Birthstones have long fascinated humanity, serving as more than just decorative elements in jewelry. These gemstones are deeply embedded in history, culture, and spirituality, with each month of the year associated with a unique stone believed to carry specific symbolic and energetic properties. The tradition of assigning gemstones to months of the year dates back centuries, with roots in ancient texts, religious artifacts, and evolving cultural practices. This article explores the modern list of birthstones for each month, drawing on historical context, gemological characteristics, and the meanings attributed to these stones.
The modern system of birthstones was formalized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America). Over the years, this list has been updated to reflect changes in gemstone availability, cultural shifts, and advancements in gemology. For example, in 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite to June’s list, and in 2016, spinel was added as a second birthstone for August. These updates reflect the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition and its continued relevance in the modern world.
This article will explore each of the 12 modern birthstones in detail, highlighting their historical significance, gemological properties, and the meanings associated with them. We will also examine the differences between the modern list and older, traditional systems, such as the ancient list, which dates back to biblical times. By the end of this guide, readers will have a deeper understanding of the gemstone associated with their birth month—and perhaps even a new appreciation for the rich history and symbolism behind these precious stones.
January – Garnet
Garnet is the birthstone for January and is among the most ancient of all birthstones. Its name comes from the Latin word granatum, meaning "pomegranate," a reference to its deep red color, which resembles the fruit’s seeds. While garnet is most commonly associated with a rich red hue, it is actually a group of minerals that can appear in a wide range of colors, including green, orange, yellow, purple, and even black.
In ancient times, garnet was highly valued for its beauty and believed to offer protection. The Romans used garnet in signet rings, while the Egyptians incorporated it into amulets and jewelry. During the Middle Ages, it was thought to prevent nightmares and promote healing, particularly for the heart. Garnet’s symbolism of protection, strength, and devotion continues to be relevant today, making it a powerful and meaningful gemstone for those born in January.
From a gemological perspective, garnet is a relatively hard stone, with a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry, though it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches. Garnet is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is mined in locations such as India, Brazil, and the United States. Its refractive index is relatively high, giving it a lustrous, fiery appearance that enhances its beauty.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is a variety of quartz known for its striking purple color. The name amethyst comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not drunken," as it was believed to protect against the effects of alcohol. This belief dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where amethyst was used in drinking vessels and charms to promote sobriety and clarity.
In addition to its historical significance, amethyst is associated with calmness, wisdom, and spiritual awareness. It is often used in meditation and is believed to enhance intuition and emotional balance. Amethyst is also a symbol of protection and is said to bring stability and peace to its wearer. These properties make it a popular choice for those born in February and for individuals seeking a gemstone to support mental and emotional well-being.
Gemologically, amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and owes its color to the presence of iron impurities and natural irradiation. Amethyst is found in geodes and is commonly mined in Brazil, Uruguay, and Russia. Its high luster and vibrant color make it a popular choice for a variety of jewelry styles, from simple pendants to elegant rings.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is a member of the beryl family, which also includes emerald. Its name means "water of the sea," a reference to its beautiful blue to green-blue color, which resembles the ocean. Aquamarine has been prized for centuries for its clarity and brilliance, and it has been found in ancient Roman and Egyptian jewelry.
Symbolically, aquamarine is associated with serenity, courage, and protection. It is believed to promote calmness and help the wearer communicate more effectively. In some cultures, aquamarine is also considered a stone of love and is used in romantic jewelry. Its soothing properties make it a popular choice for those born in March and for individuals seeking a gemstone to support emotional balance.
From a gemological standpoint, aquamarine is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of beryllium aluminum silicate (Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆) and is often found in granite pegmatites. Aquamarine is typically mined in Brazil, Zambia, and Nigeria. Its high refractive index and strong dispersion give it a brilliant, sparkling appearance that enhances its beauty.
April – Diamond or White Topaz
April is unique in that it has two official birthstones: diamond and white topaz. Diamond is the traditional birthstone for April and is one of the most well-known and highly valued gemstones in the world. Known for its brilliance, hardness, and durability, diamond is often associated with love, commitment, and eternity. Its symbolism of purity and strength makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and other significant jewelry pieces.
White topaz is a modern alternative to diamond and is often used as a more affordable option. It has a similar appearance to diamond, with a clear, colorless hue and a brilliant luster. While it is not as hard as diamond (with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale compared to diamond’s 10), it is still a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. White topaz is believed to promote clarity, communication, and emotional balance, making it a meaningful choice for those born in April.
Diamonds are formed under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle and are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. They are primarily found in South Africa, Russia, and Canada. White topaz is typically found in igneous rocks and is mined in locations such as Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. Both gemstones are popular choices for April birthdays and offer a range of styles and price points to suit different tastes and budgets.
May – Emerald
Emerald is the birthstone for May and is one of the most prized gemstones in the world. A variety of beryl, emerald is known for its rich green color, which is caused by the presence of chromium or vanadium impurities. The name emerald comes from the Latin word smaragdus, meaning "green."
Emerald has been highly valued for centuries, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans using it in jewelry and amulets. It was believed to bring good fortune, wisdom, and protection. In some cultures, emerald is also associated with fertility and love, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Its deep green color and exceptional brilliance make it a symbol of life, renewal, and vitality.
Gemologically, emerald has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and is composed of beryllium aluminum silicate (Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆). Due to the presence of inclusions, emeralds are often treated with oils or resins to enhance their clarity and stability. Emerald is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in locations such as Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. Its high refractive index and strong dispersion give it a brilliant, fiery appearance that enhances its beauty.
June – Alexandrite or Pearl
June is another month with two official birthstones: alexandrite and pearl. Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone that is known for its color-changing properties. In daylight, it appears green, but under incandescent light, it turns red or purple. This unique characteristic makes it a highly sought-after gemstone and a symbol of transformation, adaptability, and emotional balance.
Pearl is the other birthstone for June and is one of the few organic gemstones. Formed within the soft tissue of mollusks such as oysters and mussels, pearls are composed of layers of nacre. They have been prized for centuries for their luster, smoothness, and beauty. In many cultures, pearls are associated with purity, wisdom, and elegance. They are also believed to promote self-confidence and emotional stability.
Alexandrite is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of chrysoberyl (BeAl₂O₄) and is often found in metamorphic rocks. Due to its rarity, alexandrite is quite valuable and is primarily mined in Brazil and Russia. Pearl, on the other hand, is softer, with a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more delicate and requiring gentle care. Pearls are typically cultivated in water bodies such as the Persian Gulf, Japan, and China.
July – Ruby
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. A variety of corundum, ruby is known for its deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium impurities. The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning "red."
Ruby has been prized for centuries for its beauty and symbolic meaning. In ancient times, it was believed to bring protection, good fortune, and power. It was also associated with love and passion, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Ruby is considered a symbol of vitality, courage, and inner strength, making it a meaningful gemstone for those born in July.
Gemologically, ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of chromium. Ruby is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in locations such as Myanmar, Thailand, and Madagascar. Its high refractive index and strong dispersion give it a brilliant, fiery appearance that enhances its beauty.
August – Peridot or Spinel
August is another month with two official birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot is a vibrant green gemstone that is known for its brilliance and clarity. It is one of the few gemstones that only occurs in one color—green—and is formed from a mineral called olivine. Peridot is often associated with vitality, renewal, and emotional balance. It is also believed to promote strength and positivity.
Spinel is the newer addition to August’s list of birthstones and was added in 2016. A gemstone that is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire, spinel has a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, and black. It is known for its brilliance, clarity, and durability. Spinel is associated with passion, energy, and emotional stability. Its vibrant colors and high refractive index make it a beautiful and meaningful gemstone for those born in August.
Peridot is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of magnesium iron silicate (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ and is typically found in volcanic rocks and meteorites. Peridot is mined in locations such as Myanmar, the United States, and Afghanistan. Spinel has a slightly higher hardness, ranging from 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum magnesium oxide (MgAl₂O₄) and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Spinel is mined in locations such as Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
September – Sapphire
Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. A variety of corundum, sapphire is known for its rich blue color, though it can also appear in a range of other colors, including pink, yellow, and green. The name sapphire comes from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning "blue."
Sapphire has been prized for centuries for its beauty and symbolic meaning. In ancient times, it was believed to bring wisdom, protection, and divine favor. It was also associated with loyalty, truth, and nobility, making it a popular choice for royal and religious jewelry. Sapphire is considered a symbol of serenity, clarity, and inner strength, making it a meaningful gemstone for those born in September.
Gemologically, sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of elements such as iron, titanium, or chromium. Sapphire is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in locations such as Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Its high refractive index and strong dispersion give it a brilliant, fiery appearance that enhances its beauty.
October – Tourmaline or Opal
October is another month with two official birthstones: tourmaline and opal. Tourmaline is a colorful gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, blue, and black. It is known for its electrical properties and is often used in energy-related jewelry. Tourmaline is associated with vitality, protection, and emotional balance. It is also believed to promote creativity and self-expression.
Opal is the other birthstone for October and is one of the most unique and colorful gemstones in the world. A hydrated amorphous silica, opal is known for its iridescent play of color, which is caused by the diffraction of light within its structure. Opal is associated with love, intuition, and emotional balance. It is also believed to promote creativity and emotional healing.
Tourmaline is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of a complex silicate structure and is typically found in granite pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. Tourmaline is mined in locations such as Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Opal, on the other hand, is softer, with a hardness of 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more delicate and requiring gentle care. Opal is typically found in sedimentary rocks and is mined in locations such as Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico.
November – Golden Topaz or Citrine
November is another month with two official birthstones: golden topaz and citrine. Golden topaz is a warm, golden-yellow gemstone that is known for its brilliance and clarity. It is associated with warmth, joy, and positivity. It is also believed to promote strength and emotional balance. Golden topaz is a popular choice for jewelry and is often used in rings, pendants, and earrings.
Citrine is the other birthstone for November and is a yellow variety of quartz that is known for its vibrant color and clarity. It is associated with energy, optimism, and prosperity. It is also believed to promote confidence and self-expression. Citrine is a popular choice for jewelry and is often used in rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Golden topaz is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of aluminum silicate and is typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Golden topaz is mined in locations such as Brazil, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Citrine is also a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and is typically found in geodes and metamorphic rocks. Citrine is mined in locations such as Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.
December – Blue Zircon or Tanzanite
December is the final month with two official birthstones: blue zircon and tanzanite. Blue zircon is a vibrant blue gemstone that is known for its brilliance and refractive properties. It is associated with wisdom, transformation, and emotional balance. It is also believed to promote self-confidence and spiritual growth. Blue zircon is a popular choice for jewelry and is often used in rings, pendants, and earrings.
Tanzanite is the other birthstone for December and is a relatively new addition to the modern list. A variety of zoisite, tanzanite is known for its deep blue to violet color and its trichroism, which means it can display three different colors depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is also believed to promote spiritual growth and self-awareness.
Blue zircon is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄) and is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Blue zircon is mined in locations such as Australia, Brazil, and the United States. Tanzanite is also a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of calcium aluminum silicate (CaAl₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)) and is found only in Tanzania, making it a rare and valuable gemstone.
Conclusion
The birthstone tradition is a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the history, symbolism, and beauty of gemstones. Each month has its own unique gemstone, with a rich history and a set of symbolic properties that reflect the qualities and energies associated with that time of year. Whether you are drawn to the fiery red of garnet, the calming blue of aquamarine, the vibrant green of emerald, or the brilliant sparkle of diamond, there is a birthstone that speaks to your individuality and personal journey.
These gemstones are not just decorative objects but are also powerful symbols of identity, protection, and transformation. They have been used in jewelry, amulets, and talismans for centuries, and their meanings continue to evolve and inspire new generations. Whether you are celebrating your own birthday or giving a meaningful gift to someone special, a birthstone is a timeless and elegant way to honor the beauty of nature, the richness of history, and the depth of human connection.