Birthstones are more than just pretty gems—they are symbols of identity, tradition, and personal significance. Each month of the year is associated with a specific gemstone, often accompanied by additional stones that share similar hues or meanings. These colorful gems have been cherished for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for the symbolic power they hold. From the deep red of January’s garnet to the radiant blue of December’s turquoise, birthstones reflect the diversity of the natural world and the human spirit.
This article provides an in-depth exploration of the colors of birthstones by month, drawing on historical context, gemological properties, and cultural symbolism. It is designed to be a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those curious about the meaning behind the stones associated with their birth months.
Introduction
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with roots in biblical traditions and early cultural practices. Over the centuries, these gemstones have been assigned to specific months, each with a distinct color and meaning. The modern list of birthstones was largely formalized in the 1950s by the American National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America), though the practice of associating stones with months predates this by thousands of years.
The colors of birthstones vary widely, from fiery reds and vibrant pinks to tranquil blues and rich greens. Each hue is not only a visual delight but also carries a unique history and symbolism. Understanding these colors and their associations can deepen one’s appreciation for gemstones and their cultural significance.
In the following sections, we will explore the birthstone colors for each month, along with their historical and symbolic backgrounds, and their place in the world of jewelry and gemology.
History and Lore of Birthstones
The concept of associating gemstones with the months of the year has ancient roots. One of the earliest references to birthstones can be found in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Exodus (28:15–30), where the High Priest’s breastplate is described as being adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This tradition is considered the foundation of the modern birthstone calendar.
Over time, these stones were gradually associated with the twelve apostles and, eventually, with the twelve months of the year. By the 14th century, the idea of wearing a gemstone corresponding to one’s birth month had taken root in Europe. The practice gained popularity during the Victorian era, when jewelry became a means of personal expression and symbolism.
The modern American birthstone list was standardized in the 1950s, with some adjustments made over the decades. For instance, the birthstone for December was expanded from one to three stones—tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise—due to the discovery of tanzanite in the 1960s in Tanzania.
Throughout history, birthstones have been believed to offer protection, bring good fortune, and enhance personal traits. These beliefs vary across cultures but often emphasize the gemstone’s color and its symbolic meaning.
Birthstone Colors by Month
The following table summarizes the primary birthstone colors for each month, along with any additional or alternative stones that are also associated with that month.
| Month | Primary Birthstone(s) | Colors |
|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | Deep red |
| February | Amethyst | Purple |
| March | Aquamarine | Blue |
| April | Diamond | Colorless |
| May | Emerald | Green |
| June | Pearl, Alexandrite | Colorless (pearl), color-changing |
| July | Ruby | Red |
| August | Peridot, Spinel | Green, red |
| September | Sapphire | Blue |
| October | Opal, Tourmaline | Multicolored, pink, red |
| November | Topaz, Citrine | Yellow, orange |
| December | Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise | Blue, purple, blue |
January – Garnet
Color: Deep red
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Fertility, rebirth, self-confidence, emotional strength
Garnet, the birthstone of January, is a deep red gemstone that has been cherished for its beauty and symbolism since ancient times. The name "garnet" is derived from the Latin word granatus, meaning "pomegranate," due to the fruit-like color of the stone. Garnet is believed to represent fertility and rebirth, and it is also associated with opening new opportunities and gaining wisdom.
Historically, garnet was a favorite of Egyptian pharaohs, who often wore jewelry studded with these red gems. In the Victorian era, garnet was a popular gemstone for fine jewelry and crowns. It is also the gemstone that marks the second wedding anniversary.
Garnet is found in various parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Brazil, Iran, and Afghanistan. Its deep red color makes it a striking and meaningful gemstone for those born in January.
February – Amethyst
Color: Purple
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Clarity, calmness, protection, spiritual growth
Amethyst, the purple birthstone of February, is a gemstone known for its calming properties and spiritual significance. In ancient times, amethyst was believed to protect against drunkenness and was worn by those who wanted to maintain sobriety and clarity. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not drunken."
Amethyst is a variety of quartz and is known for its soothing violet color, which ranges from pale lavender to deep purple. It is often used in jewelry and is a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that promotes peace and tranquility.
Amethyst is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Russia. Its versatility in color and its spiritual symbolism make it a cherished gemstone for those born in February.
March – Aquamarine
Color: Blue
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Calmness, protection, courage
Aquamarine, the birthstone of March, is a gemstone known for its serene blue color, reminiscent of the ocean. Its name comes from the Latin words aqua (water) and marinus (of the sea), reflecting its association with the sea and its calming properties.
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl and is often found in shades of blue and green. It is believed to promote calmness, courage, and protection, especially in times of fear or uncertainty. Historically, sailors wore aquamarine to protect them from the dangers of the sea.
Aquamarine is found in several countries, including Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, and Afghanistan. Its refreshing color and positive symbolism make it a popular choice for those born in March.
April – Diamond
Color: Colorless (often with subtle hints of other colors)
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Purity, strength, eternal love
Diamond, the birthstone of April, is the hardest natural substance on Earth and is known for its brilliance and durability. Its colorless appearance, often with a subtle hint of other colors, makes it a symbol of purity and strength.
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under intense heat and pressure and are brought to the surface through volcanic activity. They are found in countries such as South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
Diamonds are also associated with eternal love and are the traditional gemstone for engagement rings. Their timeless beauty and enduring strength make them a meaningful choice for those born in April.
May – Emerald
Color: Green
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Fertility, love, renewal, balance
Emerald, the birthstone of May, is a vibrant green gemstone that symbolizes fertility, love, and renewal. It is a variety of beryl and is known for its rich green color, which comes from trace amounts of chromium or vanadium.
Emeralds have been prized for centuries for their beauty and symbolism. In ancient times, they were believed to bring balance and harmony to the wearer. They were also associated with love and were often used in romantic jewelry.
Emeralds are found in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Egypt. Their lush green color and rich history make them a cherished gemstone for those born in May.
June – Pearl, Alexandrite
Colors: Colorless (pearl), color-changing (alexandrite)
Additional Stone: Alexandrite
Symbolism: Purity, innocence, adaptability, transformation
June is unique in that it has two birthstones: the pearl and the alexandrite. The pearl is a natural gemstone formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk, while the alexandrite is a rare and color-changing gemstone.
The pearl symbolizes purity and innocence, making it a popular choice for wedding jewelry. It is also associated with motherhood and is believed to enhance nurturing qualities.
Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl that changes color depending on the light source. It is known for its adaptability and transformation and is a symbol of change and evolution.
Pearls are found in various parts of the world, including Japan, China, and the Persian Gulf, while alexandrite is found in Brazil and Russia. These two gemstones offer a unique and meaningful choice for those born in June.
July – Ruby
Color: Red
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Passion, love, power, vitality
Ruby, the birthstone of July, is a deep red gemstone that symbolizes passion, love, and power. It is a variety of corundum and ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamond. Rubies are some of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world.
Ruby is often associated with vitality and energy, and it is believed to bring strength and courage to the wearer. Historically, rubies were worn by royalty and were considered a symbol of power and prestige.
Rubies are found in countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique. Their rich red color and powerful symbolism make them a cherished gemstone for those born in July.
August – Peridot, Spinel
Colors: Green, red
Additional Stone: Spinel
Symbolism: Strength, clarity, protection, love
August has two birthstones: the peridot and the spinel. The peridot is a green gemstone that symbolizes strength, clarity, and protection. It is a variety of olivine and is known for its vibrant green color, which ranges from yellow-green to deep green.
Spinel is a red gemstone that is often mistaken for ruby due to its similar color and appearance. It is a more affordable alternative to ruby and is also used in jewelry. Spinel is believed to bring love and passion to the wearer.
Peridot is found in countries such as Egypt, the United States, and China, while spinel is found in countries such as Myanmar, Tanzania, and Vietnam. These two gemstones offer a meaningful and beautiful choice for those born in August.
September – Sapphire
Color: Blue
Additional Stone: None
Symbolism: Wisdom, loyalty, truth, protection
Sapphire, the birthstone of September, is a deep blue gemstone that symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and truth. It is a variety of corundum and is one of the four precious gemstones, along with diamond, ruby, and emerald.
Sapphires are known for their durability and brilliance and are often used in fine jewelry. They are also associated with protection and are believed to bring good fortune and strength to the wearer.
Sapphires are found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Australia. Their deep blue color and rich symbolism make them a cherished gemstone for those born in September.
October – Opal, Tourmaline
Colors: Multicolored (opal), pink, red (tourmaline)
Additional Stone: Tourmaline
Symbolism: Creativity, inspiration, joy, love
October has two birthstones: the opal and the tourmaline. The opal is a unique gemstone known for its multicolored play of light, which makes it a symbol of creativity and inspiration. It is a non-crystalline mineral and is known for its iridescent appearance.
Tourmaline is a colorful gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, including pink and red. It is believed to bring joy and love to the wearer and is often used in jewelry for its vibrant appearance.
Opals are found in countries such as Australia, Ethiopia, and Brazil, while tourmaline is found in countries such as Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. These two gemstones offer a vibrant and meaningful choice for those born in October.
November – Topaz, Citrine
Colors: Yellow, orange
Additional Stone: Citrine
Symbolism: Strength, confidence, success, prosperity
November has two birthstones: the topaz and the citrine. The topaz is a yellow gemstone that symbolizes strength, confidence, and success. It is a durable gemstone that is often used in jewelry and is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the wearer.
Citrine is an orange gemstone that is a variety of quartz and is known for its warm, inviting color. It is believed to bring joy and positivity to the wearer and is often used in jewelry for its vibrant appearance.
Topaz is found in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Russia, while citrine is found in countries such as Brazil, Spain, and the United States. These two gemstones offer a warm and meaningful choice for those born in November.
December – Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise
Colors: Blue, purple, blue
Additional Stone: Zircon, Turquoise
Symbolism: Transformation, clarity, protection, peace
December is the only month with three birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. Tanzanite is a deep blue and purple gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. It is known for its vibrant color and is believed to bring clarity and transformation to the wearer.
Zircon is a colorless gemstone that can be found in blue as well. It is a durable gemstone that is often used in jewelry and is believed to bring protection and strength to the wearer.
Turquoise is a blue gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry and is believed to bring peace and protection to the wearer.
These three gemstones offer a unique and meaningful choice for those born in December, with their vibrant colors and rich symbolism.
Conclusion
Birthstones are more than just beautiful gems—they are symbols of identity, tradition, and personal significance. Each month of the year is associated with a unique gemstone, and these stones carry rich histories, symbolic meanings, and cultural significance. From the deep red of January’s garnet to the radiant blue of December’s turquoise, birthstones reflect the diversity of the natural world and the human spirit.
Understanding the colors and meanings of birthstones can deepen one’s appreciation for gemstones and their role in history, culture, and personal expression. Whether worn as jewelry or kept as a meaningful keepsake, birthstones offer a unique and beautiful way to connect with one’s identity and heritage.