The concept of birthstones—gemstones associated with the 12 months of the year—has captivated humans for centuries. These stones, often worn as jewelry or carried as talismans, are believed to bring protection, prosperity, and good fortune to those born in the corresponding month. The colors of these birthstones are not only visually striking but also rich in symbolism, cultural meaning, and scientific intrigue. From the fiery red of the January garnet to the tranquil blue of the March aquamarine, each birthstone color tells a story that intertwines history, geology, and human tradition.
This article delves into the 12 birthstone colors as defined by the provided sources, exploring their gemological properties, origins, and the meanings they have held across cultures and time. We will examine how these colors have shaped the identity of each month and why they remain relevant in both historical and contemporary contexts. By the end, you will have a deeper appreciation for the symbolic and scientific significance of each birthstone color.
History and Lore of Birthstones
The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest references comes from the breastplate of Aaron in the Book of Exodus, which lists 12 gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Though the identities of these stones are now lost, they inspired later traditions that linked gemstones to months of the year.
In medieval Europe, particularly during the 14th century, a more structured system emerged, often referred to as the "medieval birthstone calendar." This list, found in the writings of the German monk St. Hildegard of Bingen and others, associated specific stones with each month, believed to provide protection and health to those born under their influence. Over time, as gemstone trade expanded and new stones were discovered, the list evolved, incorporating more modern gemstones such as tanzanite and alexandrite.
By the 20th century, a more standardized list was adopted, particularly by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912 and later by the National Association of Jewelers of America (NAJA) in 1952. This version has largely remained the reference point for modern birthstone traditions. While some variations exist between regions and cultures—such as the inclusion of tanzanite as December’s birthstone in the United States but not in the United Kingdom—the overall idea of associating a month with a gemstone has endured.
The colors of these birthstones have often been the most visible and enduring aspect of their identity. Whether red, blue, green, or yellow, these hues not only reflect the aesthetic appeal of the stones but also carry symbolic meanings rooted in ancient beliefs and modern interpretations.
The 12 Birthstone Colors and Their Gemstones
January: Garnet – Deep Red
The January birthstone is the garnet, a gemstone that is most commonly associated with the color red. This rich, deep red hue has long been admired for its vibrant and warm appearance. Garnets are a group of silicate minerals that come in various colors, including red, orange, green, and even colorless. However, the red garnet—especially the pyrope variety—is the most well-known and widely used as a birthstone.
Garnet has a long and storied history. In ancient times, it was believed to bring protection and light during dark times. The word “garnet” is derived from the Latin granatum, meaning “pomegranate,” a fruit with deep red seeds that resembles the color of the gemstone. The red garnet was particularly revered in Egypt and India, where it was often used in jewelry and as a protective talisman.
From a gemological perspective, garnets are relatively durable, with a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for everyday wear. Their refractive index ranges from 1.71 to 2.00, which gives them a brilliant, glassy luster. Garnets are typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and are mined in countries such as India, Brazil, and the United States.
The red color of the January birthstone is deeply symbolic. In many cultures, red is associated with vitality, passion, and courage. Garnet is often linked to themes of friendship, loyalty, and the strengthening of relationships. It is also believed to promote physical health and emotional well-being.
February: Amethyst – Purple
February’s birthstone is the amethyst, a gemstone known for its striking purple color. Amethyst is a variety of quartz and is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Its color ranges from light lilac to deep purple and is caused by the presence of iron and irradiation within the crystal structure.
Amethyst has a long and storied history. In ancient Greece, it was believed that amethyst could prevent intoxication, hence the name derived from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.” It was often used in drinking vessels to prevent drunkenness. In medieval Europe, amethyst was associated with royalty and was considered a stone of nobility and spiritual clarity.
From a gemological standpoint, amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear. Its refractive index is approximately 1.54–1.55, and it has a trigonal crystal structure. Amethyst is typically found in geodes and is mined in various locations, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Russia.
The purple color of amethyst has long been associated with wisdom, serenity, and spiritual insight. In modern times, it is believed to promote calmness, emotional balance, and mental clarity. Amethyst is also associated with the crown chakra in spiritual traditions, symbolizing a connection to higher consciousness.
March: Aquamarine – Blue
March’s birthstone is the aquamarine, a gemstone known for its soothing blue color, which resembles the color of the ocean. Aquamarine is a variety of beryl and is prized for its clarity and vibrant color. Its name is derived from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “sea water.”
Aquamarine has a rich history and has been used in jewelry for centuries. In ancient Rome, it was believed that aquamarine was the treasure of mermaids and was used to calm the seas and protect sailors. In medieval Europe, it was considered a symbol of hope and protection, often given to travelers as a talisman.
Gemologically, aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.56–1.60. It is typically found in granite pegmatites and is mined in countries such as Brazil, Zambia, and Nigeria. The blue color is caused by the presence of iron in the crystal structure.
The blue color of aquamarine is associated with tranquility, peace, and calm. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional stability and mental clarity. It is also associated with the throat chakra in spiritual traditions, symbolizing communication and self-expression.
April: Diamond – Colorless
April’s birthstone is the diamond, a gemstone known for its brilliance and colorless appearance. Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. Its refractive index is 2.42, which gives it a high degree of brilliance and sparkle.
Diamond has a long and storied history. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, with the first known diamond jewelry dating back to ancient India. Diamonds were traditionally believed to bring strength, clarity, and protection to their wearers. In modern times, diamonds are often associated with love, commitment, and eternal bonds, especially in the form of engagement rings.
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions and are mined in countries such as South Africa, Russia, and Canada.
The colorless nature of the April birthstone symbolizes purity, clarity, and strength. In many cultures, it is also associated with the heart chakra, representing love, compassion, and emotional balance.
May: Emerald – Green
May’s birthstone is the emerald, a gemstone known for its rich green color. Emerald is a variety of beryl and is one of the four precious gemstones, along with diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Its green color is caused by the presence of chromium or vanadium in the crystal structure.
Emerald has a long and storied history. It was highly prized in ancient Egypt, where it was used in jewelry and as a symbol of fertility and rebirth. In medieval Europe, it was believed to promote health, love, and wisdom. In modern times, it is often associated with luxury, elegance, and sophistication.
Gemologically, emerald has a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.56–1.60. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.
The green color of emerald is associated with growth, renewal, and vitality. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. It is also associated with the heart chakra in spiritual traditions, representing love, compassion, and emotional healing.
June: Pearl – White
June has three birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. The pearl is known for its white or cream color and is the only organic gemstone. It is formed within the soft tissue of living shelled mollusks and is composed of calcium carbonate.
Pearls have been used in jewelry for thousands of years and have been highly valued in many cultures. In ancient China, pearls were believed to bring wisdom and long life. In medieval Europe, they were associated with purity and innocence.
From a gemological perspective, pearls are relatively soft, with a hardness ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. They require special care and are often worn for special occasions rather than everyday use. Pearls are found in both saltwater and freshwater environments and are cultivated in countries such as Japan, China, and the United States.
The white color of the June birthstone is associated with purity, innocence, and wisdom. In many cultures, pearls are believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. They are also associated with the crown chakra in spiritual traditions, representing a connection to higher consciousness.
July: Ruby – Red
July’s birthstone is the ruby, a gemstone known for its deep red color. Ruby is a variety of corundum and is one of the four precious gemstones. Its red color is caused by the presence of chromium in the crystal structure.
Ruby has a long and storied history. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years and has been highly prized in many cultures. In ancient India, it was believed to bring protection, health, and prosperity. In medieval Europe, it was considered a symbol of power and nobility.
Gemologically, ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.76–1.78. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, and India.
The red color of the July birthstone is associated with passion, courage, and vitality. In many cultures, it is believed to promote physical health and emotional strength. It is also associated with the heart chakra in spiritual traditions, representing love, compassion, and emotional healing.
August: Peridot – Green
August’s birthstone is the peridot, a gemstone known for its vibrant green color. Peridot is a silicate mineral and is one of the few gemstones that only occurs in a single color—green. Its color is caused by the presence of iron in the crystal structure.
Peridot has a long and storied history. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to bring protection and good fortune. It was often used in jewelry and as a protective talisman. In medieval Europe, it was believed to promote health and vitality.
Gemologically, peridot has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.65–1.69. It is typically found in volcanic rocks and is mined in countries such as the United States, Egypt, and Pakistan.
The green color of the August birthstone is associated with renewal, growth, and vitality. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. It is also associated with the heart chakra in spiritual traditions, representing love, compassion, and emotional healing.
September: Sapphire – Blue
September’s birthstone is the sapphire, a gemstone known for its rich blue color. Sapphire is a variety of corundum and is one of the four precious gemstones. Its blue color is caused by the presence of iron and titanium in the crystal structure.
Sapphire has a long and storied history. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years and has been highly prized in many cultures. In ancient Rome, it was believed to bring wisdom and protection. In medieval Europe, it was considered a symbol of truth and faith.
Gemologically, sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.76–1.78. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined in countries such as Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Australia.
The blue color of the September birthstone is associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. It is also associated with the throat chakra in spiritual traditions, representing communication and self-expression.
October: Opal – Multicolored
October’s birthstone is the opal, a gemstone known for its unique play of colors. Opal is a hydrated amorphous silica and is one of the few gemstones that exhibit a play of colors—known as opalescence. Its colors are caused by the diffraction of light through microscopic silica spheres within the stone.
Opal has a long and storied history. In ancient Rome, it was believed to bring good fortune and protection. In medieval Europe, it was considered a symbol of hope and innocence. In modern times, it is often associated with creativity and inspiration.
Gemologically, opal has a hardness ranging from 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and requires special care due to its water content. It is typically found in sedimentary rocks and is mined in countries such as Australia, Mexico, and Ethiopia.
The multicolored nature of the October birthstone is associated with creativity, inspiration, and emotional balance. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional healing and mental clarity. It is also associated with the crown chakra in spiritual traditions, representing a connection to higher consciousness.
November: Topaz – Yellow
November’s birthstone is the topaz, a gemstone known for its yellow color. Topaz is a silicate mineral and is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. Its yellow color is caused by the presence of iron and other trace elements in the crystal structure.
Topaz has a long and storied history. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to bring protection and strength. In medieval Europe, it was considered a symbol of love and affection. In modern times, it is often associated with warmth, joy, and prosperity.
Gemologically, topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.62–1.68. It is typically found in igneous rocks and is mined in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and the United States.
The yellow color of the November birthstone is associated with warmth, joy, and optimism. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. It is also associated with the solar plexus chakra in spiritual traditions, representing personal power and self-confidence.
December: Tanzanite – Blue-Purple
December’s birthstone is the tanzanite, a gemstone known for its deep blue and purple color. Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite and is one of the few gemstones that only occurs in a single location—Tanzania. Its color is caused by the presence of vanadium in the crystal structure.
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, having been first identified in the 1960s. It has quickly become a popular gemstone due to its vibrant color and affordability. In modern times, it is often associated with transformation, healing, and spiritual growth.
Gemologically, tanzanite has a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.69–1.70. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is mined exclusively in Tanzania.
The blue-purple color of the December birthstone is associated with transformation, healing, and spiritual insight. In many cultures, it is believed to promote emotional balance and mental clarity. It is also associated with the heart and crown chakras in spiritual traditions, representing love, compassion, and a connection to higher consciousness.
Care and Maintenance of Birthstone Jewelry
Due to their varying hardness and chemical properties, birthstone jewelry requires different levels of care. Softer stones such as peridot and tanzanite should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, while harder stones such as ruby and sapphire can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm water.
It is important to avoid exposing birthstones to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or abrasive materials. Some stones, such as pearls and opals, are sensitive to moisture and should be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Proper care and maintenance will help preserve the beauty and value of birthstone jewelry for generations to come.
Conclusion
The 12 birthstone colors represent a rich tapestry of history, culture, and science. From the deep red of the January garnet to the vibrant blue of the December tanzanite, each color carries its own unique symbolism and significance. These stones have been treasured for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for their perceived powers of protection, healing, and spiritual insight.
Whether worn as a personal talisman or a beautiful piece of jewelry, birthstones continue to captivate and inspire. As we have seen, their colors are not just aesthetic choices but also reflections of deep cultural and historical traditions. Understanding these colors and their meanings adds a new dimension to the appreciation of gemstones and their enduring legacy.