The tradition of birthstones is a long-standing and deeply symbolic practice that connects individuals with specific gemstones based on their birth month. These gemstones have been treasured across cultures and centuries for their beauty, rarity, and the meanings they represent. The 2019 birthstone chart continues this tradition by aligning each month of the year with a gemstone that carries historical, cultural, and even metaphysical significance. This article delves into the comprehensive details of these birthstones, examining their geological properties, historical lore, symbolic meanings, and practical care tips. The discussion is grounded in the 2019 version of the chart, which reflects both traditional and modern selections for each month.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The use of gemstones to denote birth months dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest references is found in the Breastplate of Aaron from the Book of Exodus, which lists twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations evolved into a system where each stone came to represent a month of the year and was believed to offer protection, healing, or guidance to those born under its influence.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, the modern birthstone chart took shape in the United States and Europe, largely influenced by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. These associations were refined and updated over the decades, with the 2019 chart being a culmination of these historical developments and contemporary preferences. The 2019 version includes both modern and traditional stones, with some months offering multiple options.
January – Garnet
Garnet is the birthstone for those born in January. Known for its deep red hue, garnet is a member of a group of silicate minerals. While red is the most common color, garnet can also appear in shades of green, orange, yellow, and even rare blue. The blue garnet, discovered in the 1990s, is particularly rare and highly valued. Garnet has a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7.5, making it relatively durable for everyday wear.
Historically, garnet was believed to offer protection and promote friendship and trust. In medieval Europe, it was often used in jewelry for its protective qualities. Garnet has also been associated with the sun and was used in talismans to ward off negativity.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a violet-colored quartz known for its calming properties. With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is a durable gemstone, suitable for rings and bracelets. Its color comes from trace amounts of iron and irradiation, and the most valuable specimens are deep purple with a red flash known as the “flame” or “flame effect.”
Amethyst has long been revered for its ability to promote tranquility and sobriety. Ancient Greeks believed that the stone could prevent intoxication and was named after the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not drunken.” In the Middle Ages, it was worn to protect against witchcraft and bad dreams. Today, amethyst is a popular choice for jewelry and is associated with spiritual clarity and emotional balance.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is a pale blue to blue-green beryl known for its serene color. With a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, it is a fairly durable gemstone, ideal for rings and earrings. The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (of the sea), referencing its sea-like color.
Aquamarine has been historically associated with sailors, who believed it would calm the seas and protect them from drowning. In medieval Europe, it was thought to have healing properties for the throat and eyes. Today, aquamarine is linked to courage and honesty, making it a meaningful gift for those born in March.
April – Diamond
Diamond is the April birthstone and is perhaps the most well-known gemstone in the world. With a perfect Mohs hardness of 10, diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. It is composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle.
Diamond has long been a symbol of love, purity, and strength. It was historically considered a gift from the gods and was believed to bring good fortune and invincibility. In the 15th century, the first recorded diamond engagement ring was presented by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy. Today, diamond is most famously associated with engagement rings and is a popular choice for anniversary gifts.
May – Emerald
Emerald, the May birthstone, is a vibrant green beryl known for its rich color and natural inclusions, often referred to as “garden.” With a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, emerald is relatively durable but requires careful handling to avoid damage. Its deep green color comes from chromium or vanadium trace elements.
Emerald has been prized for centuries, with the most famous deposits found in Colombia. Ancient Egyptians referred to emerald as the “heart of the earth,” and it was believed to have healing properties for the eyes and heart. During the Renaissance, emerald was associated with rebirth and was often used in rings and brooches.
June – Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June is unique in that it has three official birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. Each of these gems carries its own set of properties and symbolism.
Pearl is an organic gem formed within mollusks and is composed of calcium carbonate. It has a Mohs hardness of 2.5–4.5, making it one of the softer birthstones. Pearl is associated with purity, innocence, and faith, and it has been used in jewelry for centuries, particularly in Asia.
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone known for its dramatic color change from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. With a Mohs hardness of 8.5–9, it is quite durable. Alexandrite was discovered in the 19th century in Russia and is considered one of the most valuable birthstones due to its rarity and color change.
Moonstone is a type of feldspar known for its ethereal, glowing appearance. With a Mohs hardness of 6–6.5, it is relatively soft and requires careful handling. Moonstone is associated with intuition and emotional balance, and it is often used in jewelry for its mystical appearance.
July – Ruby
Ruby, the July birthstone, is a red corundum that is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. With a Mohs hardness of 9, ruby is highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. Its red color comes from trace amounts of chromium, and the most famous ruby deposits are found in Myanmar.
Ruby has long been associated with passion, courage, and prosperity. Ancient cultures believed that ruby was a protective stone that could ward off evil and bring good fortune. In the 16th century, ruby was considered one of the most powerful gems and was often used in royal regalia.
August – Peridot
Peridot is the August birthstone and is a green silicate mineral. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, it is fairly durable and suitable for rings and earrings. Peridot is known for its vibrant green color, which comes from trace amounts of iron.
Peridot has a long history of use in jewelry and was even believed to be a form of the sun. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun” and believed it brought good luck and protected against nightmares. Today, peridot is associated with friendship and strength, making it a meaningful gift for those born in August.
September – Sapphire
Sapphire is the September birthstone and is a blue corundum. With a Mohs hardness of 9, it is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones. Sapphire is known for its deep blue color, which comes from trace amounts of iron and titanium, though sapphires can also appear in other colors.
Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and nobility. In medieval Europe, it was believed to bring protection from harm and was often used in royal regalia. Today, sapphire is a popular choice for engagement rings and is associated with loyalty and enduring love.
October – Tourmaline
Tourmaline is the October birthstone and is a complex borosilicate mineral known for its wide range of colors. With a Mohs hardness of 7–7.5, tourmaline is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. The most common color is pink, but tourmaline can also appear in black, green, yellow, and even multicolored forms.
Tourmaline has long been associated with creativity and emotional balance. It was believed to have protective properties and was often used in amulets and talismans. Today, tourmaline is a popular choice for jewelry and is associated with hope and inspiration.
November – Citrine
Citrine is the November birthstone and is a yellow to orange variety of quartz. With a Mohs hardness of 7, citrine is a durable and affordable gemstone. Its color comes from trace amounts of iron and is often heat-treated to enhance its appearance.
Citrine has long been associated with happiness, strength, and love. In the 19th century, it was known as the “merchant’s stone” and was believed to bring prosperity and success. Today, citrine is a popular choice for jewelry and is associated with warmth and positivity.
December – Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the December birthstone and is a blue to violet pyrope zoisite. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, it is relatively soft and requires careful handling. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, first discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s.
Tanzanite is associated with protection, healing, and wisdom. It is also known for its dramatic color change, which is more pronounced in some specimens than others. Due to its rarity and beauty, tanzanite is a highly valued gemstone and is considered one of the most unique birthstones.
Care and Cleaning Tips
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of birthstone jewelry. The care instructions vary depending on the gemstone’s hardness and chemical composition. For example, softer stones like pearl and moonstone should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, while harder stones like diamond and ruby can withstand more rigorous cleaning.
It is important to avoid exposing birthstone jewelry to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or physical impacts. When not in use, gemstones should be stored separately to prevent scratches and damage. Understanding the specific care requirements of each gemstone ensures that it remains a treasured keepsake for years to come.
Conclusion
The 2019 birthstone chart is a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the natural world and one’s personal history. Each gemstone carries its own unique properties, symbolism, and history, making it a valuable and enduring symbol of identity and individuality. Whether chosen for its beauty, rarity, or meaning, a birthstone is more than just a gem—it is a personal treasure that can be passed down through generations.
By understanding the geological, historical, and cultural significance of each birthstone, individuals can make informed choices about the jewelry they wear and the gifts they give. The 2019 chart continues the tradition of connecting people with nature through the timeless allure of gemstones.