protection from drowning. Bloodstone, a type of quartz known as Chalcedony, can be a milky pastel blue or aqua tone and looks attractive when set with pearls.
April: Diamond – A Symbol of Purity and Strength
April is represented by the diamond, a gemstone renowned for its exceptional hardness and brilliance. With a Mohs hardness of 10, the diamond is the hardest known natural substance. The diamond is associated with the goddess Aphrodite and the Latin verb aperire, meaning “to open,” symbolizing the blossoming of spring.
May: Emerald – Joy and Rebirth
Emerald, the birthstone for May, is known as the stone of joy and vitality. In ancient times, it symbolized fertility and rebirth, aligning with the renewal of life in springtime. Emeralds are rarely flawless; their inclusions, known as jardins (French for gardens), are considered to add character and resemble tiny wildflower patches. Medieval medicine attributed emeralds with the ability to cure headaches, epilepsy, and rejuvenate the spirit. Emeralds have a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale.
June: Pearl and Alexandrite – Gifts of the Sea and a Color-Changing Wonder
June offers two birthstone options: pearl and alexandrite. Pearls, historically sourced from the sea, have long been associated with purity and elegance. Alexandrite, added to the list in 1952, is a rare color-changing gemstone, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light.
July: Ruby – Passion and Creativity
Ruby, the birthstone for July, is celebrated for its intense red color and exceptional durability, registering a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, just below diamond. Rubies are often heat-treated to enhance their color by removing silk-like inclusions and purplish tones. Major sources of rubies include Vietnam, Mozambique, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
August: Peridot and Spinel – Protective Talismans and Harmonious Gems
August presents a choice between peridot and spinel. Peridot, derived from the Arabic word faridat meaning “gem,” was used for centuries as a protective talisman. Its color ranges from greenish-yellow to yellowish-green. Spinel, named from the Latin word spina meaning “thorn,” comes in a variety of colors, including purple, orange, blue, green, pink, and intense red. Spinel was believed to cure blood loss and inflammatory diseases and promote harmony.
September: Sapphire – Wisdom and Loyalty
Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is most commonly known for its blue hues, but it can occur in a variety of colors.
October: Tourmaline and Opal – A Spectrum of Colors
October offers a choice between tourmaline and opal. Tourmaline comes in a wide range of colors, while opal is known for its play-of-color.
November: Golden Topaz and Citrine – Warmth and Abundance
November is represented by golden topaz and citrine, both gemstones known for their warm, golden hues.
December: Blue Zircon and Tanzanite – Rarity and Elegance
December offers blue zircon and tanzanite as birthstone options. Blue zircon was added as a replacement for lapis, while tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, prized for its vibrant blue-violet color.
Beyond the Monthly Chart: Days of the Week and Zodiac Stones
The association of gemstones extends beyond monthly birthstones. Historically, gemstones were also linked to the days of the week, each corresponding to a planet and its associated energy. For example, gold topaz was worn on Sundays for the Sun’s energy, while ruby or garnet was worn on Tuesdays for Mars’ creativity and passion. Additionally, some individuals choose gemstones based on their zodiac sign, seeking a more personalized connection.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a fascinating blend of history, geology, and cultural belief. From the ancient breastplate of the High Priest to the standardized lists of the 20th century, the practice of associating gemstones with specific times of the year continues to resonate with individuals seeking meaning, protection, and beauty. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, perceived metaphysical properties, or personal significance, birthstones remain a cherished part of jewelry tradition and a captivating subject for gemstone enthusiasts.