A birthstone chart is a definitive visual and informational guide that assigns specific precious and semi-precious gemstones to each month of the year. These stones carry deep cultural significance and symbolic meanings that have been celebrated for centuries. Modern birthstone charts, such as the one maintained by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), provide a standardized list that is widely used today, while also acknowledging traditional and alternative stones that offer a broader palette of choice for jewelry enthusiasts. This article serves as a comprehensive reference, exploring the official birthstones for each month, their historical evolution, gemological properties, and the symbolic meanings that make them cherished gifts and personal talismans.
The concept of birthstones is rooted in ancient traditions, where stones were first linked to the twelve tribes of Israel and later associated with zodiac signs. Over time, these associations evolved into the calendar-based system we recognize today. Official standardization began in the United States in the early 20th century, with subsequent updates adding new stones to reflect modern discoveries and market availability. For instance, the addition of tanzanite in 2002 marked the first major change to the list in fifty years, while spinel was added to August in 2016. This ongoing evolution ensures the birthstone chart remains a living document, blending historical reverence with contemporary gemology.
This guide will delve into the modern birthstone chart, examining each month's primary stone, its traditional alternatives, key colors, hardness, and symbolic meanings. We will also explore the historical journey of these stones, from ancient lore to modern standardization, and provide practical advice on care and selection. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer seeking a meaningful gift, or a student of gemology, this article offers an in-depth look at the gems that mark our birthdays.
History and Lore: The Evolution of Birthstone Charts
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to birth months is a tapestry woven from ancient religious texts, astrological beliefs, and commercial standardization. The origins can be traced back to the first century AD, when the Jewish historian Josephus made a connection between the twelve stones in the breastplate of the High Priest of Israel and the twelve signs of the zodiac. This early association laid the groundwork for linking gemstones to celestial bodies and, eventually, to calendar months.
The transition from zodiac signs to calendar months was gradual. By the 16th century, the practice of wearing a specific gemstone corresponding to one's birth month was well-established in Poland and other parts of Europe. These stones were believed to offer protection, enhance personal qualities, and bring good fortune. The traditional list that emerged from this period included stones like bloodstone for March and sardonyx for August, which remain popular alternatives today.
The first major step toward official standardization in the United States came in 1912, when the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) convened to create a definitive list. This initial chart aimed to resolve inconsistencies and provide a reliable reference for jewelers and consumers. The 1912 list included many stones that are still recognized as modern birthstones, such as garnet for January and diamond for April. However, the chart was not static. The association has since updated the list to incorporate new discoveries and market trends.
A significant revision occurred in 1952, when alexandrite was added to June, citrine to November, and pink tourmaline to October. These additions provided more color options and acknowledged the growing popularity of these stones. Another pivotal update came in 2002, when the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) added tanzanite as an additional birthstone for December. This was the first change to the list in half a century, reflecting the discovery of this vibrant blue-violet gemstone in Tanzania in the 1960s. More recently, in 2016, spinel was added as an alternative for August, offering a durable and colorful option alongside peridot and sardonyx.
Beyond the official American chart, various cultural and mystical systems have their own birthstone associations. The traditional British chart, for example, includes bloodstone for March and rock crystal for April as alternatives. The Hindu Ayurvedic system is based on astrological signs rather than calendar months, while the Tibetan Mystical Chart features a different set of stones with spiritual significance. These variations highlight the diverse ways different cultures have interpreted the connection between gemstones and human life.
The Modern Birthstone Chart: A Month-by-Month Guide
The following sections detail the modern birthstone for each month, as established by the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association. For each stone, we outline its primary color, hardness (on the Mohs scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 the hardest), key symbolism, and any notable traditional alternatives.
January: Garnet
Modern Birthstone: Garnet Traditional/Alternative: Garnet Color: Deep Red (most common, but available in a wide spectrum) Hardness: 6.5-7.5 Key Symbolism: Friendship, Trust, Protection
Garnet, the birthstone for January, is a silicate mineral group comprising several related species of lustrous gemstones that range from transparent to opaque. While the most common color is a rich, deep red, garnets can be found in almost every color of the rainbow. Notably, blue garnets, the rarest variety, were discovered in the 1990s. Most garnet species are not considered rare, making them an accessible and popular choice for jewelry. Their reasonably tough hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale ensures durability for everyday wear. Symbolically, garnet is associated with constancy, friendship, and protection, making it a meaningful gift for those born in January.
February: Amethyst
Modern Birthstone: Amethyst Traditional/Alternative: Amethyst Color: Purple Hardness: 7 Key Symbolism: Peace, Protection, Tranquility
Amethyst, a variety of quartz, is the official birthstone for February. Known for its captivating purple hues, ranging from pale lavender to deep violet, amethyst has been cherished for centuries. Its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale makes it a durable gemstone suitable for various jewelry types. Historically, amethyst was considered a stone of royalty and was believed to prevent intoxication and promote clarity of mind. Today, it is symbolically linked to sincerity, peace, and tranquility. As a member of the quartz family, it is relatively abundant, though high-quality deep-colored specimens are highly valued.
March: Aquamarine
Modern Birthstone: Aquamarine Traditional/Alternative: Bloodstone Color: Light Blue Hardness: 7.5-8 Key Symbolism: Courage, Honesty, Loyalty
Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, derives its name from the Latin words for "sea water," reflecting its serene blue to blue-green coloration. It is a variety of the mineral beryl, the same family as emerald and morganite. With a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is exceptionally durable and resistant to scratching, making it an excellent choice for rings and other frequently worn jewelry. Its symbolism is tied to courage, honesty, and loyalty. The traditional alternative for March is bloodstone, a dark green chalcedony with red speckles, which has its own historical significance.
April: Diamond
Modern Birthstone: Diamond Traditional/Alternative: Diamond (Rock Crystal is listed as an alternative in some traditional charts) Color: Clear/Colorless (though diamonds occur in a full spectrum of colors) Hardness: 10 Key Symbolism: Love, Purity, Strength
Diamond, the birthstone for April, is the hardest known natural material, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. Composed of pure carbon, its exceptional hardness and brilliant luster have made it the ultimate symbol of enduring love and commitment. While colorless diamonds are the most traditional, fancy-colored diamonds (such as yellow, blue, or pink) are also celebrated. Symbolically, diamonds represent innocence, purity, and strength. Their unparalleled durability makes them ideal for heirloom jewelry and daily wear. Some traditional charts also list rock crystal (clear quartz) as an alternative, offering a more affordable option with similar clarity.
May: Emerald
Modern Birthstone: Emerald Traditional/Alternative: Emerald (Chrysoprase is listed as an alternative in some traditional charts) Color: Green Hardness: 7.5-8 Key Symbolism: Rebirth, Love, Wisdom
Emerald, the birthstone for May, is a breathtaking green variety of the mineral beryl. Its vivid color is due to trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. With a hardness of 7.5-8, it is relatively durable but requires careful handling due to its common inclusions, which are often considered part of the stone's character. Emeralds have been prized since ancient times, associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. The most famous sources historically include Colombia, which remains a leading producer today. Symbolically, emeralds are linked to wisdom, growth, and harmony.
June: Pearl & Alexandrite
Modern Birthstone: Pearl & Alexandrite Traditional/Alternative: Pearl (Alexandrite and Moonstone are modern alternatives) Color: White/Cream (Pearl); Alexandrite exhibits a unique color change (green to red) Hardness: 2.5-4.5 (Pearl); 8.5 (Alexandrite) Key Symbolism: Purity, Innocence, Faith (Pearl); Joy, Balance (Alexandrite)
June is unique in having two official modern birthstones: pearl and alexandrite. Pearls are organic gems formed within mollusks. They are relatively soft (2.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale) and require special care to avoid scratches and chemicals. Cultured pearls have made this gemstone more accessible. Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and faith. Alexandrite, a variety of chrysoberyl, is renowned for its dramatic color change—appearing green in daylight and red or purplish-red under incandescent light. Discovered in Russia in the 1830s, it is a much harder gemstone (8.5 on the Mohs scale) and symbolizes joy and balance. Moonstone is also sometimes listed as a traditional alternative for June.
July: Ruby
Modern Birthstone: Ruby Traditional/Alternative: Ruby (Carnelian is listed as an alternative in some traditional charts) Color: Red Hardness: 9 Key Symbolism: Passion, Protection, Prosperity
Ruby, the birthstone for July, is a red variety of the mineral corundum (sapphire is the blue variety). Its color is due to the presence of chromium. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, making it exceptionally durable for jewelry. Historically, rubies have been associated with power, passion, and protection. The finest rubies, known for their vivid "pigeon's blood" red, command some of the highest prices in the gemstone market. Symbolically, rubies represent vitality, prosperity, and success.
August: Peridot & Spinel
Modern Birthstone: Peridot & Spinel Traditional/Alternative: Peridot, Spinel (Sardonyx is a traditional alternative) Color: Lime Green (Peridot); Various colors (Spinel) Hardness: 6.5-7 (Peridot); 8 (Spinel) Key Symbolism: Strength, Good Fortune, Peace (Peridot); Protection, Renewal (Spinel)
August has two modern birthstones: peridot and spinel. Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, known for its distinctive lime-green color. It is relatively durable (6.5-7 on the Mohs scale) and is often found in volcanic rocks. Peridot is associated with strength, good fortune, and peace. Spinel, added to the official list in 2016, is a durable gemstone (8 on the Mohs scale) available in a wide range of colors, including vibrant reds, pinks, and blues. Historically, many famous "rubies" were actually spinels. It symbolizes protection and renewal. The traditional alternative for August is sardonyx, a banded chalcedony.
September: Sapphire
Modern Birthstone: Sapphire Traditional/Alternative: Sapphire (Lapis Lazuli is listed as an alternative in some traditional charts) Color: Blue Hardness: 9 Key Symbolism: Wisdom, Loyalty, Nobility
Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is the blue variety of corundum. Its color ranges from light to deep royal blue, caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium. With a hardness of 9, sapphire is extremely durable, second only to diamond. It has been associated with royalty, wisdom, and divine favor throughout history. The most prized sapphires come from Kashmir and Myanmar, though significant sources include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Australia. Symbolically, sapphires represent truth, loyalty, and nobility. Lapis lazuli, a rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite, is sometimes offered as a traditional alternative, known for its deep blue color with golden flecks.
October: Opal & Tourmaline
Modern Birthstone: Opal & Tourmaline Traditional/Alternative: Opal (Tourmaline is a modern alternative) Color: Multicolored (Opal); Various (Tourmaline) Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Opal); 7-7.5 (Tourmaline) Key Symbolism: Hope, Creativity, Innocence (Opal); Protection, Healing (Tourmaline)
October is represented by two modern birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Opal is a hydrated silica mineral prized for its unique play-of-color, a phenomenon where flashes of spectral colors appear as the stone is moved. It is relatively soft (5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale) and requires careful handling to avoid cracking. Opal symbolizes hope, creativity, and innocence. Tourmaline, a complex borosilicate mineral, is known for its incredible color variety, often found in crystals with multiple colors in a single specimen. With a hardness of 7-7.5, it is durable for jewelry. Tourmaline is associated with protection and healing. The traditional birthstone for October is opal, with tourmaline as a modern addition.
November: Topaz & Citrine
Modern Birthstone: Topaz & Citrine Traditional/Alternative: Topaz (Citrine is a modern alternative) Color: Yellow/Orange Hardness: 8 (Topaz); 7 (Citrine) Key Symbolism: Love, Affection, Strength (Topaz); Success, Prosperity (Citrine)
November has two modern birthstones: topaz and citrine. Topaz, particularly the yellow to orange variety (often called imperial topaz), is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is a silicate mineral and should not be confused with the yellow quartz sold as "topaz" in the past. Topaz symbolizes love, affection, and strength. Citrine, a variety of quartz, ranges from pale yellow to brownish orange. With a hardness of 7, it is suitable for jewelry and is associated with success, prosperity, and healing. The traditional birthstone for November is topaz, with citrine recognized as a modern alternative.
December: Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise
Modern Birthstone: Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz Traditional/Alternative: Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli Color: Blue/Purple (Tanzanite); Various (Zircon); Turquoise (Blue-Green) Hardness: 6.5-7 (Tanzanite); 6.5-7.5 (Zircon); 5-6 (Turquoise) Key Symbolism: Protection, Healing, Wisdom (Tanzanite); Success, Honor (Zircon); Protection, Good Fortune (Turquoise)
December offers a palette of blue gemstones. Tanzanite, a variety of zoisite, is known for its striking blue to violet hues and exhibits trichroism (showing three different colors from different angles). Discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, it was added to the birthstone list in 2002. With a hardness of 6.5-7, it requires careful setting and care. Blue zircon, a natural gemstone (not to be confused with cubic zirconia), is available in a range of blue shades and has a hardness of 6.5-7.5. It is associated with success and honor. Blue topaz, a treated variety of topaz, is also included. The traditional birthstones for December are turquoise, a porous blue-green mineral (hardness 5-6), and lapis lazuli. Turquoise is revered for its protective qualities and has been used in jewelry for millennia.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
Understanding the physical properties of birthstones is essential for selecting appropriate jewelry and ensuring proper care. The table below summarizes key gemological data for the modern birthstones, including hardness on the Mohs scale and notable characteristics.
| Month | Modern Birthstone(s) | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | 6.5-7.5 | Silicate mineral group; wide color range; common. |
| February | Amethyst | 7 | Purple quartz; durable; abundant. |
| March | Aquamarine | 7.5-8 | Blue beryl; very durable; excellent for rings. |
| April | Diamond | 10 | Pure carbon; hardest natural material; brilliant luster. |
| May | Emerald | 7.5-8 | Green beryl; often included; vivid color from chromium. |
| June | Pearl | 2.5-4.5 | Organic gem; soft; requires careful handling. |
| June | Alexandrite | 8.5 | Color-change chrysoberyl; very durable; rare. |
| July | Ruby | 9 | Red corundum; extremely hard; valuable. |
| August | Peridot | 6.5-7 | Olivine; lime-green color; found in volcanic rocks. |
| August | Spinel | 8 | Wide color range; durable; historically mistaken for ruby. |
| September | Sapphire | 9 | Blue corundum; extremely hard; royal associations. |
| October | Opal | 5.5-6.5 | Hydrated silica; play-of-color; soft. |
| October | Tourmaline | 7-7.5 | Complex borosilicate; wide color variety; durable. |
| November | Topaz | 8 | Silicate mineral; yellow/orange varieties; hard. |
| November | Citrine | 7 | Yellow quartz; durable; affordable. |
| December | Tanzanite | 6.5-7 | Zoisite variety; trichroic; color from blue to violet. |
| December | Blue Zircon | 6.5-7.5 | Natural zircon; high refractive index; brilliant. |
| December | Blue Topaz | 8 | Treated topaz; widely available; light blue. |
Note: Hardness values are based on the Mohs scale and are approximate. Traditional alternatives like bloodstone, sardonyx, and turquoise are generally softer and require more careful handling.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, birthstones are imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs that have been passed down through generations. These associations often stem from ancient lore, religious texts, and cultural traditions.
- Garnet (January): Symbolizes constancy, friendship, and protection. It was historically believed to guard against poison and was a talisman for travelers.
- Amethyst (February): Associated with peace, protection, and tranquility. Ancient Greeks believed it could prevent intoxication and promote a clear mind.
- Aquamarine (March): Represents courage, honesty, and loyalty. Sailors historically wore it as a talisman for safe passage across the sea.
- Diamond (April): The ultimate symbol of love, purity, and strength. Its indestructibility makes it a metaphor for eternal commitment.
- Emerald (May): Linked to rebirth, love, and wisdom. Ancient Egyptians associated it with fertility and eternal life.
- Pearl (June): Signifies purity, innocence, and faith. Formed organically, it is often connected to the moon and feminine energy.
- Alexandrite (June): Symbolizes joy, balance, and good fortune. Its color change is seen as a balance of opposites.
- Ruby (July): Represents passion, protection, and prosperity. It was believed to bring good fortune and was worn by royalty for its power.
- Peridot (August): Associated with strength, good fortune, and peace. It was believed to ward off evil spirits and nightmares.
- Spinel (August): Symbolizes protection and renewal. Historically, it was thought to promote healing and vitality.
- Sapphire (September): Represents wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It was worn by clergy and royalty as a symbol of divine favor.
- Opal (October): Symbolizes hope, creativity, and innocence. Its play-of-color is seen as a capture of all colors and light.
- Tourmaline (October): Associated with protection and healing. Different colors are believed to have specific energies, such as pink for love.
- Topaz (November): Symbolizes love, affection, and strength. It was believed to promote mental clarity and physical strength.
- Citrine (November): Known as the "merchant's stone," it is associated with success, prosperity, and healing.
- Tanzanite (December): Represents protection, healing, and wisdom. Its discovery is modern, but it has quickly gained symbolic significance.
- Blue Zircon (December): Symbolizes success, honor, and purity. It is believed to bring peace and prosperity.
- Turquoise (December): A traditional stone of protection, good fortune, and healing. It has been used by numerous cultures as a talisman.
It is important to note that these metaphysical beliefs are cultural and historical in nature. While many people find personal meaning in these associations, they are not supported by scientific evidence and should be considered part of the gemstone's rich lore.
Care and Cleaning: Preserving Your Birthstone
The durability of a gemstone, primarily determined by its hardness and cleavage, dictates how it should be cared for and cleaned. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and brilliance of birthstone jewelry.
- High-Hardness Stones (Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire): With a Mohs hardness of 9-10, these stones are extremely durable. They can be cleaned with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has fractures or inclusions.
- Moderate-Hardness Stones (Amethyst, Aquamarine, Emerald, Spinel, Topaz, Citrine, Tanzanite): These stones (hardness 7-8.5) are generally durable for daily wear but should be protected from sharp blows. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid steam cleaners for emeralds due to common inclusions and fractures. Tanzanite should be cleaned gently and stored separately to avoid scratches.
- Softer Stones (Garnet, Peridot, Opal, Turquoise, Pearl): Stones with hardness below 7 require more care. Garnet (6.5-7.5) and peridot (6.5-7) are relatively durable but can be scratched by harder materials. Opal (5.5-6.5) and turquoise (5-6) are porous and sensitive to chemicals, heat, and sudden temperature changes. Clean them with a soft, damp cloth only; avoid soaking or using ultrasonic cleaners. Pearls (2.5-4.5) are the most delicate; wipe with a soft cloth after wearing and avoid contact with cosmetics, perfumes, and water.
General Care Tips: - Store birthstone jewelry separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratching. - Remove jewelry before engaging in physical activities, housework, or swimming. - Have jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned periodically, especially for pieces with multiple stones or intricate settings.
Conclusion
The birthstone chart is more than a simple reference guide; it is a bridge connecting ancient traditions with modern gemology. From the deep red of January's garnet to the vibrant blue of December's tanzanite, each gemstone carries a unique story of formation, cultural significance, and symbolic meaning. The official list, standardized by American jewelry associations and periodically updated, offers a reliable framework for gift-giving and personal adornment, while traditional and alternative stones provide additional choices for individual expression.
Understanding the historical evolution of these stones enriches our appreciation of them, reminding us that the practice of wearing a birthstone is part of a centuries-old human desire to find connection and meaning in the natural world. Equally important is knowledge of their gemological properties, which guides us in selecting durable pieces and caring for them properly. Whether chosen for their symbolic power, aesthetic beauty, or personal resonance, birthstones remain enduring symbols of identity and celebration.