The concept of birthstones – gemstones associated with specific months, zodiac signs, or even days of the week – has a rich and enduring history. These stones are believed to possess unique energies and offer specific benefits to those born under their influence. While modern lists are relatively standardized, the tradition itself evolved over centuries, drawing from astrological beliefs, religious symbolism, and evolving cultural preferences. This article will explore the colors associated with each birthstone, as understood through historical and contemporary perspectives, drawing upon established associations and available data.
History and Lore
The practice of linking gemstones to specific times of the year dates back to ancient civilizations. The origins can be traced to the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial garment described in the Book of Exodus, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. These stones were later connected to the months of the year and the zodiac signs. Over time, different cultures developed their own interpretations and assigned varying gemstones to each month.
The modern standardization of birthstones largely occurred in 1912, when the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) officially adopted a list. However, even today, some months have multiple accepted birthstones, offering a wider range of choices and meanings. The association of gemstones with days of the week also reflects ancient astrological beliefs, where each day was ruled by a specific planet and, consequently, a corresponding gemstone believed to harness that planet’s energy.
Monthly Birthstone Colors
The following outlines the colors associated with each birthstone, based on available information:
- January: Garnet – Deep red.
- February: Amethyst – Purple.
- March: Aquamarine – Pale blue. Bloodstone is also listed as an alternative traditional March birthstone.
- April: Diamond – Clear.
- May: Emerald – Green.
- June: Pearl – Typically white or cream, but can also occur in shades of pink, black, and silver.
- July: Ruby – Red (not explicitly detailed in the sources, but widely known).
- August: Peridot – Not detailed in the sources.
- September: Sapphire – Dark blue, though sapphires can occur in almost all colors except red.
- October: Opal – Pink, orange, black, and a wide variety of other colors.
- November: Topaz – Bright blue.
- December: Turquoise – Blue. Tanzanite is also a December birthstone, but its color is not specified in the sources.
Zodiac Birthstones and Their Colors
Beyond monthly associations, gemstones are also linked to the zodiac signs. This tradition stems from ancient astrological beliefs that gemstones reflect the energies of the planets and constellations. While standard birthstones often include precious gems, zodiac stones frequently encompass semi-precious varieties.
Here’s a breakdown of the zodiac birthstones and their colors, as presented in the sources:
- Aries (Mar. 21-Apr. 20): Red jasper – Red. Alternative stones include bloodstone and ruby.
- Taurus (Apr. 21-May 20): Rose quartz – Pink. Alternative stones include sapphire, emerald, and carnelian.
- Gemini (May 21-June 21): Tiger’s eye – Brown. Alternative stones include onyx and topaz.
- Cancer (June 22-July 22): Chrysoprase – Green. Alternative stones include diamond, moonstone, and emerald.
- Leo (July 23-Aug. 23): Rock crystal – Clear. Alternative stones include onyx, ruby, and diamond.
- Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 23): Citrine – Yellow. Alternative stones include zircon, beryl, and jasper.
- Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23): Orange citrine – Orange. Alternative stones include diamond, opal, and peridot.
- Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22): Carnelian – Deep red. Alternative stones include obsidian, ruby, and topaz.
Gemological Properties: Diamonds and Emeralds
The provided sources offer some specific gemological details for diamonds and emeralds.
Diamond:
- Color: Clear
- Mohs Hardness: 10 (the highest on the scale, indicating exceptional durability)
Diamonds are noted for their enduring beauty and dependability, making them a traditional choice for engagement rings. Their clarity has historically symbolized purity. Historically, diamonds were used medicinally, reserved for royalty and religious leaders.
Emerald:
- Color: Green
- Mohs Hardness: 7.5-8
Emeralds are known as the “stone of joy and vitality” and historically symbolized fertility and rebirth. The bright green color is associated with spring and new life. Emeralds are rarely flawless; their internal inclusions, known as jardins (French for gardens), are considered to add character and resemble tiny wildflower patches. Medieval medicine attributed healing properties to emeralds, believing they could cure headaches, epilepsy, and rejuvenate the spirit.
Gemstone Formation and Sources
The sources provide limited information regarding gemstone formation and sources. Opal, however, is noted to contain between 3-10% water and is primarily sourced from Australia, with rarer varieties found in the United States and Mexico. Sapphires are noted to be heated to over 1,800 degrees Celsius to release color impurities, resulting in a perfect blue hue.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Diamonds, with their clarity, have been associated with purity. Emeralds, linked to spring and rebirth, symbolize fertility and vitality. The association of gemstones with planets and days of the week reflects a belief that these stones could absorb planetary energies and transmit them to the wearer, offering protection, creativity, or mental clarity. Opal, due to its mixed colors, was historically considered good luck, believed to contain a little bit of all other precious gemstones. However, this perception varies culturally, with opal being viewed as a bad omen in some Russian traditions.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide detailed care and cleaning instructions for the gemstones. However, given the Mohs hardness scale information, it can be inferred that diamonds (hardness 10) are exceptionally durable and require less careful handling than emeralds (hardness 7.5-8). Emeralds, being relatively softer, may be more susceptible to scratches and require more gentle cleaning methods.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a fascinating intersection of history, astrology, geology, and cultural belief. The colors associated with each stone – from the deep red of garnet to the vibrant green of emerald and the clear brilliance of diamond – hold symbolic meaning and continue to captivate and inspire. While modern lists provide a standardized framework, the tradition itself remains fluid and open to interpretation, allowing individuals to connect with these beautiful gemstones on a personal and meaningful level. The enduring appeal of birthstones lies in their ability to offer a tangible link to our birth month, zodiac sign, or personal preferences, serving as a reminder of our unique place in the cosmos.