Young or old, male or female—there’s one thing we all share: everyone has a birthstone!
For centuries, birthstones—precious stones associated with each month of the year—have fascinated people across the globe. These vibrant gems are thought to possess qualities that can influence the lives of those who wear them. Let's take a journey through all twelve months, exploring the rich history, enduring myths, and potential benefits of each birthstone. Whether you're drawn to the lore, the personal significance, or the sheer beauty of these gems, they offer a special connection to the world around us, making them a meaningful gift for yourself or a loved one.
But where do birthstones originate, and why are they so special? These precious gems have roots in ancient traditions that span cultures, from the Egyptians to the Romans. They were once believed to hold mystical powers, capable of warding off evil spirits or bestowing good fortune. While science might not back these claims, birthstones continue to captivate us today with their stunning colors and symbolic significance.
Whether you celebrate in the warmth of August or in the cold of January, each month has its unique gem, rich in history and deeper meaning than you might imagine. What’s your birthstone? If you’re looking to purchase a birthstone or find the one that suits you best, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to discover the fascinating history and mysteries behind these dazzling gems.
January - Garnet
For those born in January, garnet is the traditional birthstone. The name garnet comes from the Latin word "granatus," which means "seed-like," referring to the red hue of pomegranate seeds. The stone garnet symbolizes friendship, trust, and protection. Garnets are among the oldest known gemstones, dating back to prehistoric times. The stone was believed to protect travelers from evil spirits and to bring good luck. In ancient Rome, garnets were used to ward off nightmares and to promote healing.
Garnets are found worldwide, but most come from Africa, India, and South America. Garnets are said to enhance vitality, energy, and passion. They are also believed to stimulate circulation and boost metabolism.
February - Amethyst
The birthstone of February is Amethyst, a royal purple colored gemstone. Amethyst is derived from the Greek word Amethystos which means ‘not drunk’ or ‘a remedy against drunkenness’. Amethyst has been associated with peace, tranquility, and sobriety since ancient times. This stone is said to promote calmness, reduce stress, and enhance spiritual awareness. It is also believed to aid in meditation and dream interpretation.
Amethyst’s regal purple color has made it a favorite for centuries, once adorning the crowns of royalty. Amethyst can be found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia, making it a gemstone as widely loved as beautiful.
March - Aquamarine
Aquamarine, the birthstone of March, is derived from the Latin word "seawater." This stone is known as the stone of courage and is believed to calm fears and clear the mind. With its cool blue-green hues, it has been associated with the sea and sailors for centuries. It was believed to protect sailors from drowning and to calm their fears. In ancient Rome, aquamarine was used to treat eye diseases and to promote marital harmony.
Aquamarine is said to promote peace, tranquility, and courage. It is also believed to enhance communication and self-expression and promotes inner peace and tranquility. This gem is primarily found in Brazil and Madagascar but can also be found in Pakistan, China, and Russia.
April – Diamond
Diamonds, Forever and Always– A girl’s best friend!
April shines with the Diamond, when we think of the Diamond, we think of timeless beauty, strength, and commitment. It’s no surprise that diamonds symbolize eternal love. They’re the hardest natural materials and have been prized for their beauty and durability for centuries. Diamonds are said to enhance love, commitment, and self-esteem.
Diamond clears the mind, helps with dizziness and vertigo, and detoxifies the body. Diamonds have been prized for thousands of years and are sourced from places like South Africa, Canada, and Russia. If you’re an April baby, you get the most iconic gemstone of all! Diamond is also the gem that marks the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries.
May - Emerald
May boasts the rich green of the emerald, a symbol of fertility, rebirth, and renewal. The ancient Egyptians revered emeralds as a symbol of eternal life, while in Roman times, they were linked to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. One of the most famous emerald enthusiasts was Cleopatra.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, emeralds are said to banish negativity and attract harmony, balance, and beauty. Additionally, emeralds are thought to strengthen memory and promote fertility, offering protection to women during childbirth. Renowned for their vivid color, emeralds are believed to bring the wearer clarity, insight, and a deep connection with nature. Today, most emeralds originate from Colombia and Zambia, their green hues mirroring the lushness of the natural world.
June - Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite
June's born are spoiled for choice with a trio of gems: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite. Pearls, the only gem made by a living organism, symbolize purity and innocence and have been worn for centuries as a sign of elegance. Moonstone, with its celestial glow, is said to bring good luck and promote balance. Then there’s Alexandrite, a rare gem that changes color depending on the light—perfect for those who embrace adaptability and creativity.
Pearls have been prized for their beauty and rarity since ancient times. Pearls are said to promote calmness, peace, and wisdom. They are believed to enhance intuition, self-esteem, and emotional healing. Pearls come from oceans, while moonstone and alexandrite can be found in Sri Lanka, India, and Brazil.
July - Ruby
The name 'Ruby' is derived from the Latin word ‘ruber’, meaning red. With its intense red hue, the Ruby is often hailed as the "king of gems." Representing passion, love, and energy, this vibrant gemstone has captivated hearts for centuries. Rubies are believed to embody vitality and have long been associated with courage and success. In ancient times, they were thought to protect wearers from evil.
As July’s birthstone, it is one of the rarest and most valuable gems in the world. Rubies are also second only to diamonds in hardness, making them durable enough for daily wear. Their deep, vivid red complements any fashionable outfit.
The most prized color of a ruby is often referred to as "pigeon blood red." Historically, this gem has been set in royal jewelry, believed to protect against misfortune, heartbreak, and ill health. Known for their fiery allure, rubies are predominantly sourced from Myanmar, Thailand, and Mozambique.
August - Peridot
August glows with the lime-green hue of peridot, a gemstone symbolizing strength and healing. The ancient Egyptians were the first to discover peridot, calling it the "gem of the sun" and believing it protected against nightmares.
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with healing and magical powers. It has been believed to protect its wearers from evil spirits, promote healing, and bring prosperity and good fortune. In modern times, peridot is still considered a stone of healing, often used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.
Most peridot is sourced from Arizona and Pakistan, where its vibrant color is said to foster strength and courage. Worn for its beauty, peridot continues to captivate people with its unique charm and healing potential.
September - Sapphire
If you're a September-born, you’ve got Sapphire on your side, a gem known for its deep, mesmerizing blues. Sapphire is a stone available in every color except red, each with its properties, often called Fancy Sapphires, with blue being the most well-known color. Sapphire has been worn by kings and queens for centuries. In ancient Persia, it was believed that the sky was blue because of the reflection of sapphire stones.
Sapphires have been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and truth for centuries. They were believed to protect their wearers from evil. They are also believed to enhance spiritual growth, inner peace, and self-expression. Sapphires are mainly found in Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, and Kashmir.
October - Opal, Tourmaline
October presents Opal and Tourmaline. Opal, with its iridescent hues, symbolizes hope and creativity. Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors, believed to aid in understanding oneself and others.
Opals have been associated with hope, purity, and innocence for centuries. They were believed to protect their wearers from evil and to promote good fortune. They are also believed to enhance creativity, imagination, and emotional healing.
Opals are famous for their kaleidoscope of colors, with a shimmering iridescence that has captivated people for centuries. Often called the "stone of hope," opal is said to inspire creativity and bring out hidden talents. Tourmaline, available in an array of colors, is believed to promote understanding and compassion. This October birthstone can be found in numerous parts of the world, including Mexico, Brazil, Central Europe, Indonesia, Peru, Turkey and the US.
November - Topaz, Citrine
November brings warmth with Topaz and Citrine, both associated with positivity and abundance. Topaz comes in shades from golden yellow to cool blue, symbolizing love, clarity, and strength. Citrine’s sunny yellow glow makes it the perfect gem for those who want to attract success, prosperity, and confidence. Mined in Brazil, Mexico and Madagascar, these stones brighten up the colder months with their warm hues.
Citrine with its sunny yellow glow, has been associated with abundance, prosperity, and happiness for centuries. It was believed to protect its wearers from negative energy and to promote success. It is also believed to enhance creativity, self-esteem, and energy.
December - Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon
December is all about variety, offering Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. Turquoise has been revered for centuries by Native Americans for its healing powers and protective qualities. It is also believed to enhance communication, creativity, and emotional balance. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was often used in jewelry and amulets.
Tanzanite, with its deep blue-violet shades, is a relatively new gem, only discovered in Tanzania in 1967, but it's prized for its spiritual benefits. It is often referred to as a “velvety” stone owing to its deep and saturated color.
Zircon, available in a range of colors, is believed to promote wisdom and protection. All three gems are perfect for those looking for stones that combine beauty with meaning. Zircons can be found in abundance in countries like Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of gemstones and their cultural significance. Whether you believe in their unique properties or simply appreciate their beauty, there's no denying that birthstones have captured the human imagination for centuries.
