BIRTHSTONE BY MONTH - A COMPLETE GUIDE

OVERVIEW

What Are Birthstones? Meaning, History, and Their Symbolism

Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month of the year, believed to bring good fortune, protection, and positive energy to those born during that month. The concept dates back thousands of years and is often linked to ancient civilizations that believed gemstones held mystical powers.

One of the earliest references to birthstones appears in biblical texts describing twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes. Over time, these stones became associated with the twelve months of the year. As cultures evolved, so did the interpretations, leading to the development of both traditional and modern birthstone lists.

Today, birthstones are valued not only for their symbolism but also for their beauty and versatility. Each stone carries unique meanings—some represent love and passion, while others symbolize wisdom, calm, or protection. This rich symbolism is often summarized in a gemstones meaning chart, helping buyers connect emotionally with their chosen stone.

Difference

Traditional vs Modern Birthstones

Birthstone Chart: Traditional and Modern Birthstones by Month

Month	Traditional Birthstone	Modern Birthstone(s)	Common Colors
January	Garnet	Garnet	Red, Green, Orange
February	Amethyst	Amethyst	Purple
March	Bloodstone	Aquamarine	Light Blue, Green
April	Diamond	Diamond	Colorless
May	Emerald	Emerald	Green
June	Pearl	Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone	White, Color-Change, Milky
July	Ruby	Ruby	Red
August	Sardonyx	Peridot, Spinel	Green, Pink, Red
September	Sapphire	Sapphire	Blue, Multi-Color
October	Opal	Opal, Tourmaline	Multicolor, Pink, Green
November	Topaz	Topaz, Citrine	Yellow, Orange
December	Turquoise	Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon	Blue, Violet, Blue-Green

Traditional Birthstone Chart

The traditional birthstone chart has roots in ancient customs and early gem lore. These stones were selected based on rarity, availability, and symbolic associations rather than modern marketing or supply considerations. Traditional stones often carry deeper historical significance.

Modern Birthstone Chart

Modern birthstones were standardized in the 20th century to reflect gemstone availability and consumer preferences. Some months now feature multiple stones, giving buyers flexibility in color, price, and style. This evolution allows more people to enjoy birthstones gems that suit their taste and lifestyle.

Birthstones

What Are the Birthstones for Every Month of the Year?

Birthstones are gemstones traditionally associated with each month of the year, believed to carry unique meanings, symbolism, and historical significance. From garnet in January to turquoise in December, each birthstone reflects distinctive colors and qualities that make it special for personal jewelry and meaningful gifting.

1. January – Garnet

Garnet is the January birthstone, recognized for its deep red hue and rich, classic appeal. Symbolizing protection, strength, and friendship, garnet has long been worn as a talisman—often gifted to represent trust and lasting bonds. Many people love garnet for its warm glow that looks striking in both silver and gold settings, making it easy to style for everyday wear or special occasions. While red is the most common color, garnets can also appear in green, orange, and purple shades, giving this month’s gem more variety than most shoppers expect.

2. February – Amethyst

Amethyst, the February birthstone, is cherished for its purple color and calming energy. Historically associated with clarity and balance, amethyst is believed to promote peace of mind and emotional stability—making it a popular choice for those who appreciate meaning with beauty. Its regal shade ranges from soft lilac to deep violet, which pairs beautifully with both modern and vintage jewelry designs. Across cultures, amethyst has been worn as a symbol of inner strength and thoughtful expression, which is why it remains a timeless gemstone for rings, pendants, and earrings.

3. March Birthstone – Aquamarine

Aquamarine represents March and is admired for its serene blue tones reminiscent of the sea. Known as the stone of calm and courage, aquamarine has been associated with clarity, harmony, and emotional balance—qualities that make it especially meaningful for gifting. Its airy, light-blue color flatters every skin tone and looks elegant in minimalist settings as well as more detailed halo designs. If you’ve ever wondered what stone is March birthstone, aquamarine is the answer, offering both elegance and symbolism in one beautiful gemstone that’s easy to wear year-round.

4. April – Diamond

Diamond is the April birthstone, symbolizing strength, purity, and eternal love. Its unmatched hardness and brilliance make it one of the most desired gemstones in the world, celebrated for the way it catches light from every angle. Diamonds are often chosen for engagement rings, representing lasting commitment, but they also shine in everyday jewelry like studs, pendants, and delicate stackable bands. Because diamonds blend effortlessly with every metal tone and style, they are a natural choice for building a signature jewelry wardrobe that feels both classic and personal.

5. May – Emerald

Emerald , the May birthstone, is celebrated for its rich green color and unmistakable luxury. Associated with renewal, growth, and wisdom, emeralds have been treasured since ancient times, often linked with elegance and prosperity. Their vibrant hue makes them a standout choice in fine jewelry, especially when paired with diamonds for extra contrast and brilliance. Many shoppers love emerald for its bold color statement—refined enough for formal looks, yet striking enough to elevate simple everyday outfits with a touch of regal charm.

6. Birth Stones for June – Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone

June is unique, offering three birthstones that suit different styles and budgets, which is why it remains one of the most versatile months.

• Pearl, known for its classic elegance and soft luster, symbolizes purity and grace, often chosen for timeless jewelry that never feels out of place.
• Alexandrite, prized for its rare color-changing ability, is admired for its “two-in-one” beauty—often shifting between greenish and reddish tones depending on light.
• Moonstone, admired for its ethereal glow, is loved for its dreamy sheen that adds a mystical, feminine touch to jewelry.

If you’re asking what is June’s birthstone or what is the birthstone for June, the answer depends on personal style and preference—whether you love classic refinement, rare gemstone magic, or soft glowing romance.

7. July Birthstones – Ruby

Ruby represents July and is known for its vivid red color that instantly commands attention. Symbolizing love, passion, and vitality, rubies have long been associated with royalty and power, making them a favorite for statement jewelry that feels bold yet elegant. The best rubies show a rich, lively red that looks stunning in yellow gold for warmth or white metals for sharp contrast. July birthstones are ideal for meaningful gifting, especially for celebrating love, confidence, and milestone moments that deserve a gemstone with presence.

8. August Birthstone – Peridot

Peridot is the August birthstone, recognized for its fresh green color and bright, uplifting appearance. It symbolizes strength, positivity, and protection, often chosen by those who love gemstones with a cheerful, modern feel. Peridot’s yellow-green tone looks especially vibrant in gold settings and pairs beautifully with other warm stones for stacked or layered jewelry looks. For those asking what is the birthstone in August, peridot stands out with its vibrant, lively energy—perfect for everyday pieces that feel light, colorful, and effortless.

9. September Birthstone – Sapphire

Sapphire is the September birthstone and is traditionally blue, though it comes in many colors, including pink, yellow, and even green. It represents wisdom, loyalty, and integrity, which is why sapphire jewelry is often chosen to symbolize devotion and trust. With excellent durability, sapphire is ideal for daily-wear rings and bracelets, while its rich color makes it equally suited for elegant evening styles. If you’re curious what is the birthstone for September, sapphire is known for both durability and timeless appeal—classic enough to cherish forever and versatile enough to style every day.

10. October Birthstone – Opal and Tourmaline

October offers two beautiful options that bring creativity and color into birthstone jewelry.

• Opal , famous for its play-of-color, displays flashes of rainbow-like hues that make every stone feel one-of-a-kind—perfect for those who love standout jewelry.
• Tourmaline, available in a wide range of hues, is loved for its variety, from pink and green to deep multi-tones, offering something for every style.

If you’re wondering what is October’s birthstone or what’s October birthstone, both stones provide unique color and personality—whether you prefer opal’s dreamy shimmer or tourmaline’s vibrant range and versatility.

11. November Birthstone – Topaz and Citrine

November birthstones include two warm, radiant gemstones that feel bright and joyful

• Topaz, known for clarity and strength, comes in several colors, but golden and blue tones are especially popular for everyday jewelry.
• Citrine, admired for its warm golden tones, is loved for its sunny look that pairs beautifully with autumn and winter wardrobes.

The November birthstone selection symbolizes abundance, joy, and confidence, making these stones a meaningful choice for gifting and personal jewelry—especially for those who prefer warm tones that feel welcoming and luminous.

12. December Birthstone – Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon

December has three birthstones, each offering a distinct look and meaning—perfect for different jewelry styles.

• Turquoise, valued for its calming blue-green shade, is one of the oldest cherished gemstones and remains a favorite for boho-chic and classic designs.
• Tanzanite, a rare gemstone with violet-blue hues, is admired for its rich color and modern luxury appeal.
• Zircon, offering brilliance and sparkle, is known for its bright shine and beautiful range of blues and neutrals.

For those asking what is December’s birthstone, these stones provide diverse styles and meanings—whether you want timeless tradition, rare elegance, or high-shine brilliance in one meaningful gemstone.

Birthstone Colors

What Are the Colors of the Birthstones?

One of the most common questions is what are the colors of the birthstones. Birthstone colors range from deep reds and rich blues to soft pastels and vibrant greens. Some stones, like sapphire and tourmaline, appear in multiple colors, while others, like ruby, are known for a signature hue. The variety allows individuals to choose stones that reflect personal taste while still honoring their birth month.

Symbolism

Gemstones Meaning Chart: Birthstone Symbolism at a Glance

Month	Birthstone(s)	Symbolic Meaning	What It Represents
January	Garnet	Protection, Strength	Stability, Friendship, Grounding Energy
February	Amethyst	Calm, Clarity	Peace of Mind, Balance, Emotional Strength
March	Aquamarine	Serenity, Courage	Calm Communication, Inner Harmony
April	Diamond	Purity, Strength	Eternal Love, Resilience, Commitment
May	Emerald	Growth, Renewal	Wisdom, Prosperity, Emotional Balance
June	Pearl	Purity, Grace	Timeless Elegance, Sincerity
June	Alexandrite	Transformation	Adaptability, Creativity, Good Fortune
June	Moonstone	Intuition	Emotional Balance, New Beginnings
July	Ruby	Passion, Vitality	Love, Confidence, Inner Fire
August	Peridot	Protection	Positivity, Strength, Emotional Clarity
September	Sapphire	Wisdom, Loyalty	Truth, Faithfulness, Mental Focus
October	Opal	Creativity	Inspiration, Individuality, Imagination
October	Tourmaline	Balance	Emotional Healing, Positive Energy
November	Topaz	Abundance	Strength, Clarity, Success
November	Citrine	Joy, Optimism	Confidence, Prosperity, Warmth
December	Turquoise	Protection	Healing, Tranquility, Good Fortune
December	Tanzanite	Transformation	Spiritual Growth, Insight
December	Zircon	Clarity	Wisdom, Balance, Grounding Energy

Selection

How to Choose the Right Birthstone Jewelry

Choosing birthstone jewelry involves more than selecting the correct stone. Consider:

• Personal style and color preference
• Traditional vs modern birthstones
• Jewelry type—rings, necklaces, bracelets, or earrings
• Metal pairing for durability and aesthetics

Birthstones gems allow you to create jewelry that feels personal and meaningful.

Personalized

Birthstones as Personalized Gifts

Birthstone jewelry is a popular choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones. Selecting a piece based on birthstones by birthday adds emotional depth, making the gift both thoughtful and memorable.

Expressive

Celebrate Your Story with Birthstones

Birthstones by month offer a timeless way to celebrate individuality, milestones, and meaningful moments. From understanding traditional and modern charts to exploring colors and symbolism, birthstones help transform jewelry into personal expressions of identity. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or vibrant modern styles, birthstone jewelry allows you to carry your story with you—beautifully and meaningfully.