A birthstone chart is a comprehensive visual guide that displays the official gemstones associated with each month of the year. These precious and semi-precious stones have been linked to birth months for centuries, carrying deep cultural significance and symbolic meanings. The concept of birthstones is not a modern invention; early examples of their use first appeared thousands of years ago. For instance, the Bible in the book of Exodus talks about 12 different stones, most of which are used in our modern-day birthstone color chart. Since the beginning of time, humans have associated various gems and stones with symbolic events, including anniversaries, birthdays, biblical meanings, and astrology. The United States has created an official birthstone list, assigning a different gemstone for each month of the year. It consists of 12 different minerals, each with varying gems of multiple colors. By referring to a birthstone chart, individuals can easily discover their designated birthstone based on their birth month. This information holds significance in various cultural beliefs and traditions, as different gemstones are believed to bring luck, protection, and positive energy to those born in specific months.
Birthstone charts are a popular and convenient way to identify which gemstone corresponds to a specific birth month. These charts serve as a valuable reference tool to understand the symbolic meanings and associations attributed to each gemstone linked with different months of the year. There are a variety of birthstone charts as one may have already discovered, including charts by era (traditional vs. modern), by country (e.g., Polish, Italian), by culture (e.g., Arabic, Hebrew), or by Zodiac sign (e.g., astrological, planetary). Some birthstone charts have more than one gemstone per month or list secondary or alternative gemstones. Sometimes even the same chart type, for example a Traditional Birthstone Chart, can differ from source to source. The Modern Birthstone Chart lists one gemstone per month and is the most popular version. The gemstone listed is the primary official birthstone of that month.
The Official Birthstone Chart for the USA was declared in 1912 with subsequent amendments in 1952, 2002, and 2016. Six of the months have more than one official birthstone. The National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) established the first official birthstone chart in the United States, creating a standardized list that's still widely used today. The birthstone chart received its first significant revision, adding alexandrite to June, citrine to November, and pink tourmaline to October as alternative options. The American Gem Trade Association added tanzanite as a December birthstone, marking the first change to the list in 50 years. Spinel was added as an additional birthstone for August, providing more color options alongside peridot and sardonyx. Cultural variations in birthstone charts include the Traditional British Chart, which includes bloodstone for March and rock crystal for April as alternatives; the Hindu Ayurvedic System, based on astrological signs rather than calendar months; the Tibetan Mystical Chart, which features different stones with spiritual significance; and the Modern Alternative Chart, which includes more affordable options for precious stones.
A birthstone chart is an excellent tool for gift selection, helping to choose meaningful, personalized gifts for loved ones. Each gemstone carries unique significance, making birthstone jewelry a thoughtful present for birthdays, anniversaries, or special milestones. Jewelers and designers rely on birthstone charts to create custom pieces, whether crafting engagement rings, family jewelry, or personalized accessories. Teachers, students, and gemstone enthusiasts use birthstone charts as educational tools to learn about mineralogy, cultural traditions, and the historical significance of each precious stone. Many believe these gems offer protection, healing properties, and spiritual benefits unique to those born in each month. Birthstone charts can also be used for color coordination to coordinate jewelry with outfits and occasions.
The following table, compiled from the provided sources, offers a comprehensive overview of the official and traditional birthstones for each month, including their 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).
Historical Evolution and Standardization
The concept of birthstones has a rich and complex history that spans millennia. The association of specific gems with specific months is not a static tradition but one that has evolved significantly over time. The earliest known reference to a connection between twelve stones and the twelve tribes of Israel, and by extension the twelve signs of the zodiac and months of the year, is found in the Bible. The book of Exodus describes the High Priest's breastplate, which was adorned with twelve different stones, each representing one of the tribes. This ancient practice laid the groundwork for the later association of these stones with calendar months. Over centuries, these stones became associated with zodiac signs and eventually the calendar months as we know them today.
The modern, standardized system of birthstones in the United States began to take shape in the early 20th century. The National Association of Jewelers, which later became the Jewelers of America, played a pivotal role in this process. In 1912, the association established the first official birthstone chart for the United States. This list was created to provide a standardized reference for jewelers and consumers, moving away from the many regional and cultural variations that existed at the time. The 1912 list was not set in stone, however. It has been updated several times to reflect changing tastes, the discovery of new gemstones, and the desire to offer more variety and choice.
The first major revision occurred in 1952. During this update, several alternative stones were added to the existing list. For June, alexandrite was added alongside pearl. For November, citrine was added as an alternative to topaz. Pink tourmaline was added to October as an alternative to opal. These additions acknowledged the popularity of these stones and provided more color options for those born in these months.
Another significant change came in 2002, when the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) added tanzanite as a birthstone for December. This was a notable event, as it marked the first change to the official list in 50 years. Tanzanite, a relatively new gemstone discovered in the 20th century in Tanzania, had gained immense popularity for its striking blue-violet hue. Its inclusion represented a modern update to the traditional list, which already included turquoise and zircon for December.
The most recent addition to the official list came in 2016. The Jewelers of America and the AGTA added spinel as an additional birthstone for August. Prior to this, August's birthstones were peridot and sardonyx. Spinel, which comes in a variety of colors including vibrant reds, pinks, and blues, was added to provide even more options for those born in the eighth month. This change highlighted the ongoing evolution of the birthstone tradition, adapting to include gems that are both historically significant and commercially important.
Cultural Variations in Birthstone Charts
While the official U.S. chart is widely recognized, it is important to note that it is not the only system in existence. Different cultures and traditions around the world have their own birthstone charts, often based on different criteria such as astrology, Ayurvedic medicine, or historical local traditions.
The traditional British birthstone chart differs slightly from the American one. For example, it includes bloodstone as an alternative for March (alongside aquamarine) and rock crystal as an alternative for April (alongside diamond). Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony with red spots, and rock crystal is a colorless variety of quartz. These alternatives reflect historical European preferences.
The Hindu Ayurvedic system is based on astrological signs rather than calendar months. In this system, specific gems are recommended based on the position of the planets at the time of birth, with the goal of balancing cosmic energies and promoting health and well-being. The stones used in this system often overlap with those in the Western tradition but are assigned based on a different framework.
The Tibetan mystical chart is another example of a culturally specific system. It features different stones with spiritual significance, often chosen for their vibrational properties or their connection to specific deities or concepts in Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions.
Furthermore, a modern alternative chart has emerged, which includes more affordable options for precious stones. For instance, for the month of April, instead of the expensive diamond, some alternative charts suggest white sapphire or cubic zirconia. For June, moonstone is sometimes listed alongside pearl and alexandrite. These alternative charts make birthstone jewelry more accessible to a wider audience.
Gemological Properties and Practical Considerations
Understanding the gemological properties of birthstones is crucial for both appreciation and care. The hardness of a gemstone, measured on the Mohs scale, is a key factor in its durability and suitability for different types of jewelry. For example, diamond, the birthstone for April, is the hardest known natural material, scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale. This makes it exceptionally resistant to scratching and ideal for rings that are worn daily, such as engagement rings.
In contrast, the birthstones for June (pearl) and October (opal) have significantly lower hardness values. Pearls range from 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, and opals range from 5.5 to 6.5. This means they are more susceptible to damage from abrasion and require careful handling. Jewelry featuring these stones is better suited for earrings, pendants, or rings that are not subject to constant impact, such as cocktail rings.
The chemical composition and formation of these stones also vary widely. Diamonds are composed of pure carbon and form deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme heat and pressure. Gemstones like aquamarine (beryl), emerald (beryl), and morganite (a pink beryl) are also formed in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Garnets, a group of silicate minerals, form in metamorphic rocks. Pearls are unique among gemstones as they are organic, formed within the soft tissue of a living mollusk.
The sources of these gemstones are geographically diverse. For instance, the finest emeralds have historically come from Colombia, though they are also mined in Zambia, Brazil, and other countries. Rubies are most famously associated with Myanmar (Burma), but significant deposits are also found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Africa. Sapphires, particularly the prized blue varieties, come from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Kashmir. Diamonds are mined in several countries, with Botswana, Russia, and Canada being major producers today. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that can be found in meteorites, but its primary commercial source is the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, USA, as well as Pakistan and Myanmar.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical properties, birthstones are deeply imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical beliefs that have been passed down through generations. These associations add a layer of personal and spiritual significance to the gems, making them much more than mere decorative objects.
January - Garnet: Symbolizing constancy, garnet is believed to offer protection during travel and to promote friendship and trust. Its deep red color has long been associated with vitality and passion.
February - Amethyst: Known as a stone of peace and tranquility, amethyst is thought to calm the mind and relieve stress. It is also associated with sincerity and spiritual wisdom.
March - Aquamarine: This light blue gem, reminiscent of the sea, is linked to courage, honesty, and loyalty. Sailors historically wore aquamarine for protection on voyages. Bloodstone, the traditional alternative, was believed to have healing properties and to stop bleeding.
April - Diamond: As the ultimate symbol of love, purity, and strength, diamond is believed to bring clarity, balance, and abundance. Its unparalleled hardness makes it a metaphor for enduring relationships.
May - Emerald: The rich green of emerald represents rebirth, love, and wisdom. It is often associated with fertility and is believed to promote growth, renewal, and prosperity.
June - Pearl: Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and faith. They are organic gems that form over time, representing wisdom gained through experience. Alexandrite, the alternative, is a stone of joy and optimism, said to bring good fortune and balance.
July - Ruby: The fiery red ruby is a stone of passion, protection, and prosperity. It is believed to stimulate vitality, energy, and leadership, and to ward off negative energy.
August - Peridot: This lime green gem is associated with strength, good fortune, and peace. Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun," believing it protected against evil and darkness. Spinel, the newer addition, is believed to revitalize and inspire.
September - Sapphire: The blue sapphire is a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It is thought to bring mental clarity, focus, and spiritual enlightenment, and to attract divine favor.
October - Opal: With its play-of-color, opal represents hope, creativity, and innocence. It is considered a stone of inspiration and imagination. Tourmaline, the alternative, is known as a "grounding" stone, believed to dispel negative energy and promote self-confidence.
November - Topaz: Topaz, particularly the imperial variety, symbolizes love and affection. It is believed to promote truth, forgiveness, and good health. Citrine, the alternative, is known as the "merchant's stone," said to attract wealth, prosperity, and success.
December - Tanzanite: This relatively new gem, with its captivating blue-purple hue, is associated with protection, healing, and wisdom. It is believed to promote spiritual growth and transformation. Turquoise, a traditional alternative, is a protective stone that has been used for centuries to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of birthstone jewelry. The cleaning method should be tailored to the specific gemstone's properties, particularly its hardness, cleavage, and porosity.
Hard Stones (Mohs 7 and above): Birthstones like diamond (10), ruby (9), sapphire (9), topaz (8), and aquamarine (7.5-8) are relatively durable. They can be cleaned with warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for these stones, but caution is advised if the jewelry has fractures or inclusions. Steam cleaning is also an option for diamonds and sapphires, but not for treated stones or those with fractures.
Medium-Hardness Stones (Mohs 6.5-7.5): Garnet (6.5-7.5), amethyst (7), peridot (6.5-7), and tanzanite (6.5-7) require gentle care. Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic cleaners, which can cause damage. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
Soft and Porous Stones (Mohs below 6.5): This category includes pearls (2.5-4.5), opals (5.5-6.5), and turquoise (5-6). These stones are highly susceptible to damage. Pearls are organic and can be damaged by acids, perfumes, and cosmetics. They should be wiped with a soft, damp cloth after each wear and stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. Opals are sensitive to dehydration and sudden temperature changes; they should be cleaned only with a soft, damp cloth. Turquoise is porous and can be stained by chemicals, so it should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth and kept away from water and lotions.
For all birthstone jewelry, it is advisable to remove pieces before engaging in physical activities, swimming, or applying beauty products to prevent damage and loss.
Conclusion
The official birthstone chart is a fascinating synthesis of history, geology, and culture. It provides a standardized yet flexible framework for connecting individuals with a gemstone that is personally meaningful. From the ancient origins in the biblical breastplate to the modern revisions by the Jewelers of America, the tradition has continuously evolved, incorporating new discoveries and cultural influences. The chart offers a diverse palette of gems, from the brilliant diamond to the organic pearl, each with unique properties, symbolism, and care requirements. Whether used for selecting a thoughtful gift, designing custom jewelry, or simply exploring the rich tapestry of gemstone lore, the birthstone chart remains a valuable and enduring reference for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.