The concept of birthstones – gemstones associated with specific months – has a rich and fascinating history, evolving over centuries from ancient beliefs to modern jewelry preferences. While the tradition offers a personalized connection to gemstones, the list itself isn’t static. Today, both traditional and modern birthstone charts exist, offering a wider range of choices for those seeking a meaningful gem. This article explores the birthstones assigned to each month, detailing their historical context, color variations, and the evolving standards that define these cherished stones.
History and Standardization
The practice of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with various cultures attributing different powers and meanings to different stones. However, the standardization of birthstone lists is a relatively recent development. In 1912, the organizations associated with the Jewelers of America officially adopted a list of traditional birthstones. This list remained largely unchanged until 1952, when a nationwide survey revealed shifting consumer preferences. This led to the creation of a modern birthstone chart, incorporating additional gems and reflecting evolving market trends. Further additions, such as Tanzanite for December, have occurred in more recent years, driven by marketing efforts and industry initiatives. The American Gem Trade Association added Tanzanite to the December list in 2002, and a subsequent marketing strategy in 2006 proposed presenting Tanzanite as a birthstone for every child, regardless of their birth month, aiming to boost sales.
January: Garnet
The January birthstone, Garnet, is most recognized for its deep red hue, reminiscent of a pomegranate seed – a connection reflected in its name, derived from the medieval Latin word Granatus, meaning pomegranate. However, Garnets are not limited to red; they are available in a wide spectrum of colors, including greens, oranges, and yellows. Historically, Garnets have been prized for centuries, adorning the jewelry of ancient Egyptian pharaohs and featuring prominently in the opulent designs of the Victorian Era. Garnets are sourced from various regions worldwide, including Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Brazil, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, with Africa being a major contributor to global Garnet supplies. The stone is believed to represent fertility and rebirth, offering new opportunities and wisdom to the wearer, while also fostering self-confidence and emotional strength.
February: Amethyst
February’s birthstone, Amethyst, is celebrated for its captivating purple and violet tones. Amethyst often occurs in geodes or the cavities of granitic rocks and is found globally, including in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Zambia.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
March boasts two birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Aquamarine, the modern choice, is known for its dreamy, translucent clarity and bluish-green colors, inspiring its name from the Latin word for “seawater.” Ancient Egyptians and Sumerians valued Aquamarine as a symbol of happiness and eternal youth, believing it granted safe passage across stormy waters. Today, it is recognized as a tool for meditation, promoting harmony and tranquility. Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is a dark-green gemstone speckled with mysterious red spots of iron oxide. Primarily sourced from India, Brazil, and Australia, Bloodstone is found as pebbles in rocks and riverbeds and is associated with purifying energy and the realignment of lower chakras, boosting resilience and strength.
April: Diamond
The April birthstone, Diamond, is renowned for its durability and brilliance. Formed from carbon, Diamonds are exceptionally hard – a Diamond can only be cut with another Diamond. Their enduring quality makes them a popular choice for engagement rings.
May: Emerald
May’s birthstone, Emerald, is characterized by its vibrant green hues.
June: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone
June offers a trio of birthstones: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone. Alexandrite is a modern choice, known for its green color. Pearls, a traditional June birthstone, are celebrated for their white iridescent luster. Moonstone, also traditional, displays a white coloration.
July: Ruby
July’s birthstone, Ruby, is celebrated for its deep red color.
August: Peridot and Spinel
August presents two birthstones: Peridot and Spinel. Peridot is traditionally associated with light green hues. Spinel is a more recent addition to the modern birthstone list.
September: Sapphire
September’s birthstone, Sapphire, is most commonly known for its deep blue or indigo color, but it also occurs in pink and yellow varieties.
October: Tourmaline and Opal
October features two birthstones: Tourmaline and Opal. Opal is the traditional choice, displaying rainbow iridescent hues.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November offers two birthstones: Topaz and Citrine. Golden Topaz is a modern choice, while Citrine represents a traditional option.
December: Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli
December boasts a diverse selection of birthstones, reflecting the evolving nature of the list. Modern choices include Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite, while traditional options encompass Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli. The addition of Tanzanite in recent years demonstrates the influence of marketing and industry trends on birthstone designations.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a captivating blend of history, tradition, and evolving preferences. From the ancient origins of associating gemstones with specific months to the modern standardization efforts of jewelry organizations, the birthstone list continues to adapt and reflect changing tastes. Whether one adheres to the traditional or modern chart, the choice of a birthstone remains a personal and meaningful one, offering a connection to the beauty, symbolism, and enduring allure of these precious gems.