Birthstones by Month: Birthstones have fascinated cultures for centuries. Each month of the year is represented by a unique gemstone that is thought to symbolize traits, offer protection, and mark milestones.
Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift, exploring your gem’s history, or seeking a personalized piece of jewelry, understanding birthstones by month is the perfect way to start. Below, you’ll find a complete guide to each month’s birthstone, including their meaning, color, and links to more in-depth posts.
Table of Contents
- Birthstones by Month: January Birthstone – Garnet
- Birthstones by Month: February Birthstone – Amethyst
- Birthstones by Month: March Birthstone – Aquamarine
- Birthstones by Month: April Birthstone – Diamond
- Birthstones by Month: May Birthstone – Emerald
- Birthstones by Month: June Birthstone – Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
- Birthstones by Month: July Birthstone – Ruby
- Birthstones by Month: August Birthstone – Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel
- Birthstones by Month: September Birthstone – Sapphire
- Birthstones by Month: October Birthstone – Opal and Tourmaline
- Birthstones by Month: November Birthstone – Topaz and Citrine
- Birthstones by Month: December Birthstone – Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz
- Why Use a Birthstones by Month Guide?
- Traditional or Ancient Birthstone List
- Birthstone Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Birthstones by Month: January Birthstone – Garnet
Garnet is the fiery red January Birthstone known for its deep color and symbolism of strength and protection. It’s ideal for anyone born in the heart of winter.
Birthstones by Month: February Birthstone – Amethyst
The February Birthstone, Amethyst, is a striking purple gem associated with peace, clarity, and spiritual balance. Its calming tones make it a timeless favorite.
Birthstones by Month: March Birthstone – Aquamarine
Aquamarine, the March Birthstone, reflects the soothing hues of the sea. This gemstone symbolizes serenity, youth, and a connection to water.
Birthstones by Month: April Birthstone – Diamond
The April Birthstone is none other than the dazzling Diamond. Representing eternal love and strength, this gem is treasured for its brilliance and durability.
Birthstones by Month: May Birthstone – Emerald
Emerald, the vibrant green May Birthstone, has been cherished for centuries. It’s a symbol of rebirth, fertility, and eternal youth.
Birthstones by Month: June Birthstone – Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June has multiple birthstones: classic Pearls, color-changing Alexandrite, and dreamy Moonstone. Each June Birthstone offers a unique take on this summer month’s energy.
Birthstones by Month: July Birthstone – Ruby
The July Birthstone, Ruby, is known for its bold red color and deep symbolism of passion, protection, and prosperity. It’s one of the most coveted gemstones in history.
Birthstones by Month: August Birthstone – Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel
The August Birthstone options include bright green Peridot, layered Sardonyx, and vibrant Spinel. These gems reflect strength and warmth during the heart of summer.
Birthstones by Month: September Birthstone – Sapphire
Sapphire, the September Birthstone, is often seen in rich blue tones and represents wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It’s a timeless choice for jewelry and meaning.
Birthstones by Month: October Birthstone – Opal and Tourmaline
October Birthstones include the shimmering Opal and colorful Tourmaline. Both represent creativity and individuality, perfect for the changeable autumn season.
Birthstones by Month: November Birthstone – Topaz and Citrine
Topaz and Citrine are the warm-hued gems of November. November Birthstone stones symbolize joy, abundance, and energy—perfect for brightening the late fall season.
Birthstones by Month: December Birthstone – Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz
December is rich in blue birthstones. December Birthstones Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz all embody calm, hope, and good fortune, making them ideal for winter birthdays.
Why Use a Birthstones by Month Guide?
Understanding birthstones by month helps you:
- Choose meaningful gifts for birthdays and anniversaries
- Learn about gemstone symbolism and historical uses
- Pick jewelry that reflects your personality or heritage
- Explore different options for your month’s gem (especially for months with multiple birthstones)
Our guide makes it easy to find your month’s gem and explore more through dedicated blog posts.
Traditional or Ancient Birthstone List
Long before the modern birthstone chart was standardized, various cultures around the world assigned gemstones to each month based on spiritual, astrological, and historical beliefs. These traditional or ancient birthstones were often tied to biblical references, zodiac signs, and early religious or cultural customs. The list below reflects one such early tradition and includes gemstones that held symbolic meaning in antiquity, even if they differ from today’s recognized birthstones.
Some of these stones, such as Agate, Onyx, Bloodstone, and Carnelian, are no longer part of the official modern chart, but they were once highly valued for their supposed mystical and healing properties. This historical approach offers insight into how humans have long sought personal meaning and protection through gemstones.
Here is a comparison between this traditional list and the modern birthstones by month:
| Traditional Birthstone | Associated Month (Traditional) | Modern Birthstone Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Garnet | January | Garnet |
| Amethyst | February | Amethyst |
| Bloodstone | March | Aquamarine |
| Sapphire | April or September | Diamond (April), Sapphire (September) |
| Agate | May or June | Emerald (May), Pearl or Alexandrite (June) |
| Emerald | May | Emerald |
| Onyx | July or August | Ruby (July), Peridot (August) |
| Carnelian | July or August | Ruby (July), Peridot (August) |
| Peridot | August | Peridot |
| Beryl | October or November | Opal or Tourmaline (October), Topaz or Citrine (November) |
| Topaz | November | Topaz, Citrine |
| Ruby | July | Ruby |
Birthstone Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Are Birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones traditionally associated with each month of the year. They often hold symbolic meanings and are worn for personal or spiritual significance.
Do Some Months Have More Than One Birthstone?
Yes. Some months, like June, August, October, November, and December, have multiple recognized birthstones to offer variety and options in price, color, and style.
Is There a Difference Between Modern and Traditional Birthstones?
Yes. The modern list of birthstones, established by the Jewelers of America, differs slightly from older, traditional birthstone charts used in different cultures or eras.
Can I Wear a Birthstone That Isn’t From My Birth Month?
Absolutely. Many people choose to wear birthstones from other months for aesthetic reasons, or symbolic meaning.
Conclusion
This Birthstones by Month guide offers a gateway to exploring the fascinating world of gemstones. Whether you’re diving into the history of the Sapphire or admiring the brilliance of Diamond, there’s a unique story behind every monthly gem.