In the world of gemstones, few traditions are as widely recognized and personally significant as the association of a specific gem with each month of the year. This custom, known as the birthstone tradition, provides a unique lens through which to explore the geological wonders of our planet, their historical significance, and the cultural beliefs that have surrounded them for centuries. A birthstone chart serves as a comprehensive visual guide, displaying the official gemstones associated with each calendar month. These precious and semi-precious stones have been linked to birth months for centuries, carrying deep cultural significance and symbolic meanings that range from constancy and sincerity to wisdom and protection.
The modern birthstone list, as we know it today, is not a static or ancient decree but a dynamic tradition that has evolved over time. While many cultures and historical periods had their own systems, the most influential standardization in the Western world occurred in 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers in the United States established an official list. This list has been amended several times—in 1952, 2002, and 2016—to include new gemstones that have gained popularity and accessibility, such as tanzanite for December and spinel for August. Consequently, many months now offer multiple choices, allowing individuals to select a stone that appeals to them aesthetically, financially, or symbolically. This guide delves into the gemological properties, historical origins, and symbolic meanings of each month's birthstone, providing a definitive reference for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
Understanding the Birthstone Chart: Tradition, Modernity, and Official Standards
The concept of a birthstone chart is a visual representation that showcases the gemstones associated with each month, serving as a convenient tool for identification and gift-giving. However, the charts available can vary significantly. They are categorized by era (traditional versus modern), by country (e.g., Polish, Italian, or Arabic traditions), and even by astrological sign. This diversity means that a single month can have multiple gemstones listed across different charts, which can be a source of confusion for those seeking a definitive answer.
The Modern Birthstone Chart, which lists one primary gemstone per month, is the most popular version used today. In the United States, the Official Birthstone Chart was declared in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers. This list has been updated over the years to reflect changing tastes and market availability. For instance, the 1952 amendment added alternatives like aquamarine for March and alexandrite for June. The 2002 and 2016 updates further expanded the list, adding tanzanite for December (2002) and spinel for August (2016). Today, six of the twelve months have more than one official birthstone, giving consumers a wider array of choices.
In contrast, the Traditional Birthstone Chart is based on historical and cultural traditions that predate the 1912 standardization. These stones often have deeper historical roots and may be more affordable or accessible than their modern counterparts. For example, while the modern March birthstone is aquamarine, the traditional option is bloodstone. Similarly, for June, the modern list includes alexandrite, while the traditional list features the classic pearl. In the United States, people now draw freely from both lists, selecting stones based on personal preference, budget, or symbolic meaning. Some traditional gems, like turquoise and cultivated pearls, remain popular due to their lower cost and ready availability.
The following table, compiled from the provided sources, offers a comprehensive at-a-glance reference to the modern, traditional, and alternative birthstones for each month, along with their characteristic colors, key symbolism, and hardness on the Mohs scale.
| Month | Modern Birthstone | Traditional/Alternative | Color | Key Symbolism | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | - | Deep Red | Friendship, Trust, Protection | 6.5-7.5 |
| February | Amethyst | - | Purple | Peace, Protection, Tranquility | 7 |
| March | Aquamarine | Bloodstone | Light Blue | Courage, Honesty, Loyalty | 7.5-8 |
| April | Diamond | Rock Crystal | Clear/Colorless | Love, Purity, Strength | 10 |
| May | Emerald | Chrysoprase | Green | Rebirth, Love, Wisdom | 7.5-8 |
| June | Pearl | Alexandrite, Moonstone | White/Cream | Purity, Innocence, Faith | 2.5-4.5 |
| July | Ruby | Carnelian | Red | Passion, Protection, Prosperity | 9 |
| August | Peridot | Spinel, Sardonyx | Lime Green | Strength, Good Fortune, Peace | 6.5-7 |
| September | Sapphire | Lapis Lazuli | Blue | Wisdom, Loyalty, Nobility | 9 |
| October | Opal | Tourmaline | Multicolored | Hope, Creativity, Innocence | 5.5-6.5 |
| November | Topaz | Citrine | Yellow/Orange | Love, Affection, Strength | 8 |
| December | Tanzanite | Turquoise, Zircon | Blue/Purple | Protection, Healing, Wisdom | 6.5-7 |
Hardness is measured on the Mohs scale from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest).
January: Garnet – The Stone of Constancy
The birthstone for January is garnet, a group of silicate minerals known for their lustrous quality and range of colors. While most commonly associated with a deep, rich red, garnets can be found in almost any color, making them versatile gems for jewelry. The most famous red garnets, such as pyrope and almandine, have been treasured for millennia. Interestingly, blue garnets, which are exceptionally rare, were only discovered in the 1990s, highlighting the ongoing discoveries within the gemological world.
From a gemological perspective, garnet has a reasonably tough Mohs hardness rating of around 7, making it durable enough for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and pendants. Most garnet species are not considered rare, which contributes to its status as an affordable and accessible birthstone. Its chemical composition varies depending on the species, but all garnets share a similar cubic crystal structure. This durability and variety have made garnet a popular choice throughout history, often used in signet rings and as a protective talisman.
Symbolically, garnet is traditionally associated with constancy, friendship, trust, and protection. Its deep red color has long been linked to vitality, passion, and the lifeblood, leading to beliefs that it could ward off nightmares and protect against wounds. In the context of the birthstone tradition, it represents steadfastness and loyalty, making it a meaningful gift for a January-born individual.
February: Amethyst – The Stone of Sincerity and Peace
Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a variety of quartz celebrated for its stunning purple hues, ranging from pale lavender to deep violet. This gem has been associated with royalty and spirituality for centuries, and its name is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not intoxicated," as ancient Greeks believed the stone could prevent drunkenness.
With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is relatively durable, though it can fade with prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, so it is best stored away from direct light when not being worn. Its chemical composition is silicon dioxide (SiO₂), the same as all quartz varieties. The color of amethyst is caused by iron impurities and natural irradiation within the crystal lattice. While once considered a rare and precious gem on par with ruby and emerald, large deposits discovered in the 19th century have made it more widely available and affordable today.
The key symbolism for amethyst is sincerity, peace, protection, and tranquility. It is often called a "stone of spirituality" and is believed to promote calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. In the birthstone tradition, it is thought to bring peace of mind and protection to those born in February, making it a popular choice for jewelry meant to soothe and stabilize.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone – Gems of Courage
March offers two distinct birthstones: the modern aquamarine and the traditional bloodstone. Aquamarine, from the beryl family, is prized for its tranquil sea-blue to blue-green color. The name comes from the Latin for "sea water," reflecting its oceanic hues. Aquamarine is a durable gem, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it an excellent choice for jewelry that will withstand daily wear. Its clarity is often exceptional, with fewer inclusions than its cousin, emerald. The gem's color is derived from trace amounts of iron in its chemical structure (Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆).
Bloodstone, the traditional March birthstone, is a dark green chalcedony (a variety of quartz) with distinctive red spots of iron oxide, resembling blood. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7. It is a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, meaning its crystals are too small to be seen without magnification. Bloodstone has a long history of use as a talisman for protection and healing.
Both stones are associated with courage, honesty, and loyalty. Aquamarine is often linked to serenity and clear communication, while bloodstone has been historically worn by soldiers for protection in battle. For those born in March, these stones symbolize bravery and steadfastness.
April: Diamond – The Stone of Innocence and Eternal Love
The diamond, birthstone for April, is the most famous and sought-after gemstone in the world. Renowned for its unmatched brilliance and hardness, it is the hardest natural substance on Earth, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. This exceptional hardness is due to its pure carbon crystal structure, arranged in a rigid cubic lattice. A diamond's colorlessness (or lack of color) is considered its most valued trait, though diamonds can occur in a full spectrum of colors, known as fancy-colored diamonds.
The symbolism of the diamond is profound and universally recognized: innocence, love, purity, and strength. Its indestructible nature has made it a powerful symbol of eternal commitment, which is why it is the traditional stone for engagement rings. For April-born individuals, it represents clarity, balance, and invincibility, making it a timeless and meaningful gem.
May: Emerald – The Stone of Rebirth and Wisdom
Emerald, the birthstone for May, is a captivating variety of beryl known for its vibrant green color. The most prized emeralds exhibit a deep, vivid green with a slight bluish undertone, often referred to as "Jardin" due to the garden-like inclusions commonly found within the stone. Its hardness ranges from 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, but its relative brittleness and common inclusions require careful handling.
The green color of emerald is caused by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Major sources of emeralds include Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil. Historically, emeralds have been treasured by ancient Egyptian pharaohs, Incan rulers, and Mughal emperors, symbolizing rebirth, fertility, and wealth.
In the birthstone tradition, emerald is associated with rebirth, love, wisdom, and successful love. It is believed to promote growth, patience, and harmony. For those born in May, the emerald represents a connection to nature and a symbol of eternal youth and vitality.
June: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone – Gems of Purity
June is unique in offering three birthstones: the traditional pearl, and the modern alternatives of alexandrite and moonstone. Each has distinct properties and origins.
Pearl, the traditional June stone, is an organic gem formed within the soft tissue of a living mollusk. Unlike other gemstones, pearls are not mined but cultivated or harvested. They are composed of calcium carbonate in a crystalline form called aragonite, layered with conchiolin. Their hardness is relatively low, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, making them susceptible to scratches and acids. Pearls are classic symbols of purity, innocence, faith, and wisdom. Their creamy white color and lustrous glow have made them a staple of elegance for centuries.
Alexandrite, a modern birthstone for June, is a variety of chrysoberyl famous for its dramatic color change—from green in daylight to red or purple in incandescent light. This phenomenon, known as the "alexandrite effect," is caused by the specific way the stone absorbs light. Alexandrite is a very hard and durable gem, with a Mohs hardness of 8.5. It is a rare gemstone, first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and named after Czar Alexander II. Its symbolism is linked to joy, good fortune, and prosperity, and its color change is said to represent a balance between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Moonstone, another alternative for June, is a member of the feldspar group, specifically orthoclase or albite. It is prized for its adularescence—a captivating blue or white sheen that glides across the stone's surface as it is moved. Moonstone has a hardness of 6 to 6.5. It is associated with intuition, new beginnings, and feminine energy, often linked to the moon and its cycles.
July: Ruby – The Stone of Passion
The birthstone for July is ruby, a red variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide). Its vibrant red color is caused by trace amounts of chromium. Ruby is one of the most valuable gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond. This exceptional hardness, combined with its brilliant color, makes it highly desirable for jewelry.
The finest rubies, known for their "pigeon's blood" red, historically come from Myanmar (Burma). Other sources include Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique. Throughout history, rubies have been symbols of power, protection, and wealth. In the birthstone tradition, ruby embodies passion, protection, and prosperity. It is believed to energize and motivate, bringing success and good fortune to those born in July.
August: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx – Gems of Strength
August offers a trio of birthstones: the modern peridot, the modern alternative spinel, and the traditional sardonyx.
Peridot, the primary modern birthstone, is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine. It is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color: a distinctive lime green, though the shade can vary from yellowish-green to olive. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7. It is found in volcanic rock and has been mined for thousands of years, with ancient sources in Egypt and the Red Sea. Symbolically, peridot is associated with strength, good fortune, and peace. It is also known as the "evening emerald" for its glow under artificial light.
Spinel, added as a modern alternative in 2016, is a magnesium aluminum oxide with a hardness of 8. It occurs in a wide range of colors, including vibrant reds, pinks, blues, and blacks. Historically, many famous "rubies" were actually red spinels, such as the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown. Spinel symbolizes renewal and revitalization.
Sardonyx, the traditional August stone, is a banded variety of chalcedony, combining layers of sard (reddish-brown) and onyx (black or white). With a hardness of 6.5 to 7, it has been used for cameos and intaglios since antiquity. It is traditionally associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication.
September: Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli – Gems of Wisdom
September's birthstones are sapphire (modern) and lapis lazuli (traditional). Sapphire, a variety of corundum, is most famous for its deep blue color, though it can occur in all colors except red (which is ruby). Its hardness of 9 makes it exceptionally durable. The blue color is typically due to trace amounts of iron and titanium. The most prized sapphires come from Kashmir, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Sapphire symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, nobility, and truth. It has long been associated with royalty and the divine.
Lapis Lazuli, the traditional stone, is not a single mineral but a rock composed primarily of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. Its intense blue color has been treasured for over 6,000 years, used in jewelry, ornamental objects, and ground for pigment (ultramarine). With a hardness of 5 to 6, it requires careful handling. Lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and inner power.
October: Opal and Tourmaline – Gems of Hope and Creativity
October provides two vibrant birthstones: opal (traditional) and tourmaline (modern).
Opal is unique for its play-of-color, a phenomenon where flashes of spectral color appear as the stone is moved. It is composed of hydrated silica (SiO₂·nH₂O) and has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, making it relatively soft and prone to cracking. Opal's symbolism includes hope, innocence, and creativity. Its ever-changing colors are said to inspire imagination and artistic expression.
Tourmaline, the modern alternative, is a complex borosilicate mineral known for its incredible color diversity—so much so that it is sometimes called the "rainbow gemstone." It has a hardness of 7 to 7.5. Tourmaline can be found in every color, with specific varieties like pink (rubellite), green (verdelite), and blue (indicolite). It is believed to inspire creativity, balance, and protection. For October-born individuals, tourmaline represents a spectrum of positive energies.
November: Topaz and Citrine – Gems of Loyalty and Affection
November's birthstones are topaz (modern) and citrine (traditional). Topaz in its pure form is colorless, but it is most commonly associated with a rich golden-yellow or orange-brown color. It has a high hardness of 8, making it very durable. The famous Imperial Topaz, with its sherry-orange hue, is particularly prized. Topaz symbolizes love, affection, and strength.
Citrine, a variety of quartz, is known for its warm yellow to orange-brown color. It is a durable stone with a hardness of 7. Its color is caused by iron impurities. Citrine is often called the "merchant's stone" and is associated with prosperity, success, and joy. It is an affordable and attractive alternative to topaz.
December: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon – Gems of Protection
December offers a choice of three birthstones: the modern tanzanite, and the traditional turquoise and zircon.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent addition (2002), is a blue-to-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It was first discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s and is found only in that region. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7, it requires careful setting and care. Its trichroic nature—showing blue, violet, and red-brown colors from different angles—is a key feature. Tanzanite symbolizes protection, healing, and wisdom.
Turquoise, the traditional stone, is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral (hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum). It has a hardness of 5 to 6 and has been used for millennia by cultures worldwide, especially in the Americas and the Middle East. Turquoise is a classic stone of protection, healing, and good fortune.
Zircon (not to be confused with synthetic cubic zirconia) is a natural gemstone that occurs in a variety of colors, with blue zircon being the most popular for December. It has a high hardness of 7.5 and excellent brilliance. Blue zircon is heat-treated to achieve its color. It symbolizes success, wisdom, and prosperity.
Care and Cleaning of Birthstones
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of birthstone jewelry. The gem's hardness, cleavage, and stability determine the best cleaning methods. The following guidelines are based on the gemological properties outlined in the sources.
- Durable Stones (Hardness 7.5 and above): Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, topaz, and spinel can be cleaned with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. They are resistant to most chemicals and can handle ultrasonic cleaners (except for stones with fractures).
- Moderately Durable Stones (Hardness 6.5-7): Garnet, peridot, amethyst, citrine, and tanzanite require gentler care. Avoid sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally not recommended. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap.
- Soft and Brittle Stones (Hardness below 6.5): Opal, turquoise, lapis lazuli, pearl, and moonstone are more delicate. They should never be cleaned with ultrasonic devices or steam. Clean them with a damp, soft cloth only. Avoid prolonged water exposure, especially for pearls and opals, which can absorb water and become damaged. Store them separately to prevent scratches.
For all gemstones, it is advisable to remove jewelry before engaging in physical activities, household chores, or swimming to avoid impacts and exposure to chemicals like chlorine and bleach.
Conclusion
The birthstone tradition offers a rich tapestry of geological science, historical lore, and personal symbolism. From the deep red of January's garnet to the vibrant blue of December's tanzanite, each gem tells a story of formation, discovery, and cultural significance. The modern birthstone chart, with its blend of official standards and traditional alternatives, provides a flexible framework for individuals to connect with a gemstone that resonates with them personally. Whether chosen for its durability, color, symbolic meaning, or simply its beauty, a birthstone is more than an accessory; it is a personal talisman that links the wearer to the ancient and enduring wonders of the mineral world.