The tradition of birthstones, gemstones associated with each month of the year, is a fascinating blend of history, symbolism, and natural beauty. These stones are not only treasured for their aesthetic appeal but also for their long-held associations with luck, healing, and personal significance. Rooted in ancient texts and evolving through centuries, the modern birthstone chart reflects a confluence of cultural traditions, gemological science, and commercial influence.
This article explores the 12 birthstones as defined by the modern list established by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) in 1912. It delves into the historical origins of the birthstone tradition, the gemological properties of each stone, and the cultural and symbolic meanings attributed to them across time. By examining these elements, we uncover a rich tapestry of human connection to the Earth’s natural treasures.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with the earliest known references appearing in the Bible. The Book of Exodus describes the Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred garment worn by the High Priest of the Israelites. This breastplate was adorned with 12 stones, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. These stones were believed to carry divine powers and were used to predict the future or offer protection.
By the first century A.D., the Jewish historian Josephus suggested a connection between these 12 stones and the 12 zodiac signs. Over time, the practice of associating gemstones with the months of the year and the zodiac signs began to take shape. By the 5th century, Christians began to wear all 12 stones together, believing they would offer protection and blessings throughout the year. However, by the 18th and 19th centuries, the practice evolved to wearing one gemstone per month, when it was believed the stone’s powers were strongest.
The modern birthstone list, as we know it today, was officially established in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers. This list was designed to provide consistency and clarity, and it has remained largely unchanged since that time, with only a few additions and modifications in the 20th and 21st centuries. For example, in 2016, spinel was added to the list for August, expanding the range of options available for those born in that month.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each birthstone has a unique geological origin, formed under specific conditions deep within the Earth’s crust. These gemstones are found in various parts of the world, often in regions where the geological conditions are particularly favorable for their formation. The following sections provide an overview of the formation and sources of each of the 12 birthstones according to the modern list.
January: Garnet
Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that occur in a wide range of colors, including red, green, orange, and purple. The most common variety is the red garnet, known as pyrope or almandine. Garnet forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks under high pressure and temperature. It is found in regions such as India, Brazil, and the United States.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is known for its purple color, which is caused by the presence of iron impurities. It forms in geodes and is often found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Russia. Amethyst is a popular gemstone due to its vibrant color and relative affordability.
March: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a type of beryl that is known for its blue to blue-green color. It forms in granitic pegmatites and is found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria. Aquamarine is highly valued for its clarity and brilliant color.
April: Diamond
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth and is formed from carbon under high pressure and temperature deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is found in countries such as Russia, South Africa, and Canada. Diamonds are prized for their brilliance and durability.
May: Emerald
Emerald is a variety of beryl that contains trace amounts of chromium or vanadium, giving it its green color. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found in Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil. Emeralds are highly valued for their color and clarity.
June: Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl that changes color under different lighting conditions. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found in Brazil, India, and Madagascar. Alexandrite is known for its color change and is one of the most valuable gemstones.
July: Ruby
Ruby is a variety of corundum that is known for its red color, caused by the presence of chromium. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Kenya. Rubies are highly valued for their color and durability.
August: Peridot and Spinel
Peridot is a type of olivine that is known for its green color. It forms in volcanic rocks and is found in Arizona, Egypt, and China. Spinel, which was added to the list in 2016, is a mineral that can occur in a wide range of colors, including red, blue, and pink. It is found in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of corundum that can occur in a range of colors, but the most common is blue. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Australia. Sapphires are highly valued for their color and durability.
October: Opal and Tourmaline
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica that is known for its play-of-color. It forms in sedimentary rocks and is found in Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico. Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral that can occur in a wide range of colors. It forms in pegmatites and is found in Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States.
November: Golden Topaz and Citrine
Golden topaz is a variety of topaz that is known for its yellow to orange color. It forms in pegmatites and is found in Brazil, Russia, and the United States. Citrine is a variety of quartz that is known for its yellow to orange color. It forms in geodes and is found in Brazil, Spain, and the United States.
December: Blue Zircon and Tanzanite
Blue zircon is a type of zircon that is known for its blue color. It forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is found in Madagascar, Australia, and Sri Lanka. Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that is known for its blue to violet color. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found only in Tanzania.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, birthstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect the perceived qualities of the gemstone and its association with the month or zodiac sign it represents.
Garnet, for example, has long been associated with protection and vitality. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to have healing properties and was used in amulets to ward off evil. Amethyst, on the other hand, has been linked to sobriety and mental clarity, with the ancient Greeks using it to prevent intoxication.
Aquamarine is often associated with calmness and serenity, making it a popular choice for those seeking peace of mind. Diamond, as the hardest natural substance, symbolizes strength and endurance. Emerald is associated with love and fertility, and has been a favorite gemstone of royalty for centuries.
Alexandrite is believed to bring good luck and is often associated with transformation and adaptability. Ruby is linked to passion and vitality, and has been used in jewelry to symbolize love and power. Peridot is believed to promote emotional healing and is associated with the sun.
Sapphire is often associated with wisdom and truth, and has been used in royal regalia for centuries. Opal is believed to enhance creativity and is associated with the mystical and the unknown. Tourmaline is a versatile gemstone, with different colors associated with different properties, such as protection and emotional balance.
Golden topaz is believed to bring good fortune and is associated with prosperity and joy. Citrine is linked to abundance and is often used to attract wealth and success. Blue zircon is believed to enhance intuition and spiritual growth, while tanzanite is associated with emotional healing and transformation.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has its own specific care requirements, based on its hardness, cleavage, and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Garnet is relatively hard and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Amethyst should be protected from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can cause fading. Aquamarine is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, but should be kept away from harsh chemicals.
Diamond is one of the hardest gemstones and can be cleaned with a diamond-specific solution or warm soapy water. Emerald should be handled with care, as it can be sensitive to heat and chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm soapy water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners.
Alexandrite is a delicate gemstone and should be cleaned gently with warm soapy water. Ruby is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water or a professional ultrasonic cleaner. Peridot is relatively soft and should be kept away from harsh chemicals and heat.
Sapphire is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water or a professional ultrasonic cleaner. Opal is sensitive to dryness and should be stored in a humid environment. Tourmaline is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water.
Golden topaz is durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water or a professional ultrasonic cleaner. Citrine should be protected from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can cause fading. Blue zircon and tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm soapy water, avoiding harsh chemicals and heat.
Conclusion
The 12 birthstones represent a unique intersection of history, gemology, and cultural tradition. Each stone carries its own distinct properties, symbolism, and significance, making them not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. Whether worn for personal significance, as a gift, or for their metaphysical properties, birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.
The evolution of the birthstone tradition reflects the changing understanding of gemstones and their role in human culture. From the sacred stones of the Breastplate of Aaron to the modern list established by the National Association of Jewelers, birthstones have remained a beloved and enduring symbol of personal connection and natural beauty.