The concept of birthstones—gemstones associated with specific months or zodiac signs—has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From ancient religious artifacts to modern jewelry, these gemstones have been cherished for their beauty, symbolism, and perceived powers. The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months was officially standardized in the early 20th century by the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now known as Jewelers of America), and has since evolved to include new discoveries and cultural shifts. This article explores the official birthstones by month, their historical roots, their gemological properties, and their cultural significance.
Introduction
The idea that certain gemstones are linked to specific months of the year is a tradition that has captivated people for centuries. While the exact origins of this practice remain a topic of scholarly debate, it is widely believed to have roots in biblical and ancient zodiac traditions. The modern list of birthstones was officially established in 1912 and has since been updated to reflect new discoveries and cultural changes. Today, each month is associated with one or more gemstones that are celebrated for their unique beauty, symbolic meaning, and historical significance.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the official birthstones by month, including their historical context, gemological properties, and cultural lore. The information presented is drawn from authoritative sources and is intended to offer readers a deeper understanding of these cherished gemstones.
History and Lore
Ancient Origins
The earliest known reference to gemstones associated with the months of the year comes from the first-century historian Flavius Josephus, who studied the Book of Exodus. According to this biblical text, Aaron, the brother of Moses, wore a breastplate adorned with 12 gemstones, one for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. Josephus interpreted these stones as corresponding to the months of the year and the zodiac signs, laying the foundation for the tradition of birthstones. However, the exact identities of the stones remain uncertain due to the limited gemological knowledge of the time.
In the Middle Ages, the practice of wearing a gemstone associated with one's birth month became more widespread. Religious treatises from the 8th and 9th centuries linked specific stones to the apostles and their virtues, reinforcing the idea that gemstones could represent both spiritual and personal qualities. This custom gradually evolved into the modern practice of wearing a single gemstone for each month.
Standardization of the Modern List
The modern list of birthstones was officially established in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Association, now known as Jewelers of America. This organization sought to create a standardized list that could be used across the United States and help promote the jewelry industry. The list was updated in 1952 and again in 2002 and 2019 to include newly discovered or newly appreciated gemstones.
In 2002, tanzanite was added to the list as a December birthstone, reflecting both its recent discovery in Tanzania and its growing popularity in the jewelry market. In 2019, spinel was added as an alternative birthstone for August, alongside peridot and sardonyx, recognizing its similarity to peridot and its increasing recognition among gemologists.
Official Birthstones by Month
The following is the current official list of birthstones by month, as defined by the American National Retail Jewelers Association and updated through the years:
| Month | Birthstones |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot, Spinel |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal, Tourmaline |
| November | Citrine, Topaz |
| December | Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon |
Each of these gemstones carries its own unique history, symbolism, and gemological properties. Let’s explore them in detail.
January – Garnet
History and Symbolism
Garnet is the birthstone for January and has been associated with this month since ancient times. The name "garnet" comes from the Latin granum, meaning "grain," referring to its resemblance to the red seeds of a pomegranate. Garnet has long been regarded as a symbol of protection, health, and prosperity. It was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote safe travel, making it a popular stone for travelers.
Gemological Properties
Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that come in a wide range of colors, the most common being red. The red garnets include pyrope, almandine, and rhodolite. Other varieties include green garnets like tsavorite and demantoid, orange spessartite, and yellow hessonite. Garnet has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Garnet is generally easy to care for. It can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Due to its moderate hardness, garnet can be worn daily but should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
February – Amethyst
History and Symbolism
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and has been revered for its beauty and symbolic meaning for centuries. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning "not drunken," as it was believed to protect against the effects of alcohol. In ancient times, amethyst was used to make drinking vessels and was associated with sobriety and clarity of mind.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from pale lavender to deep purple. Its color is caused by the presence of iron impurities and natural irradiation. Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Care and Cleaning
Amethyst can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It should not be exposed to prolonged sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade. Amethyst is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures.
March – Aquamarine
History and Symbolism
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and has been associated with the sea and maritime protection. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning "sea water," due to its resemblance to the color of the ocean. In ancient times, sailors carried aquamarine to protect them from the dangers of the sea and to calm turbulent waters.
Gemological Properties
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl and is known for its clear, light blue to greenish-blue color. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Aquamarine can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It is relatively stable and can be worn daily. However, it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
April – Diamond
History and Symbolism
Diamond is the birthstone for April and is perhaps the most well-known and highly valued gemstone in the world. The word "diamond" comes from the Greek adamas, meaning "unbreakable" or "invincible." Diamonds have been symbols of love, strength, and eternity, and have been used in engagement rings for centuries.
Gemological Properties
Diamond is the hardest known natural substance on Earth, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of carbon and is formed under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. Diamonds can be found in a variety of colors, including colorless, yellow, blue, and pink.
Care and Cleaning
Diamonds are extremely durable and can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. They can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Due to their hardness, diamonds can be worn daily and do not require special care.
May – Emerald
History and Symbolism
Emerald is the birthstone for May and has been prized for its vibrant green color and symbolic meaning. The name "emerald" comes from the Greek smaragdus, meaning "green." Emeralds have long been associated with love, fertility, and wisdom. In ancient times, they were believed to bring good fortune and protect the wearer from harm.
Gemological Properties
Emerald is a variety of beryl and is known for its deep 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. Emeralds are often treated with oil or resin to enhance their color and clarity.
Care and Cleaning
Emeralds should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. They should not be exposed to high heat or ultrasonic cleaners, as this can damage the stone. Due to their tendency to be treated, emeralds require careful handling and should be inspected by a gemologist before cleaning.
June – Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite
History and Symbolism
June is associated with three birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history and symbolism. Pearls have long been associated with purity, innocence, and feminine grace. Moonstone is believed to bring calmness and intuition, while alexandrite is known for its color-changing properties and is associated with good fortune.
Gemological Properties
- Pearl: Pearls are organic gemstones formed within the soft tissue of mollusks. They have a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale and are sensitive to chemicals and abrasion.
- Moonstone: Moonstone is a type of feldspar known for its chatoyant effect, which gives it a shimmering, moon-like appearance. It has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Alexandrite: Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl that changes color in different lighting conditions. It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
Care and Cleaning
Each of these gemstones requires special care. Pearls should be cleaned with a soft cloth and stored separately from harder gemstones. Moonstone can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap but should not be exposed to harsh chemicals. Alexandrite is durable but should be cleaned carefully to avoid damage.
July – Ruby
History and Symbolism
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is one of the most precious gemstones in the world. The name "ruby" comes from the Latin ruber, meaning "red." Rubies have long been associated with passion, love, and power. They were believed to bring protection and good fortune to the wearer.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is a variety of corundum, which is the same mineral as sapphire. It is known for its deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium. Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones.
Care and Cleaning
Ruby is extremely durable and can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Due to its hardness, ruby can be worn daily and does not require special care.
August – Peridot, Spinel
History and Symbolism
August is associated with two birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot has long been associated with healing and protection. It was believed to bring good luck and to ward off nightmares. Spinel is a relatively new addition to the list and is known for its vibrant colors and brilliance.
Gemological Properties
- Peridot: Peridot is a silicate mineral known for its vivid green color. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Spinel: Spinel is a mineral that is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar appearance. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and comes in a wide range of colors.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Spinel is durable and can be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
September – Sapphire
History and Symbolism
Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is one of the most valuable and revered gemstones in the world. The name "sapphire" comes from the Greek sappheiros, meaning "blue stone." Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, truth, and nobility. They were worn by royalty and were believed to bring protection and divine favor.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is a variety of corundum, like ruby, and is known for its deep blue color. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. Sapphires can also be found in other colors, including pink, yellow, and green.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphire is extremely durable and can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Due to its hardness, sapphire can be worn daily and does not require special care.
October – Opal, Tourmaline
History and Symbolism
October is associated with two birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Opal has long been associated with creativity and emotional balance. It was believed to bring good luck and to enhance the imagination. Tourmaline is a relatively new addition to the list and is known for its vibrant colors and unique properties.
Gemological Properties
- Opal: Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica and is known for its play-of-color effect. It has a hardness of 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Tourmaline: Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral that comes in a wide range of colors. It has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Care and Cleaning
Opal is sensitive to heat and dryness and should be stored in a cool, moist environment. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm water. Tourmaline is more durable and can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap.
November – Citrine, Topaz
History and Symbolism
November is associated with two birthstones: citrine and topaz. Citrine has long been associated with happiness, energy, and warmth. It was believed to bring good fortune and to promote positive thinking. Topaz is one of the oldest known gemstones and has been associated with strength, wisdom, and courage.
Gemological Properties
- Citrine: Citrine is a variety of quartz known for its golden yellow to orange color. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Topaz: Topaz is a silicate mineral known for its clarity and brilliance. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale.
Care and Cleaning
Citrine and topaz are both durable gemstones that can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. They can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
December – Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon
History and Symbolism
December is associated with three birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. It was used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Aztecs. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in 1967 and is known for its vibrant blue-violet color. Blue zircon is a traditional December birthstone and is known for its brilliance and fire.
Gemological Properties
- Turquoise: Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is often treated to enhance its color and durability.
- Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that is known for its vivid blue-violet color. It has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Blue Zircon: Blue zircon is a type of zircon that is known for its brilliance and fire. It has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm water. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or heat. Tanzanite and blue zircon can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. They should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The tradition of birthstones by month is a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the natural world and our personal histories. From the fiery red of garnet to the deep blue of sapphire, each gemstone carries its own unique history, symbolism, and gemological properties. The official list of birthstones, established and updated over the years, reflects both the evolution of gemology and the changing cultural values of the times. Whether worn as a piece of jewelry or simply admired for its beauty, birthstones continue to captivate and inspire people around the world.