The concept of associating gemstones with birth months has a long and fascinating history, rooted in cultural, spiritual, and commercial traditions. Modern birthstone charts typically list one or more gemstones for each month, with each stone carrying symbolic meanings and believed properties. This article explores the structure, history, and significance of the birthstone by month chart, drawing on authoritative sources to provide a comprehensive overview of this enduring tradition.
Introduction
A birthstone by month chart is a visual representation that links gemstones to the twelve months of the year. These charts often include both traditional and modern stones, with some months offering multiple options. For example, June is associated with both pearl and alexandrite, while October includes tourmaline and opal. The practice of assigning gemstones to specific months is not only a matter of aesthetics but also a reflection of historical and cultural beliefs about the protective and symbolic powers of gemstones.
This article delves into the origins of the birthstone by month chart, the gemological properties of selected stones, and their cultural and spiritual significance. It also examines the differences between traditional and modern lists and discusses the role of organizations such as the National Association of Jewelers and the Jewelry Industry Council of America in shaping these lists.
History and Lore
The origins of the birthstone tradition are shrouded in antiquity, with references to gemstones associated with months and zodiac signs found in ancient texts. One of the earliest known references comes from the biblical Book of Exodus, where Aaron’s breastplate was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing a tribe of Israel. While the specific gemstones are not named in the text, later interpretations have attempted to assign them to the twelve months of the year.
The modern birthstone chart, as we know it today, was first formalized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America). This organization created a standardized list that has remained largely unchanged, with the exception of a few updates over the decades. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite to June and pink tourmaline to October. In 2016, spinel was added as an additional birthstone for August, reflecting the evolving nature of the chart.
The chart includes both traditional and modern stones, with some months having alternative options. For instance, March is traditionally associated with aquamarine but also includes bloodstone as an alternative. Similarly, December has been linked to tanzanite and blue zircon, in addition to the traditional turquoise and lapis lazuli.
These variations reflect the diverse cultural and historical influences on the birthstone tradition. Some stones, such as garnet and amethyst, have been associated with their respective months for centuries, while others, like tanzanite and spinel, are more recent additions.
Geological Formation and Sources
The gemstones included in the birthstone by month chart are found in various parts of the world, each with its unique geological formation process. Understanding where these stones come from and how they are formed adds depth to the appreciation of their significance.
Garnet (January)
Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that form in metamorphic and igneous rocks. The most common varieties, such as almandine and pyrope, are found in schist and gneiss. Garnet is typically found in locations such as India, Sri Lanka, and the United States. The red garnet is the most well-known variety, but blue garnet, which is rare and only discovered in the 1990s, is also a notable variant.
Amethyst (February)
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that forms in geodes and cavities in volcanic rock. It is found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Russia, among other countries. The purple color of amethyst is due to the presence of iron impurities and natural irradiation. Amethyst is relatively abundant and is often used in both jewelry and decorative objects.
Aquamarine (March)
Aquamarine is a type of beryl that forms in granitic pegmatites. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, and Madagascar. The blue color of aquamarine is caused by the presence of iron. This gemstone is known for its clarity and is often used in high-quality jewelry.
Diamond (April)
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions that create kimberlite pipes. Major diamond-producing countries include South Africa, Russia, and Canada. Diamonds are valued not only for their beauty but also for their hardness, which makes them ideal for use in jewelry and industrial applications.
Emerald (May)
Emerald is another variety of beryl that forms in metamorphic rocks. It is found in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. The green color of emerald is due to the presence of chromium or vanadium. Emerald is one of the most valuable gemstones and is highly sought after in the jewelry industry.
Alexandrite (June)
Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl that exhibits a color change from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. It is found in Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka. The color change is due to the presence of chromium. Alexandrite is one of the most expensive and rare gemstones in the world.
Ruby (July)
Ruby is a variety of corundum that forms in metamorphic rocks. It is found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Afghanistan. The red color of ruby is due to the presence of chromium or vanadium. Ruby is one of the most valuable gemstones and is often referred to as the "king of gemstones."
Peridot (August)
Peridot is a variety of olivine that forms in igneous rocks. It is found in the United States, China, and Egypt. The green color of peridot is due to the presence of iron. Peridot is relatively abundant and is often used in affordable jewelry.
Sapphire (September)
Sapphire is a variety of corundum that forms in metamorphic rocks. It is found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Australia. The blue color of sapphire is due to the presence of iron and titanium. Sapphire is one of the most valuable gemstones and is highly sought after in the jewelry industry.
Tourmaline (October)
Tourmaline is a group of complex borosilicate minerals that form in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is found in Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Tourmaline can come in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, and black. Pink tourmaline is a popular birthstone for October.
Topaz (November)
Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in granitic pegmatites. It is found in Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. The yellow color of topaz is due to the presence of chromium or vanadium. Topaz is relatively abundant and is often used in both jewelry and decorative objects.
Tanzanite (December)
Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite that forms in metamorphic rocks. It is found exclusively in Tanzania, which is why it is named after the country. The blue color of tanzanite is due to the presence of vanadium. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, first discovered in the 1960s.
Gemological Properties
Each gemstone listed in the birthstone by month chart has unique gemological properties that make it suitable for use in jewelry and other applications. These properties include hardness, refractive index, color, and clarity.
Hardness and Durability
The hardness of a gemstone is measured on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). The hardness of a gemstone affects its durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions.
- Garnet: Garnet has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, some varieties of garnet are softer and more prone to damage.
- Amethyst: Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear.
- Aquamarine: Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the harder gemstones.
- Diamond: Diamond has a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest natural gemstone. It is extremely durable and resistant to scratches.
- Emerald: Emerald has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. Despite its relative hardness, emerald is fragile due to its inclusions, which can make it prone to chipping.
- Alexandrite: Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it very durable. However, it is also fragile due to its inclusions.
- Ruby: Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones. It is also very durable.
- Peridot: Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches.
- Sapphire: Sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones. It is also very durable.
- Tourmaline: Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable.
- Topaz: Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it very durable. However, it has a cleavage, which means it can be fractured if hit in the right direction.
- Tanzanite: Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches.
Refractive Index and Luster
The refractive index of a gemstone is a measure of how light is bent as it passes through the stone. The refractive index affects the brilliance and sparkle of a gemstone.
- Garnet: Garnet has a refractive index of 1.72 to 1.88, depending on the variety. It has a vitreous luster.
- Amethyst: Amethyst has a refractive index of 1.54 to 1.55 and has a vitreous luster.
- Aquamarine: Aquamarine has a refractive index of 1.57 to 1.58 and has a vitreous luster.
- Diamond: Diamond has a refractive index of 2.417 and has a brilliant luster. It is known for its fire and sparkle.
- Emerald: Emerald has a refractive index of 1.57 to 1.58 and has a vitreous luster.
- Alexandrite: Alexandrite has a refractive index of 1.74 to 1.76 and has a vitreous luster. It is known for its color change and brilliance.
- Ruby: Ruby has a refractive index of 1.76 to 1.78 and has a vitreous luster. It is known for its fire and brilliance.
- Peridot: Peridot has a refractive index of 1.65 to 1.69 and has a vitreous luster.
- Sapphire: Sapphire has a refractive index of 1.76 to 1.78 and has a vitreous luster. It is known for its fire and brilliance.
- Tourmaline: Tourmaline has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and has a vitreous luster.
- Topaz: Topaz has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and has a vitreous luster.
- Tanzanite: Tanzanite has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.70 and has a vitreous luster. It is known for its blue color and brilliance.
Color and Clarity
The color and clarity of a gemstone are important factors in its value and beauty. The color of a gemstone is determined by the presence of trace elements, while the clarity is determined by the presence of inclusions and other imperfections.
- Garnet: Garnet comes in a wide range of colors, including red, green, and blue. The red garnet is the most common, while the blue garnet is rare and valuable. Garnet is typically free of inclusions and has good clarity.
- Amethyst: Amethyst is typically a deep purple color. It can also come in lighter shades, such as lavender. Amethyst is often free of inclusions and has good clarity.
- Aquamarine: Aquamarine is typically a light blue color, although it can also be a darker blue. It is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Diamond: Diamond is typically colorless, although it can also come in a range of colors, including yellow, blue, and pink. Diamond is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Emerald: Emerald is typically a deep green color. It is known for its inclusions, which are often visible to the naked eye. These inclusions are referred to as "gardens" and are considered part of the gemstone's character.
- Alexandrite: Alexandrite is known for its color change, shifting from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. It is also known for its inclusions, which can affect its clarity.
- Ruby: Ruby is typically a deep red color. It is known for its inclusions, which are often visible to the naked eye. These inclusions are referred to as "silk" and are considered part of the gemstone's character.
- Peridot: Peridot is typically a yellow-green color. It is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Sapphire: Sapphire is typically a deep blue color, although it can also come in a range of colors, including pink, green, and yellow. It is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Tourmaline: Tourmaline comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, and black. It is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Topaz: Topaz is typically a yellow color, although it can also come in a range of colors, including blue, pink, and white. It is known for its clarity and is often free of inclusions.
- Tanzanite: Tanzanite is typically a deep blue color. It is known for its inclusions, which are often visible to the naked eye. These inclusions are considered part of the gemstone's character.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The gemstones listed in the birthstone by month chart have long been associated with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures and historical periods but often reflect the perceived virtues and powers of the stones.
Garnet (January)
Garnet is associated with constancy and loyalty. In ancient times, it was believed to protect travelers and provide them with safe passage. Garnet is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote love and emotional healing.
Amethyst (February)
Amethyst is associated with sincerity and sobriety. In ancient times, it was believed to prevent intoxication and promote clear thinking. Amethyst is also associated with the crown chakra and is believed to promote spiritual awareness and inner peace.
Aquamarine (March)
Aquamarine is associated with wisdom and courage. In ancient times, it was believed to protect sailors and provide them with safe passage. Aquamarine is also associated with the throat chakra and is believed to promote communication and self-expression.
Diamond (April)
Diamond is associated with innocence and purity. In ancient times, it was believed to symbolize eternal love and commitment. Diamond is also associated with the crown chakra and is believed to promote clarity and spiritual awareness.
Emerald (May)
Emerald is associated with happiness and fertility. In ancient times, it was believed to promote love and harmony. Emerald is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
Alexandrite (June)
Alexandrite is associated with wealth and good fortune. In ancient times, it was believed to bring prosperity and success. Alexandrite is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
Ruby (July)
Ruby is associated with freedom and vitality. In ancient times, it was believed to promote courage and strength. Ruby is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote love and emotional healing.
Peridot (August)
Peridot is associated with friendship and joy. In ancient times, it was believed to promote happiness and positivity. Peridot is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
Sapphire (September)
Sapphire is associated with truth and wisdom. In ancient times, it was believed to promote clarity and insight. Sapphire is also associated with the third eye chakra and is believed to promote spiritual awareness and intuition.
Tourmaline (October)
Tourmaline is associated with hope and creativity. In ancient times, it was believed to promote imagination and inspiration. Tourmaline is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
Topaz (November)
Topaz is associated with loyalty and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to promote strength and courage. Topaz is also associated with the solar plexus chakra and is believed to promote confidence and self-esteem.
Tanzanite (December)
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and intuition. In ancient times, it was believed to promote spiritual growth and awareness. Tanzanite is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and value of gemstones. The care instructions for each gemstone depend on its hardness, refractive index, and other properties.
Garnet
Garnet is relatively durable but can be scratched by harder materials. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing garnet to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Amethyst
Amethyst is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing amethyst to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as it can fade its color.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing aquamarine to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Diamond
Diamond is the hardest gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
Emerald
Emerald is fragile and can be damaged by heat and chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing emerald to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is fragile and can be damaged by heat and chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing alexandrite to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Ruby
Ruby is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
Peridot
Peridot is relatively soft and can be scratched by harder materials. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing peridot to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Sapphire
Sapphire is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing tourmaline to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Topaz
Topaz is durable but has a cleavage, which means it can be fractured if hit in the right direction. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing topaz to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively soft and can be scratched by harder materials. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing tanzanite to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
The birthstone by month chart is a fascinating blend of history, gemology, and symbolism. From the ancient associations of gemstones with zodiac signs to the modern standardization of the chart by the National Association of Jewelers, the tradition of linking gemstones to specific months has evolved over time. Each gemstone listed in the chart has unique geological properties, cultural significance, and metaphysical beliefs. Understanding these aspects provides a deeper appreciation of the beauty and value of these stones. Whether used in jewelry or as symbols of personal significance, birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.