The practice of associating gemstones with specific months, and even days of the week, has a long and fascinating history. While modern lists are relatively recent creations, the tradition itself stretches back centuries, rooted in astrological beliefs and the perceived healing properties of colored stones. Today, birthstones remain a popular way to personalize jewelry and imbue it with symbolic meaning. This article provides a detailed overview of the birthstones assigned to each month, drawing upon historical context and modern interpretations.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones evolved over time. Ancient civilizations often linked gemstones to deities, zodiac signs, and the planets. Early associations were not standardized, and variations existed across cultures. The modern birthstone list began to take shape in the 19th and 20th centuries, with jewelers seeking to promote sales by assigning a specific stone to each month. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers created a standardized list, which has been updated a few times since, most notably in 1952 and 2016. These updates reflect the discovery of new gemstones and changing consumer preferences.
It is important to note that many months now have multiple birthstone options – a “traditional” stone and a “modern” stone. This allows for greater choice and accommodates varying tastes and budgets. Some individuals even prefer to select a stone based on its color or symbolic meaning, rather than strictly adhering to the assigned month. The practice of choosing by zodiac sign or even day of the week, linking stones to planetary energies, also persists as a more personalized approach.
Monthly Breakdown of Birthstones
The following sections detail each month’s birthstone(s), based on the provided sources.
January: Garnet
Garnet is the traditional and modern birthstone for January. It is typically known for its dark red hue, but garnets actually occur in a wide range of colors, including yellow, green, purple, and even those that change color under different lighting conditions. The garnet family comprises several different mineral species, including pyrope, almandine, spessartine, andradite, and grossular, each contributing to the variations in color. Indian astrology associates garnet with improved self-confidence, mental clarity, and creativity, while also offering protection against negative emotions like anxiety and depression. Garnet symbolizes faith and fidelity.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst, a violet variety of quartz, is the birthstone for February. Both the traditional and modern lists recognize amethyst for this month.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarine, with its pale blue to dark green hues, is the modern birthstone for March. Traditionally, bloodstone was associated with this month. Aquamarine is believed to bring happiness and tranquility.
April: Diamond
Diamond, renowned for its brilliance and durability, is the birthstone for April. It remains consistent as both the traditional and modern choice. Diamond symbolizes enduring love.
May: Emerald
Emerald, a vibrant green gemstone, is the birthstone for May. Like diamond, it holds its place as both the traditional and modern stone for this month, representing joy and vitality.
June: Alexandrite
Alexandrite is the modern birthstone for June, while pearl was the traditional choice. Alexandrite is known for its color-changing properties, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light.
July: Ruby
Ruby, with its intense red color, is the birthstone for July. It is consistently recognized as both the traditional and modern stone, symbolizing passionate love.
August: Peridot and Spinel
August has two birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot, a light green gemstone, is the more commonly recognized option. Spinel was added as a modern alternative in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association and the National Association of Jewelers. Traditionally, sardonyx was associated with August.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire, most famously known for its deep blue color, is the birthstone for September. It is consistently listed as both the traditional and modern choice, representing wisdom and loyalty.
October: Tourmaline and Opal
October offers a choice between tourmaline and opal. Tourmaline, available in a wide spectrum of colors, is the modern birthstone. Opal, known for its play of color, was the traditional stone.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November has two birthstones: topaz and citrine. Golden topaz is the modern choice, while citrine, an orange-colored gemstone, is also widely recognized. Traditionally, topaz was the sole birthstone for November.
December: Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz
December presents a selection of blue gemstones: blue zircon and blue topaz. Tanzanite and turquoise were also historically associated with this month. Blue topaz is a popular modern choice.
Choosing a Birthstone
The sources suggest several ways to choose a birthstone beyond simply selecting the stone assigned to your birth month. These include considering birthstone colors, symbolic meanings, or even aligning with your zodiac sign. The practice of choosing a stone based on the day of the week, linking it to planetary energies, offers another personalized approach. For example, wearing a gold topaz on Sunday is believed to harness the Sun’s vibrant energy, while an emerald on Friday is associated with Venus’ love and excitement.
Days of the Week Gemstones
The sources also provide a list of gemstones associated with each day of the week:
- Sunday: Gold Topaz
- Monday: Moonstone or Pearl
- Tuesday: Ruby or Garnet
- Wednesday: Turquoise, Sapphire, or Lapis Lazuli
- Thursday: Amethyst
- Friday: Emerald
- Saturday: Diamond
Conclusion
Birthstones offer a captivating blend of history, symbolism, and aesthetic beauty. From ancient astrological associations to modern standardized lists, the tradition of linking gemstones to specific months and days continues to resonate with individuals seeking to personalize their jewelry and connect with deeper meanings. Whether choosing a stone based on birth month, color preference, or symbolic significance, birthstones remain a cherished part of the gemstone world.