The practice of associating gemstones with specific months, now widely known as birthstones, boasts a history stretching back centuries. While the concept’s roots lie in ancient beliefs surrounding the powers of gemstones, the standardized list most familiar today is a relatively recent development, solidified in the early 20th century. This article will explore the origins of birthstone assignment, tracing its evolution from ancient religious texts and astrological associations to the modern, commercially-driven system that prevails today.
The earliest origins of birthstone-like traditions can be found in the biblical Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus. This religious garment was set with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Scholars have long noted a potential connection between these stones and the twelve months of the year, though interpretations varied. In the 5th century A.D., Flavius Josephus and St. Jerome further developed this association, linking the twelve breastplate gems to both the months and the signs of the zodiac. The belief arose that owning and wearing all twelve stones, rotating them monthly, could provide healing effects.
However, this early system differed significantly from the modern concept of a single stone per birth month. Individuals were expected to possess all twelve gems and change them according to the calendar. The transition towards assigning a unique gemstone to each month began to take shape in 18th-century Poland. Jewish gem traders arriving in the region ingeniously began marketing gemstones based on a person’s birth month, effectively fusing the older zodiac model with the Gregorian calendar. This practice proved commercially successful and laid the groundwork for the standardization that would follow.
The true standardization of birthstones occurred in the United States in 1912. The National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) convened to create an official list of American birthstones. This decision was driven by a desire to streamline gemstone sales and provide a practical, easy-to-follow guide for consumers. The resulting list combined various customs that had evolved over time, while also ensuring the chosen stones were readily available for jewelers to sell and promote.
This initial list wasn’t static. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite to June, citrine to November, pink tourmaline to October, and zircon to December. More recently, in 2002, tanzanite was added as a December birthstone, and in 2016, spinel was officially recognized as an August birthstone. These additions demonstrate the ongoing evolution of the birthstone list, influenced by market availability and consumer preferences.
It is important to note that even with these efforts, a degree of ambiguity remains. A “traditional” birthstone list continues to exist alongside the modern list established by the National Association of Jewelers. This traditional list includes stones historically associated with each month, but some of these choices—such as bloodstone for March, sardonyx for August, and turquoise for December—fell out of favor due to changing fashion trends and availability. The existence of two lists provides consumers with options, allowing them to choose a stone based on personal taste or historical significance.
Furthermore, the concept of Zodiac gemstones adds another layer of complexity. Certain gemstones are also associated with each sign of the zodiac, offering an alternative system for selecting a meaningful stone. This proliferation of lists underscores the subjective nature of birthstone selection and the enduring appeal of personalized gemstone jewelry.
The enduring popularity of birthstones is rooted in the belief that these stones possess inherent meaning and power. Throughout history, humans have ascribed significance to gemstones, believing they could offer healing, luck, protection, or personal empowerment. Even for those who do not subscribe to mystical properties, the connection to one’s birth month creates a sense of intimacy and personal significance. The act of wearing a birthstone feels like connecting to a tradition passed down through generations, linking the wearer to a rich history of symbolism and belief.
The practice of wearing birthstones is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about embracing a tradition that spans centuries and cultures. Whether chosen for their perceived metaphysical properties, their historical significance, or simply their beauty, birthstones continue to hold a special place in the world of jewelry and personal adornment. The evolution of the birthstone list reflects changing tastes, market forces, and a persistent human desire to find meaning and connection in the natural world. The modern list, standardized in the United States, has become the dominant standard, but the echoes of ancient traditions and alternative systems continue to resonate, offering a diverse and personalized experience for those seeking the perfect gemstone to represent their birth month.