A birthstone chart is more than just a simple list of gemstones; it is a cultural and historical artifact that reflects centuries of tradition, symbolism, and gemological science. These charts assign specific gemstones to each month of the year, often carrying meanings that range from protection to prosperity. While the concept of birthstones has roots in ancient civilizations, the modern birthstone chart was officially standardized in the 20th century by the jewelry industry. Today, birthstone charts serve as both a practical reference for jewelry design and a fascinating window into the history of gemstone lore.
This article explores the structure, evolution, and significance of the birthstone chart, focusing on the modern version used globally. Drawing from authoritative sources, we will examine the gemstones associated with each month, their properties, their historical and cultural meanings, and how the chart has adapted over time. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide provides an in-depth look at the role of birthstones in both modern and traditional contexts.
Introduction
The birthstone chart is a widely recognized reference that assigns a specific gemstone to each month of the year. These gemstones, often used in jewelry, carry symbolic meanings and have been celebrated across cultures for centuries. The modern birthstone chart, which has its roots in 20th-century standardization, includes both traditional and alternative stones, and it continues to evolve with the addition of new gem varieties.
The chart serves multiple purposes: it helps individuals identify their birthstone, offers inspiration for jewelry design, and provides insight into the historical and cultural significance of gemstones. In this article, we will examine the structure of the birthstone chart, the gemstones associated with each month, and the symbolic meanings attributed to them. We will also explore the evolution of the chart and how it varies across different cultures.
The Structure of the Birthstone Chart
The modern birthstone chart is a visual guide that lists the official gemstones associated with each month of the year. It typically includes both traditional and alternative stones, reflecting the historical and cultural diversity of birthstone traditions. The chart is designed to be both informative and practical, offering a quick reference for individuals interested in their birthstone or those looking for meaningful jewelry options.
The chart is divided into months, each with its corresponding gemstone or gemstones. Some months have a single official birthstone, while others include multiple options, including traditional, modern, and alternative stones. The chart also includes information on the gemstone’s color, key symbolism, and hardness, as measured on the Mohs scale. This additional information helps users understand the practical and aesthetic qualities of each gemstone.
The modern birthstone chart was first officially established in the United States by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America). Since its creation, the chart has undergone several revisions to include new gemstones and reflect changing trends in the jewelry industry. These revisions ensure that the chart remains relevant and useful for both consumers and professionals.
January – Garnet
Garnet is the official birthstone for January and is also its traditional stone. Garnet is a silicate mineral that comes in a variety of colors, with the most common being red. However, blue garnet, which was discovered in the 1990s, is considered the rarest. Garnet has a reasonably tough Mohs hardness rating of around 7, making it durable enough for everyday wear.
Symbolically, garnet represents constancy and friendship. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and was often worn for protection and to ward off negative energy. In ancient times, garnet was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat ailments such as inflammation and digestive issues. Today, garnet is valued for its beauty and affordability, making it a popular choice for January birthdays.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst is the official and traditional birthstone for February. A type of quartz, amethyst is known for its distinctive purple color, which ranges from light lavender to deep violet. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications.
Amethyst is associated with peace, protection, and tranquility. It has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for thousands of years, with many cultures believing it has calming properties. In ancient Greece, amethyst was believed to prevent intoxication, and it was often used in drinking vessels. Today, amethyst is a popular gemstone for February birthdays and is often chosen for its beauty and symbolic meaning.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine is the modern birthstone for March, while bloodstone is considered the traditional stone for the month. Aquamarine is a type of beryl, known for its light blue color, which is often compared to the color of the sea. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for jewelry use.
Aquamarine symbolizes courage, honesty, and loyalty. It has been used in jewelry for centuries, with many cultures attributing protective properties to the stone. In ancient times, sailors believed that aquamarine could protect them from the dangers of the sea. Today, aquamarine is a popular choice for March birthdays and is valued for its beauty and durability.
April – Diamond
Diamond is the official and traditional birthstone for April. It is the hardest natural substance on the Mohs scale, with a rating of 10. Diamonds are formed under high pressure and temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle and are known for their brilliance and durability.
Diamonds symbolize love, purity, and strength. They have been used in jewelry for centuries, with their popularity increasing in the 20th century due to marketing campaigns that emphasized their value as symbols of eternal love. Today, diamonds are a popular choice for April birthdays and are often used in engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry pieces.
May – Emerald
Emerald is the official and traditional birthstone for May. A type of beryl, emerald is known for its rich green color, which is caused by the presence of chromium or vanadium. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewelry use.
Emerald symbolizes rebirth, love, and wisdom. It has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for centuries, with many cultures attributing healing properties to the stone. In ancient times, emerald was believed to have protective qualities and was used in amulets and talismans. Today, emerald is a popular choice for May birthdays and is valued for its beauty and symbolic meaning.
June – Pearl and Alexandrite
June has two official birthstones: pearl and alexandrite. Pearl is also considered a traditional stone for the month, while alexandrite is a more modern addition. Pearls are organic gemstones formed within the soft tissue of living shelled mollusks. They have a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, making them relatively soft and requiring careful handling.
Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and faith. They have been used in jewelry for centuries and were highly valued by royalty and nobility. Alexandrite, on the other hand, is a type of chrysoberyl that changes color under different lighting conditions. It has a hardness of 8.5 to 9 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than pearls.
Both pearls and alexandrite are popular choices for June birthdays. Pearls are often used in classic jewelry designs, while alexandrite is valued for its unique color-changing properties.
July – Ruby
Ruby is the official and traditional birthstone for July. A type of corundum, ruby is known for its deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones.
Ruby symbolizes passion, protection, and prosperity. It has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for centuries, with many cultures attributing powerful properties to the stone. In ancient times, ruby was believed to bring good fortune and was often worn by royalty and warriors. Today, ruby is a popular choice for July birthdays and is valued for its beauty and symbolic meaning.
August – Peridot and Spinel
August has two official birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot is a type of olivine known for its vibrant green color, while spinel is a different mineral that can come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, and orange. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, while spinel has a hardness of 8 on the scale.
Peridot symbolizes strength, good fortune, and peace. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and was believed to have protective properties. Spinel, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the birthstone chart and is valued for its vibrant colors and durability.
Both peridot and spinel are popular choices for August birthdays. Peridot is often used in affordable jewelry designs, while spinel is valued for its versatility and beauty.
September – Sapphire
Sapphire is the official and traditional birthstone for September. A type of corundum, sapphire is known for its deep blue color, although it can come in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, and green. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones.
Sapphire symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for centuries, with many cultures attributing powerful properties to the stone. In ancient times, sapphire was believed to bring good fortune and was often worn by royalty and warriors. Today, sapphire is a popular choice for September birthdays and is valued for its beauty and symbolic meaning.
October – Opal and Tourmaline
October has two official birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Opal is an amorphous gemstone known for its unique play-of-color, while tourmaline is a crystalline gemstone that can come in a variety of colors. Opal has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, while tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the scale.
Opal symbolizes hope, creativity, and innocence. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and was believed to have protective properties. Tourmaline, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the birthstone chart and is valued for its vibrant colors and durability.
Both opal and tourmaline are popular choices for October birthdays. Opal is often used in unique jewelry designs, while tourmaline is valued for its versatility and beauty.
November – Topaz and Citrine
November has two official birthstones: topaz and citrine. Topaz is a silicate mineral known for its range of colors, while citrine is a variety of quartz that has a yellow to orange color. Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, while citrine has a hardness of 7 on the scale.
Topaz symbolizes love, affection, and strength. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and was believed to have protective properties. Citrine, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the birthstone chart and is valued for its vibrant colors and affordability.
Both topaz and citrine are popular choices for November birthdays. Topaz is often used in classic jewelry designs, while citrine is valued for its versatility and beauty.
December – Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon
December has three official birthstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. Turquoise is a traditional gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry and spiritual practices. Zircon is a versatile gemstone that can come in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, and green.
Tanzanite symbolizes protection, healing, and wisdom. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewelry use. Turquoise symbolizes protection, healing, and wisdom. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the scale. Zircon symbolizes success, prosperity, and wisdom. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the scale.
All three gemstones are popular choices for December birthdays. Tanzanite is often used in modern jewelry designs, while turquoise and zircon are valued for their traditional and versatile qualities.
The Evolution of the Birthstone Chart
The birthstone chart has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in the jewelry industry and cultural trends. The modern birthstone chart was first officially established in the United States by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America). Since its creation, the chart has undergone several revisions to include new gemstones and reflect changing trends in the jewelry industry.
The first major revision of the chart added alexandrite to June, citrine to November, and pink tourmaline to October as alternative options. These additions expanded the range of gemstones available for each month and reflected the growing popularity of alternative birthstones.
Tanzanite was added to the chart as a December birthstone, marking the first change to the list in 50 years. Spinel was added to August, providing more color options alongside peridot and sardonyx. These additions reflect the evolving nature of the birthstone chart and its continued relevance in the modern jewelry industry.
Cultural Variations in Birthstone Charts
While the modern birthstone chart is widely used in the United States and other English-speaking countries, there are many cultural variations in birthstone traditions. The traditional British chart includes bloodstone for March and rock crystal for April as alternatives. The Hindu Ayurvedic system is based on astrological signs rather than calendar months. The Tibetan mystical chart features different stones with spiritual significance.
These variations reflect the diverse cultural and historical influences on birthstone traditions. They also highlight the importance of birthstones in different cultures and the ways in which they have been used to convey meaning and symbolism.
Conclusion
The birthstone chart is a fascinating and informative reference that reflects centuries of tradition, symbolism, and gemological science. The modern chart includes both traditional and alternative stones, providing a comprehensive guide to the gemstones associated with each month of the year. These gemstones carry symbolic meanings and have been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for centuries.
The evolution of the birthstone chart reflects changes in the jewelry industry and cultural trends. The addition of new gemstones and the revision of the chart ensure that it remains relevant and useful for both consumers and professionals. Cultural variations in birthstone traditions highlight the diverse influences on the chart and its continued significance in different cultures.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the birthstone chart offers valuable insights into the history, science, and cultural significance of gemstones. It serves as both a practical reference and a window into the rich traditions that have shaped our understanding of birthstones over time.