Birthstones have captivated human imagination for centuries, serving as both personal adornments and symbols of deeper spiritual and historical meaning. These gemstones are linked to the 12 months of the year and have been cherished for their beauty, rarity, and the lore that surrounds them. The tradition of birthstones dates back to ancient times, evolving over the centuries into the modern list we recognize today. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the 12 birthstones by month, exploring their geological properties, historical significance, cultural symbolism, and their role in modern jewelry and spiritual practices.
A Brief History of Birthstones
The concept of birthstones is rooted in religious and cultural traditions that trace back thousands of years. The earliest known reference to birthstones appears in the Book of Exodus, where it is described that Aaron, the brother of Moses, wore a breastplate adorned with 12 gemstones during his time as a high priest. These stones were believed to represent the 12 tribes of Israel and were arranged in four rows of three. The exact identities of these stones are debated among scholars due to the imprecise naming conventions of ancient gemology, where stones were often identified by their color rather than their chemical composition. For instance, peridot was often misidentified as emerald.
The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus (340–420 A.D.) was one of the first to connect the 12 stones with the 12 months of the year and the 12 zodiac signs. He proposed that each stone’s powers were amplified during its assigned month, laying the groundwork for the belief that specific gemstones hold special significance for individuals born in particular months.
Around the 5th century, the Hindus were developing their own system in India, documented in the text Ratna Pariksha. This text identified nine gems called Navaratna (nine gems in Sanskrit), associated with days of the week, gods, and celestial bodies. The nine gems were: ruby, pearl, coral, emerald, yellow sapphire, diamond, blue sapphire, hessonite, and cat’s eye. It was believed that wearing stones that best fit one’s astrological chart would place the wearer in harmony with the universe and protect against negative cosmic forces.
People around the world started wearing birthstone jewelry around the 8th or 9th centuries, though many of these gems were strictly reserved for royalty. The modern list of birthstones was formalized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America), and this list has remained largely unchanged since then. There are now three recognized sets of birthstones: Ancient (based on the stones of Aaron’s Breastplate and early traditions), Traditional (a blend of ancient and evolving practices), and Modern (the standardized list established by the jewelry industry in 1912).
Despite the formalization of the modern list, alternative and additional gemstones have been incorporated over time. For example, Alexandrite was added to June in 1952, and Spinel was added to August in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association. These additions reflect the ongoing evolution of the birthstone tradition and the recognition of new gemstone discoveries.
The 12 Modern Birthstones by Month
Each of the 12 modern birthstones is associated with a specific month and carries its own unique set of gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and spiritual meanings. Below is a detailed overview of each birthstone, including its primary and alternative gemstone designations, historical background, geological composition, sources, symbolism, and care instructions.
January - Garnet
Primary Birthstone: Garnet
Alternative Stone: None (Garnet is the only modern birthstone for January)
Historical Background: Garnet is one of the oldest known gemstones, with its use dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Its name is derived from the Latin word granatum, meaning "seed," due to its resemblance to the red seeds of a pomegranate. Throughout history, garnet has been worn as a talisman for protection and was believed to ward off evil and disaster. It was also a popular stone among warriors and travelers for its perceived protective qualities.
Gemological Properties: Garnet is a silicate mineral group of several related species of lustrous gemstones, which range from transparent to opaque. It has a reasonably tough Mohs hardness rating of around 7. While the most common color for garnet is red, you can find garnets in almost any color. Blue garnets, the rarest, were discovered in the 1990s. Most garnet species are not rare.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Garnet is often associated with passion, energy, and vitality. It is believed to inspire love and devotion, balance the mind, and provide protection during travel. In many cultures, it is also a stone of commitment and fidelity.
Care and Cleaning: With a hardness of 7, garnet is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, which may damage the stone.
February - Amethyst
Primary Birthstone: Amethyst
Alternative Stone: None (Amethyst is the only modern birthstone for February)
Historical Background: Amethyst has been prized since ancient times, with its name derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not intoxicated." The ancient Greeks believed that amethyst could prevent drunkenness and wore it as an amulet. It was also a favorite stone of royalty and clergy throughout history, symbolizing piety, humility, and spiritual wisdom.
Gemological Properties: Amethyst is a variety of quartz, with a chemical composition of SiO₂. It has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for jewelry. Its color ranges from light lavender to deep purple, caused by trace amounts of iron and other elements. The most valued amethyst exhibits a rich, saturated purple hue with flashes of red and blue.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Amethyst is associated with calmness, clarity, and spiritual awareness. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional balance, and protect against negative energies. In metaphysical practices, it is often used for meditation and to facilitate a connection to higher consciousness.
Care and Cleaning: Amethyst is relatively hard and can be cleaned with warm soapy water. Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight or heat may cause fading, so it should be stored away from direct light.
March - Aquamarine
Primary Birthstone: Aquamarine
Alternative Stone: Bloodstone (Traditional)
Historical Background: The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea), reflecting its beautiful blue-green hues reminiscent of the ocean. Sailors historically wore aquamarine as a talisman for protection and good luck on voyages. It was also believed to ensure a safe passage and calm storms.
Gemological Properties: Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, with a chemical composition of Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆. It has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it an excellent choice for jewelry. Its color ranges from pale blue to deep blue-green, with the most prized specimens exhibiting a vivid, saturated blue. The stone is typically found in large, clean crystals, making it ideal for faceted gems and cabochons.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Aquamarine is associated with courage, communication, and emotional healing. It is believed to soothe stress, enhance clarity, and promote peaceful relationships. In metaphysical traditions, it is linked to the throat chakra and is used to improve self-expression.
Care and Cleaning: Due to its hardness, aquamarine is durable and easy to care for. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they may cause fractures in some stones.
April - Diamond
Primary Birthstone: Diamond
Alternative Stone: None (Diamond is the only modern birthstone for April)
Historical Background: Diamond, composed of pure carbon, is one of the most revered gemstones in history. Its name comes from the Greek word adamas, meaning "invincible," due to its unparalleled hardness. Diamonds have been associated with royalty, power, and eternal love for centuries. The tradition of giving diamond engagement rings became popular in the 20th century, symbolizing unbreakable bonds.
Gemological Properties: Diamond is the hardest known natural material, with a Mohs hardness of 10. It has a high refractive index and strong dispersion, which give it exceptional brilliance and fire. Diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. They are formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Diamond symbolizes purity, clarity, and strength. It is believed to amplify energy, enhance spiritual awareness, and promote abundance. In many cultures, it is also a stone of truth and integrity.
Care and Cleaning: Diamond is extremely durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, a soft brush, or commercial jewelry cleaners. It is resistant to most chemicals, but harsh abrasives should be avoided.
May - Emerald
Primary Birthstone: Emerald
Alternative Stone: None (Emerald is the only modern birthstone for May)
Historical Background: Emerald has been cherished since ancient times, with records of its use in Egypt dating back to 1500 BCE. Cleopatra was famously fond of emeralds, and they were mined in the region of what is now Egypt. The stone’s name comes from the Greek word smaragdos, meaning "green gem." Emeralds were also highly valued by the Incas and other ancient civilizations in South America.
Gemological Properties: Emerald is a variety of beryl, with a chemical composition of Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆. It has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8. Its most prized color is a vivid, saturated green with a slight bluish or yellowish tint, caused by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. Emeralds are known for their inclusions, often referred to as "jardin" (French for garden), which are considered part of the stone’s character.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Emerald is associated with rebirth, love, and prosperity. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional balance, and bring harmony to relationships. In metaphysical practices, it is linked to the heart chakra and is used for healing and spiritual growth.
Care and Cleaning: Due to its inclusions, emerald is more fragile than other beryl varieties. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes. Store separately to prevent scratches.
June - Alexandrite
Primary Birthstone: Alexandrite
Alternative Stone: Pearl (Traditional)
Historical Background: Alexandrite is a relatively modern gemstone, discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the early 1830s. It was named after the future Tsar Alexander II, as its colors (green and red) matched the imperial military colors of Russia. The stone quickly became a symbol of Russian pride and was highly prized by the aristocracy. Its discovery coincided with the decline of the Russian imperial family, adding to its mystique.
Gemological Properties: Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl, with a chemical composition of BeAl₂O₄. It has a Mohs hardness of 8.5, making it extremely durable. Its most remarkable property is its pleochroism, appearing green in daylight and red in incandescent light. This color change is due to the presence of chromium in its crystal structure. The finest alexandrite exhibits a vivid green in daylight and a rich red in artificial light.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Alexandrite is associated with balance, joy, and transformation. It is believed to bring good fortune, enhance creativity, and promote self-confidence. In metaphysical traditions, it is known as a stone of "good omens" and is used to attract success and abundance.
Care and Cleaning: With a hardness of 8.5, alexandrite is very resistant to scratching. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
July - Ruby
Primary Birthstone: Ruby
Alternative Stone: None (Ruby is the only modern birthstone for July)
Historical Background: Ruby, a variety of corundum, is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. Its name comes from the Latin word rubeus, meaning "red." Rubies have been prized for centuries, with the finest specimens historically coming from Myanmar (Burma). They were worn by royalty and warriors as symbols of power and protection. In ancient times, rubies were believed to contain the essence of life and were often placed in the foundations of buildings to ensure prosperity.
Gemological Properties: Ruby is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of chromium, which gives it its red color. It has a Mohs hardness of 9, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond. The most valued rubies exhibit a vivid, pure red with a slight bluish tint, known as "pigeon's blood" red. Rubies are typically found in alluvial deposits and are often heat-treated to enhance their color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Ruby is associated with passion, vitality, and courage. It is believed to stimulate the heart chakra, promote love and commitment, and protect against negative energies. In many cultures, it is also a stone of prosperity and success.
Care and Cleaning: Due to its hardness, ruby is durable and suitable for everyday wear. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has fractures or inclusions.
August - Peridot
Primary Birthstone: Peridot
Alternative Stone: Spinel (Modern Addition), Sardonyx (Traditional)
Historical Background: Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color: olive green. Its name is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." Peridot has been mined for over 3,500 years, with the first records from ancient Egypt. It was believed to have been found in the ashes of volcanoes and was called the "evening emerald" due to its glow in candlelight. Peridot was also highly valued by the ancient Romans and was often used in jewelry and decorative objects.
Gemological Properties: Peridot is a variety of olivine, with a chemical composition of (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it moderately durable. Its color ranges from light yellow-green to deep olive green, with the most prized specimens exhibiting a rich, vibrant green. Peridot is found in volcanic rocks and is often mined in the United States (Arizona), Pakistan, and Myanmar.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Peridot is associated with healing, renewal, and protection. It is believed to ward off evil spirits, promote emotional balance, and attract abundance. In metaphysical practices, it is linked to the heart chakra and is used to release past traumas and foster new beginnings.
Care and Cleaning: Peridot is relatively soft and can be scratched easily. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.
September - Sapphire
Primary Birthstone: Sapphire
Alternative Stone: None (Sapphire is the only modern birthstone for September)
Historical Background: Sapphire, a variety of corundum, has been revered for centuries for its deep blue color. Its name comes from the Latin word sapphirus, meaning "blue stone." Sapphires have been associated with royalty, wisdom, and divine favor. In ancient Persia, it was believed that the sky was painted blue by the reflection of sapphire stones. The most famous sapphire deposit is in Kashmir, India, which produces stones with a velvety, cornflower blue hue.
Gemological Properties: Sapphire is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of iron and titanium, which give it its blue color. It has a Mohs hardness of 9, making it extremely durable. While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires can also be found in pink, yellow, green, and other colors (except red, which is classified as ruby). The most valued blue sapphires exhibit a vivid, medium to dark blue with a slight violet undertone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Sapphire is associated with wisdom, truth, and loyalty. It is believed to enhance mental clarity, promote spiritual insight, and protect against negative energies. In many cultures, it is also a stone of peace and serenity.
Care and Cleaning: Sapphire is very hard and resistant to scratching. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has fractures or inclusions.
October - Tourmaline
Primary Birthstone: Tourmaline
Alternative Stone: Opal (Traditional)
Historical Background: Tourmaline is a complex silicate mineral with a wide range of colors, earning it the nickname "rainbow gemstone." Its name comes from the Sinhalese word turmali, meaning "mixed stones." Tourmaline has been used in jewelry for centuries, but it was often confused with other gemstones like ruby and emerald due to its color variety. It wasn't until the 19th century that tourmaline was recognized as a distinct mineral species.
Gemological Properties: Tourmaline is a group of complex silicate minerals with a general formula of XY₃Z₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH,F)₄. It has a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5. Tourmaline is known for its pleochroism, where it can show different colors when viewed from different angles. It is also piezoelectric, meaning it can generate an electric charge when subjected to pressure. The most famous variety is pink to red tourmaline (rubellite), but it also comes in green, blue, black, and bi-color or tri-color combinations.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Tourmaline is associated with protection, grounding, and emotional healing. It is believed to absorb negative energy and transform it into positive energy. Different colors of tourmaline are associated with different chakras and healing properties. For example, black tourmaline is used for protection, while pink tourmaline is associated with love.
Care and Cleaning: Tourmaline is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as some varieties may be sensitive to heat.
November - Citrine
Primary Birthstone: Citrine
Alternative Stone: Topaz (Traditional)
Historical Background: Citrine, a variety of quartz, has been used since ancient times. Its name comes from the French word citron, meaning "lemon," reflecting its yellow to orange hues. Citrine was often mistaken for topaz in the past, leading to confusion in historical records. It gained popularity in the 19th century and was frequently used in Art Deco jewelry. Today, it is one of the most affordable and widely available gemstones.
Gemological Properties: Citrine is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with trace amounts of iron, which gives it its yellow color. It has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for jewelry. Its color ranges from pale yellow to deep amber or reddish-orange. Most citrine on the market is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz to achieve a more vibrant color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Citrine is associated with prosperity, joy, and positivity. It is believed to attract wealth, enhance creativity, and promote emotional well-being. In metaphysical practices, it is known as the "merchant's stone" and is often placed in cash registers or wallets to attract abundance.
Care and Cleaning: Citrine is hard and easy to care for. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, as it may cause fading in some specimens.
December - Tanzanite
Primary Birthstone: Tanzanite
Alternative Stone: Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli (Traditional)
Historical Background: Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, discovered in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967. It was named after the country of its discovery. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its unique blue-violet color is caused by trace amounts of vanadium. It was popularized by Tiffany & Co. in the 1960s and quickly became a sought-after gemstone for its vibrant color and relative rarity.
Gemological Properties: Tanzanite is a calcium aluminum hydroxyl sorosilicate, with a chemical composition of Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH). It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it moderately durable. Its most distinctive feature is its trichroism, where it can show three different colors: blue, violet, and burgundy, depending on the viewing angle. The most valued tanzanite exhibits a vivid, saturated blue with violet undertones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to enhance psychic abilities, promote calmness, and facilitate communication with higher realms. In metaphysical traditions, it is often used for meditation and to access past-life memories.
Care and Cleaning: Due to its moderate hardness, tanzanite requires careful handling. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, and sudden temperature changes, as they may cause fractures. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The 12 birthstones by month represent a rich tapestry of geological wonder, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. From the ancient protective talismans of Aaron's Breastplate to the modern standardized list formalized in 1912, each gemstone carries a unique story. Whether it is the fiery passion of ruby, the serene clarity of aquamarine, or the transformative energy of tanzanite, birthstones offer a personal connection to the natural world and human history. As the tradition continues to evolve with new discoveries and cultural interpretations, these gemstones remain enduring symbols of beauty, meaning, and identity. For gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, understanding the properties and lore of each birthstone enriches the appreciation of these remarkable gifts from the Earth.