The concept of assigning gemstones to specific months of the year has been a tradition that spans centuries, intertwining cultural heritage, historical significance, and gemological science. The birthstones chart by month is not merely a list of gemstones; it is a tapestry of history, symbolism, and natural beauty that reflects the evolution of jewelry traditions and gemology. This article explores the modern and traditional birthstone charts, the significance of each gemstone, and the historical context behind their selection.
Introduction
The birthstones chart is a widely recognized reference that links gemstones to each month of the year. These gemstones are believed to carry unique properties and symbolic meanings, often associated with the traits of those born in those months. While the modern birthstone chart was officially established in the United States in 1912 and has since been updated, traditional and ancient charts also exist, each offering a unique perspective on the cultural and historical evolution of birthstones.
The sources consulted provide insights into the modern, traditional, and ancient birthstone lists, offering a comprehensive understanding of the gemstones associated with each month. These include details on gemological properties, symbolic meanings, and the historical context behind their selection. This article will explore the history of the birthstones chart, the gemstones associated with each month, and their significance from both cultural and scientific perspectives.
History and Evolution of the Birthstones Chart
The Origins of Birthstone Traditions
The practice of associating gemstones with specific months or zodiac signs can be traced back to ancient times. One of the earliest known references comes from the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the biblical book of Exodus (19th chapter), where twelve gemstones were said to be embedded in a high priest’s garment, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While the exact identities of the stones remain uncertain, this tradition laid the foundation for later associations between gemstones and months or zodiac signs.
In medieval Europe, gemstones were believed to have protective and healing properties, often tied to astrological beliefs. The 14th-century “Table of the Twelve Stones” in the Hebrew Book of Revelation and the 16th-century work of the German physician and alchemist Paracelsus both contributed to the development of birthstone lore. These early traditions evolved into the modern birthstone charts we recognize today.
The Creation of the Modern Birthstone Chart
The modern birthstone chart in the United States was officially defined by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912. This standardization aimed to create a uniform reference for jewelers and consumers. The list has undergone several revisions since then, with notable updates in 1952, 2002, and 2016. These changes reflect the discovery of new gemstones, the growing appreciation for alternative stones, and the influence of market trends.
In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added alexandrite for June and pink tourmaline for October. In 2002, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) introduced tanzanite for December, while in 2016, spinel was added for August. These updates highlight the dynamic nature of birthstone traditions, which continue to evolve alongside gemological discoveries and consumer preferences.
The modern chart is widely recognized as the most popular version, with one gemstone designated for each month. However, it is important to note that traditional and ancient charts also exist, offering alternative selections based on historical and cultural practices.
The Birthstones by Month: A Detailed Overview
Each month is associated with one or more gemstones, each with its own set of gemological properties, symbolic meanings, and historical significance. The following sections provide an in-depth look at the modern and traditional birthstones for each month.
January: Garnet
Modern Birthstone: Garnet
Traditional Birthstone: Garnet
Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that includes several species, each with its own color and properties. The most common color is red, but garnets can also be found in shades of green, yellow, orange, and even blue. Garnet has a hardness of around 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Garnet is associated with constancy and sincerity, and is believed to promote emotional stability and protection. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years and was particularly popular in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The gemstone's deep red color was often linked to blood and vitality, and it was used in protective amulets and talismans.
February: Amethyst
Modern Birthstone: Amethyst
Traditional Birthstone: Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz known for its striking purple color, which ranges from light lavender to deep violet. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in rings, pendants, and other jewelry.
Amethyst is associated with sincerity and sobriety, and was historically believed to protect against drunkenness—hence its name, derived from the Greek word for "not drunk." In ancient times, it was used in wine goblets and amulets to promote clarity and calmness. Amethyst is also linked to spiritual growth and is often used in meditation practices.
March: Aquamarine
Modern Birthstone: Aquamarine
Traditional Birthstone: Bloodstone
Aquamarine is a beryl mineral known for its pale blue to greenish-blue color, reminiscent of the sea. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for jewelry. Aquamarine is often found in Brazil, Colombia, and Madagascar.
Aquamarine is associated with wisdom and truth, and is believed to promote courage and clarity of thought. It was once thought to protect sailors from drowning and was worn as a talisman during sea voyages. In modern times, it remains a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Bloodstone, the traditional alternative for March, is a form of jasper with red inclusions that resemble drops of blood. It is associated with strength and vitality, and was historically used in amulets for protection and healing.
April: Diamond
Modern Birthstone: Diamond
Traditional Birthstone: Diamond
Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystalline structure, and its brilliance and fire make it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
Diamond is associated with innocence and purity, and has long been used in engagement rings and other symbols of love and commitment. It is also believed to promote strength and resilience. The diamond's popularity has led to a wide range of treatments and synthetic options, but its status as the April birthstone remains unchanged.
May: Emerald
Modern Birthstone: Emerald
Traditional Birthstone: Emerald
Emerald is a variety of beryl known for its rich green color, caused by trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, and is typically found in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.
Emerald is associated with happiness and renewal, and is believed to promote love and fertility. It was highly prized by ancient civilizations, including the Incas and Egyptians, who used it in royal jewelry and religious artifacts. Emerald is also associated with wisdom and is often used in meditation and spiritual practices.
June: Alexandrite and Pearl
Modern Birthstones: Alexandrite and Pearl
Traditional Birthstone: Pearl
Alexandrite is a rare variety of chrysoberyl known for its color-changing properties. It appears green in daylight and red under incandescent light, a phenomenon known as the "alexandrite effect." It has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale and is typically found in Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka.
Alexandrite is associated with prosperity and transformation, and is believed to enhance adaptability and intuition. It was discovered in the 19th century and was named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia, who was born on the day it was discovered.
Pearl is an organic gemstone formed within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk. It has a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale and is often found in freshwater and saltwater environments. Pearls are associated with wealth and purity, and were historically worn by royalty and nobility as symbols of status and elegance.
July: Ruby
Modern Birthstone: Ruby
Traditional Birthstone: Ruby
Ruby is a variety of corundum known for its deep red color, caused by trace amounts of chromium. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones. Ruby is typically found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
Ruby is associated with passion and vitality, and is believed to promote courage and protection. It has been highly valued for centuries and was often used in royal jewelry and religious artifacts. Ruby is also associated with love and is a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
August: Peridot and Spinel
Modern Birthstones: Peridot and Spinel
Traditional Birthstone: Sardonyx
Peridot is a silicate mineral known for its vibrant green to yellow-green color. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is often found in volcanic rocks and meteorites. Peridot is associated with friendship and prosperity, and is believed to promote positivity and healing.
Spinel, a recently added modern birthstone for August, is a gemstone that closely resembles ruby and sapphire. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and is available in a wide range of colors, including red, blue, and pink. Spinel is associated with love and emotional balance, and is known for its brilliance and affordability.
Sardonyx, the traditional alternative for August, is a form of chalcedony with bands of red and white. It is associated with courage and protection, and was historically used in amulets and seals.
September: Sapphire
Modern Birthstone: Sapphire
Traditional Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of corundum known for its deep blue color, although it can also be found in other colors such as pink, yellow, and green. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and is one of the most durable gemstones. Sapphire is typically found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Australia.
Sapphire is associated with truth and wisdom, and is believed to promote loyalty and integrity. It has been used in royal jewelry for centuries and is often associated with nobility and power. Sapphire is also a popular choice for engagement rings, especially in its blue form.
October: Tourmaline and Opal
Modern Birthstones: Tourmaline and Opal
Traditional Birthstone: Opal
Tourmaline is a group of complex borosilicate minerals that can occur in a wide range of colors, including black, pink, green, and multicolored. It has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and is known for its piezoelectric properties. Tourmaline is associated with hope and vitality, and is believed to promote emotional balance and protection.
Opal, the traditional alternative for October, is a hydrated amorphous form of silica that displays a play of color known as opalescence. It has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and is typically found in Australia. Opal is associated with hope and inspiration, and was historically believed to bring good fortune and creativity.
November: Topaz and Citrine
Modern Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
Traditional Birthstone: Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral known for its clarity and brilliance. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and is available in a range of colors, including yellow, blue, and pink. Topaz is associated with loyalty and friendship, and is believed to promote clarity and protection.
Citrine, a recently added modern birthstone for November, is a yellow to orange variety of quartz. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale and is known for its warm, radiant color. Citrine is associated with optimism and abundance, and is believed to promote energy and motivation.
December: Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz
Modern Birthstones: Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz
Traditional Birthstone: Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli
Tanzanite is a rare variety of zoisite known for its intense blue to violet color. It has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is found only in Tanzania. Tanzanite is associated with transformation and intuition, and is believed to promote emotional healing and spiritual growth.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz are also modern birthstones for December. Blue Zircon is a zircon mineral that has been heat-treated to enhance its color, while Blue Topaz is a quartz mineral that has been irradiated or heat-treated to produce a blue hue. Both are associated with clarity and protection, and are known for their affordability and brilliance.
Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli are traditional birthstones for December. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate mineral known for its blue to green color, while Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. Both are associated with wisdom and protection, and have been used in jewelry and amulets for centuries.
Gemological Properties and Care
Each gemstone on the birthstones chart has unique gemological properties that affect its durability, color, and value. Understanding these properties is essential for proper care and maintenance.
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Composition | Color | Care Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garnet | 6.5 to 7.5 | Silicate minerals | Red, green, yellow, blue | Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme heat |
| Amethyst | 7 | Quartz | Purple | Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight |
| Aquamarine | 7.5 to 8 | Beryl | Blue to green | Avoid ultrasonic cleaners |
| Diamond | 10 | Carbon | Colorless to yellow, brown, blue, green | Avoid abrasives and extreme heat |
| Emerald | 7.5 to 8 | Beryl | Green | Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and heat |
| Alexandrite | 8.5 | Chrysoberyl | Green (daylight) to red (incandescent) | Avoid harsh chemicals and heat |
| Pearl | 2.5 to 4.5 | Calcium carbonate | White, pink, black | Avoid chemicals and abrasives |
| Ruby | 9 | Corundum | Red | Avoid abrasives and heat |
| Peridot | 6.5 to 7 | Silicate minerals | Green | Avoid harsh chemicals |
| Spinel | 8 | Oxide minerals | Red, blue, pink | Avoid abrasives and heat |
| Sapphire | 9 | Corundum | Blue, pink, yellow | Avoid abrasives and heat |
| Tourmaline | 7 to 7.5 | Borosilicate minerals | Multicolored | Avoid ultrasonic cleaners |
| Opal | 5.5 to 6.5 | Hydrated silica | Multicolored | Avoid dry environments and chemicals |
| Topaz | 8 | Silicate minerals | Yellow, blue, pink | Avoid abrasives and heat |
| Citrine | 7 | Quartz | Yellow, orange | Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight |
| Tanzanite | 6 to 7 | Zoisite | Blue to violet | Avoid heat and chemicals |
| Blue Zircon | 6 to 7.5 | Zircon | Blue | Avoid heat and chemicals |
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Quartz | Blue | Avoid abrasives and heat |
| Turquoise | 5 to 6 | Phosphate minerals | Blue to green | Avoid chemicals and dry environments |
| Lapis Lazuli | 5 to 6 | Metamorphic rock | Blue with gold flecks | Avoid chemicals and abrasives |
Proper care of gemstones involves avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and abrasive materials. Most gemstones can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water, while others may require specialized cleaning methods. For example, pearls should never be soaked in water, and opals should be kept in a humid environment to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
The birthstones chart by month is more than just a list of gemstones; it is a reflection of history, culture, and gemology. From the ancient traditions of the Breastplate of Aaron to the modern standardizations of the 20th century, the evolution of birthstone charts highlights the enduring fascination with gemstones and their symbolic meanings.
Each gemstone on the chart carries its own set of properties, colors, and associations, making them unique and valuable. Whether you choose a modern, traditional, or ancient birthstone, you are connecting with a rich tradition that spans centuries and continents. The chart serves as both a practical guide for jewelry selection and a source of personal and cultural meaning.
As gemology continues to evolve, so too will the birthstone chart, incorporating new discoveries and reflecting changing tastes. However, the core elements—beauty, symbolism, and history—will remain constant, ensuring that birthstones continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come.