Birthstones play a sentimental part for those who love jewelry, but what exactly are the birthstones for each month? In this article, you’ll see that it is a lot more complex than you initially imagined.
- List of Birthstone Gems of the Month
- Take the Birthstone Style Quiz (New Feature)
- Birthstone Chart by Month
Birthstone Gems of the Month Chart
The birthstone for each month is a matter of contention. Not everyone agrees with each other regarding which birthstone represents which month. We have followed the most traditional opinions. In situations where there are a few stones, we’ve only added the most popular stones.
| Gemstones | Colors | |
| January | Garnet | Orangish Red |
| February | Amethyst | Purple |
| March | Aquamarine | Greenish-Blue |
| April | Diamond | White |
| May | Emerald | Dark Green |
| June | Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite | White and Blue |
| July | Ruby | Dark Red |
| August | Peridot | Green |
| September | Sapphire | Dark Blue |
| October | Opal and Tourmaline | Multicolored |
| November | Citrine and Topaz | Light Blue and Orange |
| December | Zircon, Tanzanite, Turquoise and Topaz | Blue |
January Birthstone
Garnet is the special birthstone for January, and it’s a gemstone that comes in different colors. It’s most famous for its deep red-orangish shades. The word “garnet” comes from the Latin word “granatum,” which means “pomegranate.” That’s because garnet looks a bit like the bright red seeds you find inside a pomegranate fruit. People have liked garnet for a very long time, and in many stories, it’s connected to things like life, being fertile, and starting fresh.
But what’s even more exciting is that garnet is used in jewelry. You’ve probably seen rings, necklaces, and earrings with beautiful red stones – those could be garnets! People believe that wearing garnet jewelry can give you strength, protect you, and bring good vibes. So, if you were born in January, garnet is your special gem, and it’s a fantastic way to celebrate your birthday in the winter!
Learn about January Birthstone
February Birthstone
February’s birthstone, amethyst, is a purple gemstone that has a long history and some cool legends around it. The word “amethyst” actually comes from a Greek word that means “not drunk.” Ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethyst jewelry or drinking from amethyst cups would prevent them from getting too drunk. So, it was like a natural party stone! But beyond its party reputation, amethyst is also said to bring calmness and balance, which can be super helpful in our busy lives.
When you look at amethyst, you’ll see different shades of purple, from light lavender to deep violet. It’s often used in all sorts of jewelry, like necklaces, earrings, and rings. So, if you’re a February baby, you have this beautiful gem as your birthstone. It’s not just a pretty rock; it’s a piece of history and a symbol of calm and good vibes. Plus, it looks great in jewelry, so you can wear your birthstone proudly!
Learn About February Birthstone | View Amethyst Rings
March Birthstone
March’s birthstone, aquamarine, is like a piece of the ocean that you can wear as jewelry! This gem is known for its stunning blue-green color, which can remind you of the clear waters of a tropical beach. The name “aquamarine” actually comes from two Latin words: “aqua” means water, and “marina” means sea. So, it’s literally the “sea water” gem! People have been fascinated by aquamarine for ages, believing it brings courage, tranquility, and even protects sailors from the dangers of the sea.
You can find aquamarine in all sorts of jewelry, like necklaces, earrings, and rings. It’s a popular choice because its soft blue-green shade goes great with many outfits. Besides its beauty, wearing aquamarine can make you feel calm and confident. So, if you were born in March, you’re lucky to have aquamarine as your birthstone, a little piece of the ocean to carry with you wherever you go!
Learn about the March Birthstone | View Aquamarine Rings
April Birthstone
April’s birthstone is the dazzling diamond, and it’s one of the most famous and precious gems in the world! You’ve probably heard the saying, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” and that’s because diamonds are known for their incredible sparkle and beauty. They come in various colors, but the most common ones are clear or white, and they can be found in all sorts of jewelry, like rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Diamonds are super strong too, which makes them perfect for engagement rings that symbolize lasting love and commitment.
What makes diamonds even more exciting is their history. They’re formed deep within the Earth under high pressure and heat, and it takes tons of years for them to come to the surface. People have treasured diamonds for centuries, believing they bring strength, clarity, and protection. So, if you’re born in April, you have the stunning diamond as your birthstone, representing not only beauty but also resilience and everlasting love. It’s like wearing a piece of history and glamour!
Learn about April Birthstone | View Diamond Rings
May Birthstone
May’s birthstone is the captivating emerald, a gem that’s known for its stunning green color. Imagine the rich green hues of a lush forest or a vibrant meadow, and that’s what emeralds look like. The name “emerald” comes from the Greek word “smaragdos,” which means green gem. People have been fascinated by emeralds for thousands of years, and they have been worn by royalty and celebrities, making them a symbol of luxury and elegance.
Emeralds are often used in all sorts of jewelry, from necklaces and earrings to rings. Besides their beauty, emeralds are believed to have special qualities like promoting wisdom, growth, and even healing. So, if you’re a May baby, you’re lucky to have the enchanting emerald as your birthstone. It’s not just a pretty gem; it’s a piece of nature’s beauty and a symbol of positive qualities that you can carry with you!
Learn about May Birthstone | View Emerald Rings
June Birthstone
June is a special month because it has not just one, but three birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Let’s dive into each of these unique gems!
Pearls are known for their timeless beauty and elegance. Unlike other gemstones, pearls are created by living creatures – oysters and mussels. They come in various colors, with white and cream being the most common. Pearls have been cherished for centuries and are often associated with purity and wisdom. They’re used to create all sorts of jewelry, like necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, and they add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Moonstones are another fascinating June birthstone. These gems have a magical, almost otherworldly quality because they display a shimmering play of light across their surface, resembling the glow of the moon. Moonstones come in various colors, including blue, gray, and rainbow-like hues. Wearing moonstone jewelry can make you feel connected to the mystical allure of the moon and its serene beauty.
Alexandrite, the third June birthstone, is truly unique because it changes color depending on the lighting. It can appear green in daylight and red under incandescent light, giving it a chameleon-like quality. This gem is often associated with creativity and imagination. It’s a rare and precious stone, making it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Learn about June Birthstones | View Pearl Rings
July Birthstone
July’s birthstone is the fiery and vibrant ruby! Rubies are known for their deep red color, which is often associated with love and passion. These gemstones have a long history of being prized and revered by various cultures throughout time. In fact, rubies are considered one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires.
Wearing a ruby can make you feel bold and confident. They are often used in all kinds of jewelry, from rings and necklaces to earrings. So, if your birthday falls in July, you have the magnificent ruby as your birthstone, a symbol of love and strength. It’s like wearing a piece of passion and courage that shines bright!
Learn about July Birthstone | View Ruby Rings
August Birthstone
August’s birthstone is the beautiful peridot, and it’s a gemstone that captures the essence of summer. Peridot is known for its stunning green color, which can range from bright lime green to a deeper olive shade. This gem is often associated with nature and the lush greenery of summertime.
Peridot is often used in jewelry like rings, earrings, and necklaces, adding a pop of fresh green to any outfit. What makes peridot even more fascinating is that it’s one of the few gemstones that can only be found in one color – green. So, if your birthday is in August, you have the vibrant peridot as your birthstone, a symbol of vitality and the natural world. It’s like carrying a piece of summer with you wherever you go!
Learn about August Birthstone | View Peridot Jewelry
September Birthstone
September’s birthstone is the magnificent sapphire, and it’s a gem that shines as brilliantly as a clear blue sky. Sapphires are famous for their deep blue color, although they can also come in other shades like pink, yellow, or even white. However, it’s the classic blue sapphire that’s most loved and cherished. Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with wisdom, nobility, and royalty. They have adorned the crowns and jewelry of kings and queens, symbolizing power and protection.
Sapphires are often used in all kinds of jewelry, from engagement rings to necklaces and earrings. Beyond their beauty, they are believed to bring inner peace and mental clarity. If you were born in September, you have the stunning sapphire as your birthstone, representing not only beauty but also wisdom and calmness. It’s like wearing a piece of the sky on your finger or around your neck, a reminder of the limitless possibilities ahead.
Learn about September Birthstone | View Sapphire Rings
October Birthstone
October is a unique month because it has not just one but two beautiful birthstones: opal and tourmaline!
Opal is like a magical gem straight out of a fairy tale. It’s known for its play of colors, which can shimmer and change when it catches the light. Opals come in various shades, including white, black, and fiery red. They are often used in jewelry, like rings and earrings, to add a touch of enchantment and mystery to your style.
Tourmaline, on the other hand, is like a rainbow in a gemstone. It comes in a dazzling array of colors, from pink and green to blue and even watermelon-like hues with a mix of red and green. Tourmalines are often associated with positive energy and healing properties, and they are believed to inspire creativity and calmness. These gems are also used in various types of jewelry, adding a burst of color and positivity to your look.
Learn about October Birthstone | View Opal Jewelry
November Birthstone
November is a special month because it has two dazzling birthstones: citrine and topaz!
Citrine is like a burst of sunshine in gem form. It’s known for its warm, golden-yellow color, which can remind you of the autumn leaves. Citrine is often associated with positive energy and happiness, making it a gem that brings brightness to your life. It’s used in various types of jewelry, like necklaces and earrings, to add a touch of warmth and cheerfulness to your style.
Topaz, on the other hand, is like a piece of the sky. While it can come in different colors, the most popular one is a beautiful sky-blue shade. Topaz is believed to bring clarity and strength to its wearer, making it a symbol of wisdom and courage. Like citrine, topaz is also used in jewelry, and it can be found in rings, bracelets, and more.
Learn about November Birthstones | View Citrine Jewelry
December Birthstones
December is a lucky month because it has not one but three (or four) beautiful birthstones: zircon, tanzanite, turquoise, and possibly blue topaz!
Zircon is like a shimmering gem that comes in various colors, but it’s often recognized for its bright blue shade. It’s believed to bring peace and prosperity to those who wear it. Zircon can be found in different pieces of jewelry, like rings and necklaces, adding a touch of sparkle to your style.
Tanzanite is a unique birthstone that’s known for its striking blue-violet color. It’s found in only one place on Earth – Tanzania, which makes it incredibly rare and special. Tanzanite is thought to represent transformation and spirituality, and it’s often used in elegant jewelry pieces to enhance your look with its vibrant color.
Turquoise, on the other hand, is like a piece of the sky or the sea. It’s a beautiful blue-green gemstone that’s often associated with protection and good fortune. Turquoise has been used in jewelry for centuries and can be seen in rings, bracelets, and more.
Some people also consider blue topaz as a December birthstone. Blue topaz shares a similar dazzling blue hue with tanzanite and turquoise, making it a lovely addition to the December birthstone lineup. It’s believed to symbolize calmness, communication, and wisdom. Just like the other December birthstones, blue topaz can be used to create beautiful jewelry pieces, such as rings, earrings, and pendants.
Learn about December Birthstones | View December Birthstone Jewelry
Birthstone Information
Birthstones have long been believed to bring a combination of good luck, good health, prosperity, love, and many more benefits to the wearer. Each stone is associated with a particular month, a tradition going back to the 15th century. Some changes have occurred in the list over the years, with several months now having more than one birthstone. The latest “official” list was given by the American Gem Trade Association and finalized in 2016. This update added alexandrite as a June birthstone and tanzanite for December.
Of course, there’s no real evidence to suggest that any of the birthstones bring the wearer good health or fortune. This lack of data hasn’t stopped the purchase of birthstones. Birthstones are growing more popular each year.
One advantageous effect of a birthstone is its direct connection with a birthday gift. It affords gift-givers the ease of knowing what to buy. Magical powers or not, it’s a fantastic system. Most birthstones are readily available, and the purchased stone doesn’t need to be of the highest quality to still carry the love and thought that went into choosing it.
Recipients of birthstone gifts are often unaware of the significance but start to learn more about their own stones. Some go on to become collectors and enjoy their birthstones enormously.
History Of The Birthstone
Each precious or semi-precious stone associated with a particular birth month has its origins in ancient history. There are those who believe that gemstones offer luck, good health, and protection. The variables of the myths range from stone to stone.
The birthstone list, as we know it today, isn’t always representative of what was used in ancient times. Often, red stones were all grouped together according to color rather than by mineral content. The tradition of a single stone for a single month is actually only a few hundred years old. Over the centuries, some stones have actually moved around between the months. The lack of any kind of “official” list means that the US one is different from the UK, for example. Furthermore, some months have more than one associated birthstone. The reasons behind these multi-stone months are unclear.
It may be an attempt to add affordable gemstones to the birthstone list…
Take the Birthstone Style Quiz
Birthstone Chart by Month
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