Birthstones have long fascinated humans with their beauty, symbolism, and perceived mystical properties. These gemstones are traditionally associated with the month of a person’s birth and are believed to carry unique meanings, powers, and even healing properties. The modern birthstone tradition is rooted in ancient lore, evolving over centuries to include both historical and contemporary interpretations. This article delves into the full range of birthstones for each month, comparing the modern list with its ancient counterparts and exploring the historical, cultural, and gemological significance of each stone.
History and Origin of Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months of the year dates back to biblical times. One of the earliest references to birthstones is found in the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus. According to this text, Aaron, the high priest of the Israelites, wore a sacred breastplate adorned with 12 gemstones, each representing one of the 12 tribes of Israel. By the first century A.D., the Jewish historian Josephus connected these stones with the 12 zodiac signs, establishing a symbolic link between gemstones and celestial influence.
The concept of birthstones as they are known today began to take shape in the 18th century. It was not until 1912 that the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) formalized the modern birthstone list, standardizing the association of gemstones with specific months. This list has largely remained unchanged since its creation, with a few notable additions over the decades.
Three distinct sets of birthstones are now recognized:
- Ancient Birthstones: Based on biblical and early zodiacal traditions.
- Traditional Birthstones: A mix of ancient and evolving practices.
- Modern Birthstones: The official list standardized by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912.
While the modern list is widely accepted and used in the jewelry industry, the ancient and traditional lists are still referenced by some individuals and practitioners, especially in the context of metaphysical or historical traditions.
The Modern Birthstone List
The modern list of birthstones, as established in 1912 and updated over the years, associates each month with a specific gemstone. Some months have multiple stones, reflecting both historical preferences and the addition of new discoveries.
Below is the complete modern list, as recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA):
| Month | Modern Birthstone(s) |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl, Alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot, Spinel |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Tourmaline, Opal |
| November | Topaz, Citrine |
| December | Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise |
This list has seen a few revisions over time. For example, Alexandrite was added to June in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and Spinel was added to August in 2016 by the AGTA and JA. These additions reflect the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition and the introduction of new gemstones into the market.
The Ancient Birthstone List
The ancient list of birthstones differs significantly from the modern one. While the modern list is based on a more standardized and commercially driven approach, the ancient list contains a mix of gemstones that were historically used in different regions and cultures.
Here is a comparison of the ancient and modern birthstones for each month:
| Month | Modern Birthstone(s) | Ancient Birthstone(s) |
|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
| April | Diamond | Diamond |
| May | Emerald | Emerald |
| June | Pearl, Alexandrite | Pearl |
| July | Ruby | Ruby |
| August | Peridot, Spinel | Sardonyx |
| September | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| October | Tourmaline, Opal | Opal |
| November | Topaz, Citrine | Topaz |
| December | Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise | Turquoise |
The ancient list includes stones like Bloodstone, Sardonyx, and Opal, which were popular in early medieval and Renaissance jewelry. These stones often carried specific symbolic or protective meanings. For example, Bloodstone was believed to promote courage and was used in healing rituals.
Although the modern list has largely replaced the ancient one in commercial and cultural contexts, some people still use the ancient list or mix stones from both lists for personal or spiritual reasons.
January Birthstone – Garnet
Modern Birthstone: Garnet
Ancient Birthstone: Garnet
The garnet is the birthstone for January and has been associated with the month since ancient times. It is a group of minerals that share a common crystal structure and chemical composition but vary widely in color. The most common variety is the red garnet, which includes pyrope, almandine, and rhodolite.
Garnets are known for their deep, rich colors and excellent refractive properties, which give them a lively brilliance. Some varieties, like tsavorite and demantoid, are green, while others such as spessartite and hessonite appear in orange, yellow, and brown hues.
Garnet is believed to bring protection, prosperity, and friendship, making it a popular choice for jewelry. In ancient times, it was worn by warriors for courage and was used in Roman and Egyptian jewelry. The name "garnet" comes from the Latin word "granatum", meaning "pomegranate", due to the fruit's red seeds resembling the color of some garnet varieties.
Garnets are relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, making them suitable for daily wear in rings and pendants.
February Birthstone – Amethyst
Modern Birthstone: Amethyst
Ancient Birthstone: Amethyst
The amethyst is the birthstone for February and is known for its striking violet to purple color, which comes from the presence of iron and other metals in its crystal structure. Amethyst was once considered more valuable than rubies and emeralds, especially before large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 18th century.
Amethyst has long been associated with wisdom, calm, and clarity. In ancient Greece, it was believed to protect against intoxication, and it was even worn by royalty and clergy. Today, amethyst is popular for its beauty and is often used in rings, pendants, and bracelets.
With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is durable and suitable for a variety of jewelry types. Its color can fade over time when exposed to prolonged sunlight, so it should be stored away from direct light.
March Birthstone – Aquamarine
Modern Birthstone: Aquamarine
Ancient Birthstone: Bloodstone
Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is a pale blue to blue-green variety of beryl. It is highly prized for its tranquil color, which resembles the sea. Aquamarine is said to bring protection, especially during sea voyages, and was historically used by sailors.
Aquamarine is known for its clarity and is often found in large, clean crystals. The most famous source is the Santa Maria mine in Brazil. It has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it a durable gemstone suitable for daily wear.
In contrast to its traditional counterpart, Bloodstone, aquamarine has a more modern and widely recognized appeal. Bloodstone, on the other hand, was used in ancient times for its supposed healing properties and was associated with courage and vitality.
April Birthstone – Diamond
Modern Birthstone: Diamond
Ancient Birthstone: Diamond
Diamond is the birthstone for April and is perhaps the most well-known gemstone in the world. It is the hardest natural substance on the Mohs scale, with a rating of 10, and is renowned for its brilliance and durability.
Diamonds are formed under extreme pressure and temperature deep within the Earth's mantle. Their name comes from the Greek word "adamas", meaning "unconquerable" or "invincible". Diamonds are often associated with eternal love, strength, and purity, which is why they are so popular in engagement rings.
Diamonds are evaluated using the 4 Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight. They are typically found in colorless or near-colorless forms, though fancy-colored diamonds (such as pink, blue, and yellow) are also highly valued.
May Birthstone – Emerald
Modern Birthstone: Emerald
Ancient Birthstone: Emerald
The emerald is the birthstone for May and is a green variety of beryl. It is prized for its vibrant green color, which comes from chromium or vanadium in its chemical composition. Emeralds have been mined since at least 1500 BC, with early sources in Egypt and later in Colombia, where the most famous emeralds are found.
Emeralds are associated with rebirth, youth, and good fortune. They were highly valued by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Romans, who believed they had healing properties and could improve eyesight.
Emeralds have a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, but they are often oiled or filled to enhance their appearance, which makes them more fragile. They should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water and stored separately to avoid scratches.
June Birthstone – Pearl, Alexandrite
Modern Birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite
Ancient Birthstone: Pearl
June is unique in that it has two modern birthstones: pearl and alexandrite. The pearl has been associated with June since ancient times and was considered a symbol of purity and innocence, especially in Victorian times. Pearls are organic gemstones formed within the soft tissue of a mollusk, and they come in a wide variety of colors and shapes.
Alexandrite, a rare chrysoberyl, was added to the June birthstone list in 1952. It is known for its color-changing properties, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light. This effect, known as the alexandrite effect, is due to the presence of chromium.
Pearls are soft and sensitive, with a Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, and should be handled with care. They can be damaged by moisture, heat, and chemicals, so they should be stored in a soft cloth and cleaned with a damp cloth.
July Birthstone – Ruby
Modern Birthstone: Ruby
Ancient Birthstone: Ruby
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is a red variety of corundum. Its deep red color is due to the presence of chromium or iron. Ruby has been one of the most prized gemstones in history, often referred to as the "king of gems".
Rubies are associated with passion, love, and vitality. In ancient times, they were believed to bring good fortune and protection from disease. The Burma (Myanmar) mines are known for producing some of the finest rubies in the world, particularly the "pigeon's blood" color.
Rubies have a Mohs hardness of 9, making them very durable and suitable for rings, pendants, and bracelets. They should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel
Modern Birthstones: Peridot, Spinel
Ancient Birthstone: Sardonyx
August is the only month with two modern birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot is a green gemstone with a vibrant color that ranges from yellow-green to deep green. It is one of the few gemstones that only occurs in one color.
Peridot is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and spiritual wisdom. It was once known as the "evening emerald" because it sparkles beautifully in candlelight. Peridot is also one of the few gemstones that can be found in meteorites.
Spinel was added to the August birthstone list in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association. It is a brilliant red gemstone that was often mistaken for ruby in the past. Spinel has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it durable and suitable for rings and pendants.
Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, and it is relatively fragile compared to other gemstones. It should be cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth and stored separately to avoid scratches.
September Birthstone – Sapphire
Modern Birthstone: Sapphire
Ancient Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is a blue variety of corundum. While sapphires are most commonly associated with blue, they can also occur in a wide range of colors, including pink, yellow, green, and even colorless. The blue color comes from iron and titanium in the crystal structure.
Sapphires have been cherished for centuries, especially by European royalty. They are associated with wisdom, loyalty, and truth. Some of the most famous sapphires in history come from Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and Kashmir.
Sapphires have a Mohs hardness of 9, making them very durable and suitable for rings and pendants. They can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
October Birthstone – Tourmaline, Opal
Modern Birthstones: Tourmaline, Opal
Ancient Birthstone: Opal
October has two modern birthstones: tourmaline and opal. Tourmaline is a complex mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, blue, and even multicolored. Pink tourmaline was added to the October birthstone list in 1952.
Tourmaline is associated with healing, protection, and emotional balance. It is known for its piezoelectric properties, which means it can generate an electric charge when heated or compressed.
Opal, the other October birthstone, is known for its iridescent play-of-color, which is caused by light diffraction in its microstructure. Opal is one of the most fragile gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6.5, and it is water-sensitive, requiring careful handling.
Tourmaline has a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, making it suitable for rings and pendants. Opal should be stored in a humid environment and cleaned with a soft cloth and water.
November Birthstone – Topaz, Citrine
Modern Birthstones: Topaz, Citrine
Ancient Birthstone: Topaz
November has two modern birthstones: topaz and citrine. Topaz is a silicate mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, but golden topaz is the most popular. It was once believed to have healing and calming properties.
Citrine, a yellow variety of quartz, was added to the November birthstone list in 1952. It is known for its bright, sunny color and is associated with energy, vitality, and good fortune.
Topaz has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it a durable gemstone suitable for rings and pendants. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Citrine has a Mohs hardness of 7, and it is relatively stable and suitable for daily wear. It should be stored separately to avoid scratches.
December Birthstone – Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise
Modern Birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise
Ancient Birthstone: Turquoise
December is the only month with three modern birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania in 1967, is known for its vibrant blue to purple color. It was added to the December birthstone list in 1982 and is one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Zircon, especially the blue variety, was added to the December list in 1982 as well. It is known for its high refractive index, giving it a sparkling appearance similar to diamond. Zircon can be found in a wide range of colors, but the blue variety is the most popular.
Turquoise, the ancient birthstone for December, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and ornamentation. It is a soft, porous stone that is often treated with resin or oil to improve its durability. Turquoise is associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune, and it is especially popular in Native American and Middle Eastern jewelry.
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, and it is oiled or filled to enhance its color and clarity. Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5 and is heat-sensitive, so it should be cleaned carefully. Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it should be stored in a humid environment and cleaned with a soft cloth.
Care and Cleaning of Birthstone Jewelry
Each birthstone has unique physical properties, and proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining their beauty and longevity. Here are some general guidelines:
Hardness and Durability: Harder gemstones (like diamond, ruby, and sapphire) are more durable and can be worn daily. Softer gemstones (like pearl, turquoise, and opal) require more careful handling.
Cleaning: Most gemstones can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners for oiled or filled gemstones (like emerald, tanzanite, and turquoise) as they can cause damage.
Storage: Store gemstones separately to avoid scratches, especially soft stones like pearl, turquoise, and opal. Store them in a soft cloth or padded box.
Avoiding Heat and Chemicals: Some gemstones, such as pearl, turquoise, and opal, are sensitive to heat and chemicals, so they should be removed before bathing, swimming, or using harsh cleaners.
Special Considerations: Opal should be kept in a humid environment to prevent drying out and cracking. Amethyst can fade in sunlight, so it should be stored in the dark.
Conclusion
Birthstones offer a fascinating blend of history, symbolism, and beauty, making them a cherished part of jewelry traditions around the world. From the deep red of garnet to the sparkling blue of tanzanite, each gemstone tells a unique story and carries its own cultural and metaphysical significance. Whether worn for personal meaning, healing properties, or aesthetic appeal, birthstones continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
Understanding the modern and ancient birthstone lists, as well as the gemological properties of each stone, allows for a deeper appreciation of these precious gems. Whether you're selecting a birthstone ring, necklace, or bracelet, knowing the origin, meaning, and care requirements of your gemstone ensures that it remains a beautiful and meaningful piece for generations to come.