Birthstones by Month: Meaning and Significance
Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month of the year, believed to bring good luck and special properties to those born in that month. This tradition dates back to ancient times and has evolved across different cultures.
The 12 Birthstones
January - Garnet
Color: Deep red to burgundy Meaning: Protection, strength, and vitality
Garnet is believed to protect travelers and bring success. Its rich red color symbolizes passion and energy, making it perfect for starting the new year.
February - Amethyst
Color: Purple to violet Meaning: Peace, courage, and stability
Amethyst is associated with clarity of mind and inner strength. Ancient Greeks believed it could prevent intoxication and promote clear thinking.
March - Aquamarine
Color: Light blue to sea green Meaning: Tranquility, courage, and communication
Named after seawater, aquamarine was believed to protect sailors and guarantee safe voyages. It symbolizes calmness and clarity.
April - Diamond
Color: Clear (but can be various colors) Meaning: Eternal love, strength, and purity
The hardest natural substance on Earth, diamonds symbolize unbreakable bonds and everlasting love. They represent clarity and invincibility.
May - Emerald
Color: Rich green Meaning: Rebirth, love, and fertility
Emeralds have been treasured since ancient Egypt. Cleopatra was known for her love of emeralds. They symbolize spring, renewal, and growth.
June - Pearl (or Alexandrite)
Color: White, cream, or iridescent Meaning: Purity, wisdom, and integrity
Pearls are unique as they’re created by living organisms. They symbolize innocence and have been associated with the moon and water throughout history.
July - Ruby
Color: Deep red Meaning: Passion, protection, and prosperity
Known as the “king of gems,” rubies symbolize love, courage, and vitality. They were believed to protect warriors in battle.
August - Peridot
Color: Olive to lime green Meaning: Strength, healing, and protection
Peridot is called the “evening emerald” because it doesn’t darken in low light. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun.”
September - Sapphire
Color: Blue (but comes in many colors) Meaning: Wisdom, loyalty, and nobility
Sapphires have been associated with royalty and romance. They symbolize truth, sincerity, and faithfulness.
October - Opal (or Tourmaline)
Color: Multicolored, iridescent Meaning: Hope, creativity, and inspiration
Opals display a unique play of colors and are believed to enhance creativity and originality. Each opal is truly one of a kind.
November - Topaz (or Citrine)
Color: Golden yellow to orange Meaning: Friendship, strength, and abundance
Topaz is believed to bring joy and generosity. The warm golden tones are associated with the harvest season and gratitude.
December - Turquoise (or Tanzanite)
Color: Blue-green Meaning: Success, prosperity, and good fortune
Turquoise has been valued for thousands of years across many cultures. It’s believed to bring protection and good luck to its wearer.
Modern vs Traditional Birthstones
The modern list of birthstones was standardized in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Association. Some months have multiple birthstones to provide more affordable or varied options.
Birthstones and Personal Identity
Just as zodiac signs and Chinese zodiac animals connect to birth dates, birthstones offer another way to celebrate your birth month. Many people wear their birthstone as jewelry for good luck or personal significance.
Use our Age Calculator to explore more fascinating connections between birth dates and cultural traditions.