In the rich and ancient tradition of birthstones, a fascinating feature emerges: several months are associated with more than one gemstone. This multiplicity reflects not only the evolving nature of gemological practices but also the deep cultural and spiritual significance that various stones have held across centuries. For gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, understanding why certain months have multiple birthstones—and the meanings behind these choices—adds a layer of depth to the appreciation of these natural treasures.
This article explores the months with two or more birthstones, delving into their historical roots, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings. We also examine the reasons behind the inclusion of multiple stones for these months, including shifts in availability, cultural influences, and the evolving preferences of the jewelry trade.
Spotlight on Months with Multiple Birthstones
The idea of assigning gemstones to each month of the year dates back to ancient times, with roots in both Jewish and Greek traditions. The earliest known reference comes from the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial garment described in the Old Testament, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with the zodiac signs and eventually with the months of the year. As gemology advanced and new gem varieties were discovered or became more accessible, the list of birthstones expanded and evolved.
The National Association of Jewelers in the United States formalized the first standardized list of birthstones in 1912. This list was later revised in the 1950s and the early 21st century to reflect changes in gem availability, cultural preferences, and modern discoveries. These revisions led to the inclusion of additional stones for several months, particularly those with multiple birthstones today.
Currently, the months with two or more birthstones include:
- March – Aquamarine and Bloodstone
- June – Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
- August – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
- October – Opal and Tourmaline
- November – Topaz and Citrine
- December – Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
Each of these months reflects a unique blend of historical, symbolic, and practical considerations that have influenced the selection of their respective birthstones.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
March is represented by two distinct gemstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. These stones have been historically significant in different ways and continue to hold symbolic and practical value in modern gemology.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family and is known for its pale blue to green-blue color, which resembles the color of the sea. Its name comes from the Latin words aqua (water) and marinus (of the sea). The stone has long been associated with calm and serenity, making it a fitting symbol for March, a transitional month between winter and spring.
Aquamarine is typically found in granitic rocks and is mined in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria. It has a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry. Its refractive index is approximately 1.57–1.60, and it is often cut in brilliant or emerald styles to enhance its clarity and brilliance.
Symbolically, Aquamarine is believed to promote courage and confidence. In ancient times, sailors carried aquamarine for protection during sea voyages, believing it to be a talisman of good fortune and safety.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope, is a variety of chalcedony that features a green base with red spots that resemble drops of blood. This stone has a long history of use in both jewelry and healing practices. The red spots are caused by iron oxide inclusions, and the green background is due to chlorite or other minerals.
Bloodstone has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale and is often used in cabochon cuts to showcase its unique pattern. It is found in several locations around the world, including India, Brazil, and the United States.
Historically, Bloodstone was believed to have powerful healing properties. In medieval Europe, it was used in amulets to stop bleeding and was associated with the blood of Christ in Christian traditions. It was also thought to promote strength and vitality, making it a popular choice for warriors and athletes.
Together, Aquamarine and Bloodstone represent the duality of March: the calm, clear waters of spring and the strength and vitality of the earth.
June: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June is unique in that it is associated with three different birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone. These stones reflect a wide range of symbolic meanings and gemological properties.
Pearl
Pearls are not mined from the earth like other gemstones but are formed within the soft tissue of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. They are composed primarily of calcium carbonate in the form of aragonite or calcite. Pearls are typically white or cream-colored, though they can also be pink, black, or even iridescent.
Pearls are relatively soft, with a hardness of 2.5–4.5 on the Mohs scale, making them delicate and requiring careful handling. They are often used in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, particularly for formal occasions. Pearl jewelry has been popular for centuries, especially among royalty and aristocrats.
Symbolically, pearls are associated with purity, wisdom, and elegance. In ancient Greece, pearls were believed to be tears of the gods, while in China, they were seen as symbols of the moon and immortality. Today, pearls continue to be a classic and timeless choice for jewelry.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and highly prized gemstone that is a variety of chrysoberyl. It is known for its unique color-changing property, appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light. This phenomenon is due to the presence of chromium in the crystal structure.
Alexandrite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world and is often considered a "fairy stone" due to its magical qualities. It is primarily found in Russia, Brazil, and Sri Lanka. It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for jewelry use.
Symbolically, Alexandrite is associated with transformation, balance, and intuition. It is believed to enhance emotional stability and promote adaptability in times of change. In some cultures, it is also thought to bring good luck and protection.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a type of feldspar that is known for its iridescent sheen, called adularescence, which creates a soft, shimmering effect. It is typically white, gray, or translucent, with a pearly luster. Moonstone is often cut in a cabochon style to enhance its visual appeal.
Moonstone is found in various parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, and the United States. It has a hardness of 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and requiring careful handling.
Symbolically, Moonstone is associated with feminine energy, intuition, and emotional balance. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance psychic sensitivity and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was believed to be the stone of the moon goddess, and it continues to be a popular choice for those seeking emotional clarity and spiritual insight.
Together, these three gemstones represent the duality and complexity of June: the timeless elegance of pearls, the magical transformation of Alexandrite, and the mystical intuition of Moonstone.
August: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
August is represented by three gemstones: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx. Each of these stones has a distinct history, appearance, and symbolism, making August a particularly rich and diverse birthstone month.
Peridot
Peridot is a silicate mineral that is known for its vibrant green color. It is found in volcanic rocks and is often associated with fire and light. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale and is typically found in shades of yellow-green to deep green.
Peridot is one of the oldest gemstones known to humankind, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt. It was believed to have protective powers, particularly against nightmares and negative energy. In some cultures, it was thought to bring joy and vitality to the wearer.
Peridot is found in several parts of the world, including the United States, Myanmar, and China. It is often cut in brilliant or emerald styles to enhance its clarity and brilliance.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that is chemically and structurally similar to ruby and sapphire but is a distinct species. It is known for its vibrant colors, including red, pink, orange, and blue. Spinel is often mistaken for ruby due to its similar appearance, particularly in the red variety.
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and is found in several locations around the world, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Vietnam. It is prized for its brilliance and durability, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Symbolically, Spinel is associated with passion, vitality, and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to express emotions and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony that is characterized by its alternating bands of red and white or brown and white. The red color is due to the presence of iron oxide, while the white or brown is from the quartz base. Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale and is often cut in cabochon or engraved styles.
Historically, Sardonyx was highly valued for its protective and grounding properties. It was used in ancient Rome and Greece for seals and amulets. It was believed to promote courage, strength, and stamina, making it a popular choice for warriors and athletes.
In modern times, Sardonyx is still appreciated for its symbolic meanings and its aesthetic appeal. It is often used in rings, pendants, and other types of jewelry.
Together, these three stones represent the energy and vitality of August: the protective power of Peridot, the passion and vibrancy of Spinel, and the strength and resilience of Sardonyx.
October: Opal and Tourmaline
October is represented by two gemstones: Opal and Tourmaline. Both of these stones are known for their vibrant colors and unique properties, making them a favorite among gemstone collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Opal
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica and is known for its play of color, a phenomenon in which the stone displays flashes of different colors under light. Opal is found in several parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, and the United States. It is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale, and requires careful handling.
Opal has a long and storied history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Rome. It was believed to bring good fortune and was also associated with love and passion. In some cultures, it was thought to be a protective stone that could ward off evil.
Symbolically, Opal is associated with creativity, emotional depth, and inspiration. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance psychic sensitivity and emotional healing.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral that is known for its wide variety of colors, including pink, green, blue, and even combinations of multiple colors in a single stone. Tourmaline is found in several locations around the world, including Brazil, Afghanistan, and the United States.
Tourmaline has a hardness of 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry. It is prized for its brilliance and durability, as well as its unique color combinations.
Symbolically, Tourmaline is associated with compassion, protection, and healing. It is believed to enhance emotional balance and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience. In some cultures, it is also thought to bring good luck and to protect the wearer from negative energy.
Together, Opal and Tourmaline represent the vibrant and dynamic nature of October: the magical play of color in Opal and the compassionate and protective energy of Tourmaline.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November is represented by two gemstones: Topaz and Citrine. Both of these stones are known for their vibrant colors and symbolic meanings, making them a popular choice for jewelry and spiritual practices.
Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that is known for its brilliant colors, including yellow, blue, and pink. It is found in several parts of the world, including Brazil, India, and the United States. Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry.
Topaz has a long and storied history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece. It was believed to have protective and healing properties, and it was often used in amulets and talismans. In some cultures, it was thought to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from harm.
Symbolically, Topaz is associated with clarity, strength, and wisdom. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance emotional balance and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Citrine
Citrine is a variety of quartz that is known for its warm, golden-yellow color. It is found in several parts of the world, including Brazil, Russia, and the United States. Citrine has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry.
Citrine has a long history of use in both jewelry and healing practices. It was believed to bring good luck and to promote happiness and joy. In some cultures, it was also thought to enhance creativity and to promote emotional healing.
Symbolically, Citrine is associated with abundance, optimism, and vitality. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance emotional balance and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Together, Topaz and Citrine represent the warmth and vitality of November: the brilliant clarity of Topaz and the golden optimism of Citrine.
December: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
December is represented by three gemstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. These stones reflect the rich history and cultural significance of the month, as well as their unique gemological properties.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper and is known for its striking blue-green color. It is found in several parts of the world, including the United States, Iran, and China. Turquoise has a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and requiring careful handling.
Turquoise has a long and storied history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Americas. It was believed to have protective and healing properties and was often used in amulets and talismans. In some cultures, it was also thought to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from harm.
Symbolically, Turquoise is associated with protection, wisdom, and spiritual insight. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance emotional balance and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare and highly prized gemstone that is a variety of zoisite. It is known for its deep blue to violet color and is found exclusively in Tanzania. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale and is often cut in brilliant or emerald styles to enhance its brilliance.
Tanzanite was officially recognized as a birthstone in 2002, making it one of the newer additions to the birthstone list. It was believed to bring good fortune and to promote emotional healing. In some cultures, it was also thought to enhance intuition and to promote spiritual insight.
Symbolically, Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and emotional balance. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance emotional clarity and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral that is known for its brilliant colors, including blue, green, and red. It is found in several parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Zircon has a hardness of 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry.
Zircon has a long history of use in both jewelry and healing practices. It was believed to have protective and healing properties and was often used in amulets and talismans. In some cultures, it was also thought to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from harm.
Symbolically, Zircon is associated with clarity, strength, and wisdom. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance emotional balance and to promote a sense of inner strength and resilience.
Together, these three stones represent the rich history and cultural significance of December: the protective wisdom of Turquoise, the intuitive insight of Tanzanite, and the vibrant clarity of Zircon.
Conclusion
The tradition of assigning multiple birthstones to certain months reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of gemology, as well as the deep cultural and symbolic meanings that gemstones have held throughout history. From the protective and grounding energies of March’s Bloodstone to the magical transformations of June’s Alexandrite, each dual or multiple birthstone month offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of gemstone symbolism and history.
For gemstone enthusiasts, these multiple birthstones provide a broader range of choices, allowing individuals to select a stone that resonates with their personal preferences, spiritual beliefs, and aesthetic tastes. Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of pearls, the vibrant clarity of topaz, or the magical play of color in opal, the world of birthstones offers something for everyone.
Understanding the history, properties, and symbolism of these gemstones not only enhances our appreciation of their beauty but also connects us to the ancient traditions and beliefs that have shaped the way we view these natural treasures.