The concept of birthstones is deeply rooted in human history, spanning centuries of cultural, spiritual, and decorative significance. These gemstones, each associated with a specific month of the year, have evolved from ancient amulets to treasured pieces of jewelry. The modern birthstone list—standardized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America)—has become the widely recognized reference for gemstones associated with each birth month. Over time, this list has seen additions and adjustments, reflecting changes in gem availability, market trends, and cultural preferences.
This article provides a detailed exploration of the modern birthstone list, including its historical background, the evolution of the list over time, the gemological properties of the featured stones, and the symbolic and metaphysical meanings attributed to them across different cultures. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide will serve as an authoritative reference to the world of birthstones.
The Origins and Evolution of the Modern Birthstone List
The modern birthstone list was first established in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers, an organization that later became known as Jewelers of America. This list was created to standardize the gemstones associated with each month of the year, making it easier for jewelers to market and sell birthstone jewelry. The list was not a new invention but rather a consolidation of various historical and traditional lists that had been used across different cultures for centuries.
Prior to 1912, different cultures had their own variations of birthstone lists. For example, the traditional list, which dates back to the 15th century, included stones such as bloodstone for March and sardonyx for August. These stones were often chosen for their symbolic meanings and were believed to offer protection, healing, and good fortune. The modern list, however, replaced some of these traditional stones with others that were more readily available and fashionable at the time, such as aquamarine for March and peridot for August.
The list has not remained static. Since its creation, it has undergone several revisions. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite for June and pink tourmaline for October. In 1952, blue zircon replaced lapis lazuli for December. In 2002, tanzanite was added to the December list. Most recently, in 2016, spinel was added as an alternative birthstone for August. These changes reflect the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition and the influence of market trends and gemstone availability.
The Modern Birthstone List
The modern birthstone list includes one primary gemstone for each month, though some months also have alternative stones. Below is the complete list of modern birthstones as defined by the Jewelers of America:
| 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 | Opal, Tourmaline |
| November | Topaz, Citrine |
| December | Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon |
Some months, such as June and August, have multiple recognized birthstones, reflecting the diversity of gemstone preferences and availability. For instance, June is associated with both pearl and alexandrite, while August includes peridot and spinel. These additions highlight the flexibility of the birthstone tradition and its ability to adapt to new discoveries and market demands.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Birthstones
The use of gemstones as symbols of the months and zodiac signs has deep historical roots. In the 8th and 9th centuries, birthstones were worn as protective amulets, and many were reserved for royalty and religious figures. By the 16th to 18th centuries, the practice of wearing a birthstone associated with one’s birth month all year round became more common in Poland and Germany, a tradition that persists today.
Ancient cultures also had their own versions of birthstone lists. For example, the Ayurvedic system in India associated different gemstones with each month, while the Hebrew, Arabic, and Hindu traditions had their own interpretations. These ancient lists often included stones such as bloodstone, sardonyx, and turquoise, which were later replaced or supplemented in the modern list.
The symbolism of birthstones varies across cultures. Garnet, for example, was believed to bring peace, prosperity, and health in ancient times. Emerald was associated with wisdom and immortality, while ruby was considered a stone of power and protection. These symbolic meanings continue to influence the way people perceive and use birthstones in jewelry today.
Gemological Properties of the Modern Birthstones
Understanding the gemological properties of each birthstone is essential for appreciating their beauty, durability, and value. Below is an overview of the key gemological characteristics of the modern birthstones, including their hardness, chemical composition, and typical color ranges.
January – Garnet
Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that includes pyrope, almandine, spessartine, andradite, and grossular. The most common color is red, but garnet can also be found in green, orange, yellow, and purple hues. Garnet has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewelry.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz known for its vibrant purple color. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale and is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). Amethyst is often used in rings, pendants, and other types of jewelry due to its affordability and beauty.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a beryl mineral with a blue to blue-green color caused by iron impurities. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and is composed of beryllium aluminum silicate. Aquamarine is highly valued for its clarity and color.
April – Diamond
Diamond is the hardest known natural substance, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice. Diamonds are prized for their brilliance, fire, and durability, making them ideal for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
May – Emerald
Emerald is a variety of beryl that contains chromium or vanadium, giving it its characteristic green color. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Emeralds are known for their rich color and are often cut in emerald or princess cuts to highlight their clarity and brilliance.
June – Pearl and Alexandrite
Pearls are organic gemstones formed in mollusks and have a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. They are composed of calcium carbonate and are known for their luster and iridescence. Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl mineral that changes color from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
July – Ruby
Ruby is a variety of corundum with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum oxide with trace amounts of chromium, which gives it its red color. Rubies are among the most valuable gemstones and are often used in high-end jewelry.
August – Peridot and Spinel
Peridot is a silicate mineral with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its vibrant green color and is often used in rings and earrings. Spinel is a mineral with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and can be found in a range of colors, including red, blue, and pink.
September – Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of corundum with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum oxide with trace amounts of iron and titanium, which give it its blue color. Sapphires are highly durable and are often used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
October – Opal and Tourmaline
Opal is a hydrated amorphous silica with a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its play-of-color, which is caused by the diffraction of light within the stone. Tourmaline is a silicate mineral that can be found in a wide range of colors, including green, pink, and black. It has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
November – Topaz and Citrine
Topaz is a silicate mineral with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its clarity and can be found in a range of colors, including yellow, blue, and pink. Citrine is a variety of quartz with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its golden-yellow color and is often used in rings and pendants.
December – Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its blue-green color and is often used in jewelry and decorative items. Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its violet-blue color and is only found in Tanzania. Blue zircon is a zircon mineral with a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its brilliance and is often used as a diamond alternative.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
In addition to their gemological properties, birthstones are often associated with symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. These beliefs vary across cultures and historical periods, but many of them continue to influence how people perceive and use birthstones in jewelry today.
For example, garnet is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and health. Amethyst is associated with wisdom and clarity of mind. Aquamarine is thought to bring calmness and protection. Diamond is seen as a symbol of eternal love and strength. Emerald is believed to promote fertility and love. Pearl is associated with purity and innocence. Ruby is believed to bring power and protection. Peridot is associated with happiness and healing. Spinel is believed to bring balance and harmony. Sapphire is associated with loyalty and truth. Opal is thought to bring inspiration and creativity. Tourmaline is believed to bring strength and energy. Topaz is associated with good fortune and success. Citrine is believed to bring abundance and positivity. Turquoise is associated with protection and good health. Tanzanite is believed to bring emotional healing and spiritual awareness. Blue zircon is associated with clarity and intuition.
These symbolic meanings are not scientifically proven but are deeply rooted in cultural traditions and continue to influence the way people choose and wear birthstone jewelry.
Care and Maintenance of Birthstone Jewelry
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of birthstone jewelry. The care instructions for each gemstone depend on its hardness, durability, and chemical composition. Below are general guidelines for cleaning and caring for birthstone jewelry, based on the gemological properties of each stone.
Garnet
Garnet can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
Amethyst
Amethyst can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods, as it may cause fading.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
Diamond
Diamond can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for diamonds.
Emerald
Emerald can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
Pearl
Pearl should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using water or chemicals, as they may damage the surface.
Ruby
Ruby can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for rubies.
Peridot
Peridot can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
Spinel
Spinel can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for spinel.
Sapphire
Sapphire can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for sapphires.
Opal
Opal should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using water or chemicals, as they may damage the stone.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for tourmaline.
Topaz
Topaz can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for topaz.
Citrine
Citrine can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for citrine.
Turquoise
Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using water or chemicals, as they may damage the stone.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for blue zircon.
Conclusion
The modern birthstone list, established in 1912, represents a fusion of historical tradition and contemporary gemstone preferences. While the list has undergone revisions over time, it remains the most widely recognized reference for gemstones associated with each birth month. The symbolic and metaphysical meanings of birthstones continue to influence how people choose and wear them, making them more than just decorative objects but also meaningful pieces of jewelry.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply looking for a meaningful gift, the modern birthstone list provides a rich source of inspiration. Each gemstone has its own unique properties, history, and symbolism, making it a treasured part of the world of gemstones. As new gemstones are discovered and added to the list, the tradition of birthstones will continue to evolve, reflecting the enduring fascination with these beautiful and meaningful stones.