Birthstones by Month
Ancient wisdom. Modern meaning. Timeless beauty.
For centuries, gemstones have been cherished not only for their beauty but for the qualities they are believed to embody. Each month is linked to one or more birthstones—gems thought to reflect and enhance the traits of those born during that time. Whether worn for personal connection, cultural tradition, or pure elegance, birthstones continue to enchant across generations and cultures.
January
Garnet
Typically deep red but found in many colours, garnet symbolises love, friendship and protection. It is believed to inspire loyalty and safeguard the wearer on journeys.
February
Amethyst
This serene purple quartz is associated with peace, courage and inner stability. Ancient Greeks believed it could prevent intoxication and promote clarity of mind.
March
Aquamarine
A pale blue or sea-green beryl, aquamarine represents calmness, courage and clear communication. Sailors once carried it for safe passage across stormy waters.
April
Clear Quartz & Diamond
Both gems embody strength, purity and eternal unity. Diamond, the hardest natural substance, has long been a symbol of unbreakable love.
May
Emerald
Vivid green beryl, emerald is linked to fertility, rebirth and unconditional love. It was sacred to Venus, goddess of love and beauty.
June
Pearl & Moonstone
Pearls represent purity and quiet courage. Moonstone, with its ethereal glow, is tied to feminine energy, intuition and emotional balance.
July
Ruby
From soft pink to blood-red corundum, ruby embodies passion, joy and vitality. It was called the “king of gems” in ancient Sanskrit texts.
August
Peridot
This bright lime-green gem is associated with protection, joy and prosperity. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun”.
September
Sapphire
Most famous in royal blue, sapphires come in every colour. They symbolise wisdom, loyalty and divine favour.
October
Opal & Tourmaline
Opal shimmers with hope, creativity and imagination. Tourmaline, in its rainbow hues, is linked to healing, balance and protection.
November
Citrine & Topaz
Golden citrine radiates prosperity and happiness. Topaz, especially in warm tones, represents strength, healing and emotional warmth.
December
Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon
Turquoise offers protection and good fortune. Tanzanite, rare and violet-blue, symbolises transformation and spiritual awareness.
The History of Birthstones
The tradition of attributing meaning to gemstones dates back thousands of years. Ancient cultures—including the Greeks, Romans, Hindus and Hebrews—believed certain stones held protective, healing or spiritual powers, often linked to astrology, seasons or religious rites.
One early reference appears in the Book of Exodus, describing the breastplate of the High Priest adorned with twelve gems representing the tribes of Israel. While not a direct origin, this imagery influenced later symbolic associations.
The modern birthstone list began forming in 18th-century Poland and Germany, where Jewish gem traders popularised wearing a stone corresponding to one’s birth month. By 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers standardised the list, with updates in 1952 and 2002 to include newer gems like tanzanite.
Today, birthstone meanings vary across cultures—some follow ancient lore, others modern interpretations. What remains constant is humanity’s enduring fascination with these gifts from the Earth.
*Meanings are based on historical, cultural and metaphysical traditions and are not scientifically verified. Birthstone lists may vary slightly by region or jeweller.*